MD application and admission information

Medical school application:

Application to most medical schools is done through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) centralized application processing service: http://www.aamc.org/students/amcas/aboutamcas.htm -- application should be completed in the summer after your junior year.

Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT):
Everyone applying to medical school must take the Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT).

This is a standardized test now delivered exclusively at Thomson Prometric computer-based testing sites multiple times a year. For testing dates, times, locations, and answers about the computerized MCAT exam, visit the MCAT website. The MCAT assesses understanding of scientific concepts and principles required for the study of medicine – thus the science course preparation – scientific problem solving, critical thinking and writing skills. 

Your score is based upon your performance in four sections:

  • Verbal reasoning, physical sciences (organic chemistry and physics), and biological sciences - scores range from a low of 1 to a high of 15
  • Writing skills are reported on an alphabetical scale from a low of J to a high of T.

You can only register for the MCAT online (www.Aamc.org/mcat).

SUNY Oswego Health Professions Advising Committee (HPAC) letter of recommendation:

The application process all MD and most DO programs requires a single letter of recommendation from the HPAC. Applications will be accepted beginning the LAST FRIDAY OF MARCH of the semester before you complete your summer AMCAS application and will not be accepted after the FIRST FRIDAY OF OCTOBERApplications can be found online.

Medical School Admission:
Medical schools use numerous criteria to make decisions; the specifics of these are related to each school’s unique mission. However, among the general criteria are:

  • Scores on the Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT) (An average of 10 is good, and no lower than a 6 in any one category.)
  • Grade point average (GPA) – probably a minimum of 3.5
  • Personal statement
  • Shadowing experiences, internships
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Interviews