Choosing When to Apply

Applying to any health professions program is expensive and time-consuming. It is both financially and competitively better to only apply once. Because of this you want to be sure to apply when your application will be strong. You will need a competitive overall GPA, a competitive math and science GPA, excellent entrance exam scores if exams are required, a good number of high quality letters (4-6 for a committee letter, typically 3-5 for other programs that do not take committee letters), as well as quality community service hours and significant healthcare experience. Please use the self-assessment to determine how you score in terms of readiness for applying.

Why Wait?

• You know that you want to go into healthcare, but still struggle to articulate "Why ______ specifically?" to be competitive you must have a deeper understanding beyond "I love science and I want to help people/animals."
• You need time to gain more experience. This could be health related, community service, leadership, research, or any combination.
• You need more time to prepare for the MCAT/DAT/GRE and/or more time to increase your GPA.
• You need more time gaining experience with those who would write letters of recommendation.
• You need time to finish everything that has to be completed. There are primary applications - including the personal statement essay, supplementary and secondary questions, letters to request, entrance exams to study for and take, forms to complete for the committee (for those requesting a committee letter) -- all in addition to your coursework and other responsibilities.