Medical School Application Timeline: What to Expect?

Hey everyone! I'm currently a junior interested in pursuing a medical career. Can anyone give me an overview of the medical school application timeline? I want to be prepared for what's ahead if I decide to go down this path. Thanks!

Hello! It's great that you're planning ahead for your medical career. I can certainly give you a general overview of the medical school application timeline. Keep in mind that each school might have slight variations in their process or deadlines, though, so always double-check with the specific programs you're interested in.

1. Spring/Summer of Junior Year: Begin preparing for the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) if you haven't already. Many students take the MCAT in the spring or summer of their junior year to give themselves ample time to retake the exam if needed.

2. May-June: Register for AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service), which is the primary application service used by many medical schools. Start gathering information, such as your transcripts and details about your extracurricular activities, as you'll need these for your application.

3. Late Spring/Early Summer: Take the MCAT, and plan for a retake if needed. Aim to have your scores available as early in the summer as possible, though, so medical schools can review them during the application season.

4. June-August: Complete and submit your primary application through AMCAS, including your MCAT scores, personal statement, transcripts, and information on your extracurricular activities. The primary application is typically due between early June and early August, depending on the specific medical school.

5. July-October: If a medical school is interested in your application, they will invite you to complete a secondary application, which typically consists of additional essays and information about your experiences. Complete and submit secondary applications within two weeks of receiving the invitation, if possible.

6. August-April: Medical schools will review applications and invite selected candidates for interviews. Interviews generally begin in late August or early September and can continue until April. Be prepared for interviews to be either in-person, virtual, or a mix of both.

7. October-May: Schools begin sending out acceptance offers on a rolling basis. Some schools participate in the AAMC's "traffic rules," which means they will release decisions on specific dates in the cycle. Stay up to date on your chosen schools' timelines, though, and be patient, as the process can vary.

8. April 30: If you have received multiple acceptances by this date, you must choose one school and withdraw from any others you have been accepted to, in accordance with the AAMC's multiple acceptance resolution policy. This allows waitlisted applicants the opportunity to receive offers from their chosen schools.

9. May-August: Some applicants may be taken off waitlists and offered acceptances during this time. Continue to stay in contact with the medical schools to express your continued interest in their program.

10. August/September: Begin medical school!

This timeline is intended to give you a general idea of what to expect, but always consult with the medical schools you're interested in for specific deadlines and policies. Good luck on your journey toward a medical career!