BS/MD Admission Requirements

Build a competitive profile for the most selective programs in medicine

Academic Excellence Standards

The foundation of every successful BS/MD application

📚 Academic Requirements

  • GPA: Unweighted 3.9+ (typically 4.0)
  • Class Rank: Top 5-10% of graduating class
  • Course Rigor: Most challenging curriculum available
  • AP/IB Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics (all three)
  • AP Math: Calculus BC strongly preferred
  • English/Writing: AP Language and/or Literature
  • Foreign Language: 3-4 years recommended

📊 Standardized Test Scores

  • SAT Score: 1500+ (99th percentile)
  • SAT Breakdown: 750+ EBRW, 770+ Math
  • ACT Alternative: 34+ composite
  • SAT Subject Tests: No longer required
  • AP Scores: Multiple 5s expected
  • PSAT: National Merit helps significantly
  • Super-scoring: Often accepted

Typical Score Requirements by Program Type

Program Tier SAT Range GPA Range Acceptance Rate Examples
Ultra-Competitive 1550-1600 3.95-4.0 1-3% Brown PLME, Rochester REMS
Highly Competitive 1520-1570 3.9-4.0 3-5% Case Western PPSP, Baylor²
Competitive 1480-1530 3.85-4.0 5-8% Penn State/Jefferson, VCU
Moderately Competitive 1450-1500 3.8-4.0 8-12% UMKC, Temple

Medical Experience Requirements

Demonstrate your commitment to medicine through meaningful experiences

🏥

Clinical Volunteering

Direct patient interaction in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes

200+ hours
👨‍⚕️

Physician Shadowing

Observe multiple specialties to understand daily practice

50-100 hours
🔬

Research Experience

University labs, summer programs, science fairs

200+ hours
🚑

EMT Certification

Hands-on patient care experience (highly valued)

6-month program
🤝

Community Service

Non-medical volunteering showing commitment to service

100+ hours
🏆

Leadership Roles

Club president, team captain, founder of initiatives

2+ positions

Building Your Profile: Grade-by-Grade

9th Grade

Foundation Year

  • Excel in all courses (especially sciences)
  • Begin hospital volunteering
  • Join HOSA or science clubs
  • Start building relationships with teachers

10th Grade

Acceleration

  • Take AP Biology and Chemistry
  • Begin physician shadowing
  • Pursue leadership positions
  • Start SAT preparation

Summer Before 11th

Intensive Period

  • Research internship or summer program
  • EMT certification course
  • Intensive SAT preparation
  • Continue clinical activities

11th Grade

Peak Performance

  • Take SAT (aim for 1500+)
  • AP Physics and Calc BC
  • Continue all medical activities
  • Research BS/MD programs

Summer Before 12th

Application Prep

  • Write application essays
  • Request recommendation letters
  • Visit campuses if possible
  • Final SAT attempt if needed

12th Grade Fall

Application Season

  • Submit applications (Nov-Dec deadlines)
  • Prepare for interviews
  • Maintain strong grades
  • Continue activities

Application Components

📝 Essays & Personal Statements

  • Why Medicine: Compelling personal narrative
  • Why This Program: Specific program knowledge
  • Why Now: Readiness for early commitment
  • Diversity Statement: Unique contributions
  • Challenge Essay: Overcoming adversity
  • Activity Descriptions: Impact and reflection

📋 Letters of Recommendation

  • Science Teachers: 2 letters (Bio/Chem/Physics)
  • Humanities Teacher: 1 letter for balance
  • Physician Letter: From shadowing experience
  • Research Mentor: If applicable
  • Counselor Letter: Overall endorsement
  • Additional: Volunteer coordinator or coach

🎯 Interview Preparation

  • Format: Traditional or MMI (Multiple Mini Interview)
  • Topics: Motivation, ethics, healthcare issues
  • Preparation: Mock interviews essential
  • Appearance: Professional attire required
  • Questions: Why medicine at 18?
  • Research: Know the program thoroughly

✅ Additional Requirements

  • Casper Test: Required by some programs
  • Background Check: Criminal history review
  • Health Records: Immunizations current
  • Citizenship: Some require US citizen/permanent resident
  • State Residency: Some programs have restrictions
  • Age: Must be 18 by matriculation

🎯 Pro Tips for Building a Competitive Profile