Choosing a premed major can feel like a high-stakes decision. Should you take the traditional route with a science-heavy major, or can you succeed with something less conventional? The good news is that medical schools will accept students from a variety of academic backgrounds. While a science major can provide a solid foundation, what really matters is your GPA, MCAT score, and completion of prerequisite coursework. Here, we will break down the best majors for medical school, highlight key AAMC admissions data, and help you find a balance between passion and practicality when selecting your major.
Do You Need a Science Major for Medical School?
Absolutely not! Medical schools welcome students from all disciplines. While many applicants major in biology or chemistry, others come from backgrounds in humanities, social sciences, or even engineering.
Medical schools value well-rounded applicants. Choosing a premed college major you genuinely enjoy can actually work in your favor. Students who are passionate about their field tend to perform better academically.
No matter what you major in, you’ll need to complete the required premed coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
Further Reading
What the Data Says: Medical School Applicants by Major
According to 2024 AAMC data, medical school applicants come from a wide range of majors. Here’s a look at how different fields measure up.
Biological Sciences
By far the most common major among applicants (30,202 students), but their average MCAT score (506.2) and GPA (3.66) are slightly lower than some other groups. This suggests that while biology is a popular choice, competition is fierce, and students in this major may need to work harder to stand out.
Humanities
A much smaller group (1,483 students), but they perform surprisingly well, with an average MCAT of 508.9 and GPA of 3.68. This indicates that students from humanities backgrounds, despite being less common, are often strong candidates.
Math and Statistics
The highest-performing group academically, with an average MCAT of 511.4 and GPA of 3.71, though only 321 students applied from this category. This suggests that analytical skills gained from these majors may translate well to both the MCAT and medical school rigor.
Physical Sciences
Competitive scores with an average MCAT of 509.3 and GPA of 3.68, showing that these majors provide a solid foundation for medical school success.
Other Majors for Medical School Applicants
A mix of various disciplines, with 8,726 applicants averaging an MCAT of 505 and GPA of 3.65. While this category varies widely, students who take unique academic paths can still be successful if they maintain strong metrics.
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The Best Majors for Medical School: Traditional vs. Non-Traditional
Traditional Science Premed Majors
Majoring in a science field can make it easier to complete premed requirements and prepare you to take the MCAT. These options include biology, chemistry, physics, and biochemistry. Some cons to consider for traditional science majors are that they are more competitive, and common, so it is harder to stand out with this major. Also, it may limit exploration of other academic interests as you will focus early and entirely on sciences.
Non-Traditional Sciences Premed Major
Some students take a less conventional path and still get into medical school. These majors include social sciences (psychology, sociology, and economics), humanities (English, philosophy, and history), mathematics, and engineering. These can make you a unique applicant, and you will develop strong communication and critical thinking skills (hello CARS section of the MCAT!). However, these college premed majors may make it more difficult for you to fit in science prerequisite courses. You might require more preparation for the MCAT’s science-heavy sections.
How to Choose the Right College Premed Major for You
- Pick something you enjoy: A major you are interested in will keep you motivated and engaged. It can also make you a stronger, more unique applicant.
- Prioritize GPA: A high GPA is crucial for medical school applications, regardless of your major.
- Complete the prerequisites: Make sure that you can fit these courses into whichever major you select.
- Think about the MCAT: Certain undergrad majors naturally align with the MCAT, but all students need to prepare effectively.
Conclusion
There is no “perfect” or best major for medical school. The best choice is the one that excites you, allows you to maintain a strong GPA, and helps you fulfill your premed requirements. Whether you go the traditional science approach or pursue a non-science field, your success will come down to academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and a genuine passion to pursue medicine.
And remember, regardless of your major, you’ll still need to take the MCAT. Whether you need the flexibility of a Self-Paced Course, the instruction of a Live Course, or the 1:1 attention of a private MCAT tutor, Blueprint MCAT has the MCAT prep option that works for your learning style!
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