Applying to medical school takes a *lot* of work. The number of paths and prerequisites can be truly overwhelming, especially because they can differ from school to school. However, there are several universal premed requirements that every future medical student should be aware of.
In this blog, we will go through these requirements and also highlight some examples from different medical schools to paint a clear picture for you!
Premed Requirements for Medical School
1. Undergraduate Education
A bachelor’s degree is a non-negotiable premed requirement for medical school. While most premed students choose majors in biology, chemistry, or other sciences, it’s important to note that no specific major is required. What matters most is completing the necessary medical school prerequisite coursework and demonstrating academic excellence. Sometimes this is more straightforward when you are in a science major, but choosing something that truly interests you will go far.
GPA
Medical schools generally look for strong academic performance. A competitive premed GPA is often 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. The average GPA for medical school varies by school.
Prerequisite Courses
While exact requirements vary, most medical schools require the following coursework:
- Biology with lab
- General chemistry with lab
- Organic chemistry with lab
- Physics with lab
- Biochemistry
- Mathematics (calculus and/or statistics)
- English or writing-intensive courses
Make sure you’re on track to complete all your premedical prerequisites by checking what your school lists in the Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR).
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2. The MCAT
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a critical component of your medical school application. This standardized exam assesses your knowledge of natural sciences, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Most schools require an MCAT score within the past three years, though some accept older scores.
3. Clinical Experience
Hands-on experience in a clinical setting is vital to demonstrate your commitment to medicine. Schools want to see that you understand the realities of patient care and have interacted with patients and healthcare professionals. There are lots of ways to get clinical experience, but here are some ideas:
- Volunteering at hospitals or clinics
- Shadowing physicians
- Working as a medical scribe, EMT, or certified nursing assistant (CNA)
Further Reading
📝 A Guide to Medical Scribing for Pre-Med Students
👥 The Premed’s Complete Guide to Shadowing
🥼 How to Make Your Experiences As a Premed Count for Your Medical School Application
4. Research Experience
Research experience, while not always a premed requirement, is highly valued by many medical schools, particularly those with a strong emphasis on academic medicine or biomedical research. Participating in a research project shows your ability to contribute to scientific inquiry and critical thinking, and indicates your commitment to contributing to the scientific community. Here are some ways to get involved with research:
- Joining a lab at your undergraduate institution
- Completing a summer research internship
- Presenting findings at conferences or co-authoring papers
5. Extracurricular Activities and Leadership
Medical schools look for well-rounded applicants with diverse experiences outside the classroom. Leadership roles in student organizations, community service, and extracurricular activities show you can balance multiple commitments and make a positive impact. This doesn’t have to be anything crazy. Try to get involved at a deeper level in something that really interests you, rather than holding memberships in a bunch of different clubs that you rarely interact with. Some examples are leading a premed club, organizing a community health fair, or rallying a group to volunteer for a nonprofit organization.
6. Letters of Recommendation
Strong letters of recommendation are mandatory for your application. These should come from individuals who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential as a future physician. Typically, you’ll need:
- Two letters from science faculty
- One letter from a non-science faculty member
- Additional letters from clinical or research supervisors (optional but recommended)
- You can also include a letter from someone who has worked with you clinically, like a nurse manager at a hospital or a doctor you shadowed extensively with
7. Personal Statement
Your medical school personal statement is your opportunity to tell your story and explain why you want to pursue medicine. This essay should highlight your motivations, experiences, and goals. A compelling personal statement is honest, reflective, and free of clichés. It should answer key questions like:
- Why do you want to be a doctor?
- How have your experiences shaped your decision?
- What unique qualities do you bring to the field of medicine?
Examples of Premed Requirements
Requirements at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine
UCSD’s School of Medicine is a highly regarded program with specific requirements that align closely with universal expectations.
- Prerequisite Coursework: UCSD recommends coursework in the sciences and strongly encourages applicants to have a background in social sciences and humanities.
- MCAT Score: A competitive MCAT score in the range of 514-520 is typical for admitted students. The average MCAT score of UCSD’s incoming class in 2024 was 514.
- Clinical Experience: UCSD places a strong emphasis on clinical exposure, valuing applicants who have demonstrated compassion and a commitment to patient care.
- Diversity of Experience: The admissions committee looks for students who bring unique perspectives and experiences to the program, aligning with UCSD’s mission to train culturally competent physicians.
Requirements at the University of Michigan Medical School
The University of Michigan Medical School is another top institution with comprehensive requirements for applicants.
- Prerequisite Coursework: Michigan requires core coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as biochemistry and social sciences. They also emphasize the importance of statistics and recommend humanities courses to foster well-rounded applicants.
- MCAT Score: A competitive MCAT score typically falls within the 515-520 range for admitted students. In 2024, the average MCAT score for admitted students was in the 90th percentile.
- Clinical and Research Experience: Michigan values significant clinical exposure and encourages applicants to pursue research opportunities. They specifically seek candidates who demonstrate a commitment to service and leadership.
- Holistic Review: Michigan’s admissions process evaluates not only academic performance but also personal attributes such as resilience, empathy, and the ability to work effectively in teams.
Final Thoughts
While each medical school has its own unique premed requirements, there are certain essential steps every aspiring student must take. Demonstrating a strong academic record, meaningful clinical and research experiences, and well-rounded personal qualities will greatly increase your chances of being accepted into a top medical school. Make sure you do your research and stay organized throughout the application process. With determination and hard work, you can achieve your dream of becoming a doctor!
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