Getting Into
Medical School
AAMC Resources and Services
for Premed Students
Association of
American Medical Colleges
Getting Started
About the AAMC
Founded in 1876 and based in Washington, D.C., the AAMC is a not-for-profit association
representing all 154 accredited U.S. and 17 accredited Canadian medical schools; nearly 400 major
teaching hospitals and health systems, including 51 Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers;
and more than 80 academic societies. Through these institutions and organizations, the AAMC
represents nearly 173,000 full-time faculty members, 89,000 medical students, 129,000 resident
physicians, and more than 60,000 graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the
biomedical sciences.
Through its many programs and services, the AAMC strengthens the world’s most advanced medical
care by supporting the entire spectrum of education, research, and patient care activities conducted
by our member institutions. The AAMC and our members are dedicated to the communities we serve
and steadfast in our desire to earn and keep the public’s trust for the role we play in improving
the nation’s health.
© 2019 The Association of American Medical Colleges
Contents
Getting Started
Aspiring Docs ................................................................................................................... 4
Finding Volunteer and Lab Experiences ......................................................................... 5
Choosing a Medical School
Medical School Admission Requirements
™
(MSAR
®
) .................................................... 6
Mission and Interview Questions Worksheet ................................................................ 7
Programs
Summer Health Professions Education Program ........................................................... 8
Medical Minority Applicant Registry ............................................................................. 9
Fee Assistance Program ................................................................................................... 10
Anatomy of an Applicant ............................................................................................... 11
Getting Into Medical School
A Premed Student’s Steps to Medical School ................................................................ 12
Medical College Admission Test
®
(MCAT
®
) .................................................................... 14
What’s on the MCAT Exam? ............................................................................................ 15
Applying to Medical School
American Medical College Application Service
®
(AMCAS
®
) .......................................... 16
How Does AMCAS Work? ............................................................................................... 17
Paying for Medical School
Financial Information, Resources, Services, and Tools (FIRST) ...................................... 18
You CAN Afford Medical School .................................................................................... 19
Student Budgeting Worksheet ....................................................................................... 20
My Path to Medical School: Checklist ................................................................... 21
Learner Feedback Panel ......................................................................................... 22
Welcome to the AAMC — Your Trusted Resource for
Official Guidance and Information for Premed Students!
You are about to embark on the most exciting journey of your education and training, and you’ll
be making some of the most important decisions of your career.
At the AAMC, we’re here to help you navigate the journey — from premed through residency
and beyond — with reliable, trusted resources and services.
We hope that you find this booklet helpful in answering many of your questions about embarking
on a career in medicine. We encourage you to visit our website to take advantage of the many
resources we’ve created for you, including webinars, podcasts, inspiring stories, tools, and tips.
Also, be sure to connect with AAMC Premed on social media to get the latest information
and join us in discussions about premed topics.
We wish you the very best of success in a rewarding and fulfilling career in medicine!
AAMC Premed Team
aamc.org/students
AAMC PreMed @AAMCPreMed
Getting Started
Aspiring Docs
The AAMC’s Aspiring Docs website provides resources and
inspiration to help you get started on your path to medicine.
There’s a lot of planning and preparation leading up to applying to medical school — so start exploring the
great information on the Aspiring Docs website right away.
You’ll find fact sheets with a wealth of information on:
• Partnering with your advisor.
• Deciding if a career in medicine is right for you.
• Getting lab experience, shadowing a doctor, and finding summer programs.
• Preparing to take the MCAT
®
exam.
• Applying to medical school or MD/PhD programs.
• Making the most of a gap year.
• Experiencing an anatomy lab, seeing a patient for the first time, and other experiences shared by current
medical students.
• And much more.
Plus, you’ll be able to read inspiring Q&A interviews with medical students, residents, and physicians about
their personal stories — some of whom took a unique path to medicine or overcame challenges.
And, finally, be sure to follow premed, medical student, and resident bloggers as they share their
experiences, challenges, and what keeps them motivated on their path to a career in medicine on
AspiringDocsDiaries.org.
aamc.org/aspiringdocs
4
Getting Started
Finding Volunteer and Lab Experiences
Two of the most important things that can help you decide if a career in medicine is right for you is getting
volunteer experience in a medically related environment and getting lab experience. Volunteering will help
you prepare for medical school in addition to enhancing your medical school application.
Each year, the number of medical school applicants who have significant medically related volunteer
experience and/or lab experience grows. Many universities now require internships or a capstone course
during the senior year of college. Working in a lab setting will help make you a competitive applicant;
it will also help you determine if a career in medicine or medical research is right for you. Here are answers
to common questions. Find more answers on the Aspiring Docs website at aamc.org/aspiringdocs.
Where can I find out about opportunities?
If you are still in school, your first step should be to talk with your academic or prehealth advisor. Also
check to see if there is a campus office of community service or student activities that maintains a website
or database. Check the science department bulletin boards or websites for opportunities to assist with
faculty research projects. Join premed or service clubs because they’re one of the best ways to hear about
volunteer and research openings, make friends, and find out about conferences and other opportunities.
Hospitals, clinics, labs, research facilities, charities, foundations, or other organizations may have volunteer
opportunities listed online.
If you haven’t started college or if you’ve already graduated, focus on networking. Call people you know —
some of your best opportunities may come from within your own network of friends, family, and work and
school contacts. Ask any of them if they know about open clinical or research positions or other available
opportunities. Human resources departments at large research hospitals and universities in your area might
be looking for lab technicians. Job opportunities are typically posted on the career pages of their websites.
Is it better to have one ongoing experience or many different experiences?
It’s good to have a variety of experiences, but it’s also important to show you’ve cultivated specific interests and are
able to commit to an activity over a sustained period of time. You’re more likely to gain significant responsibilities
or leadership roles if you regularly volunteer with an organization. This also helps you network and develop
relationships with potential mentors and other people who may later write your letters of evaluation.
When is the best time to look for a position?
According to Rivka Glaser, PhD, adjunct professor of biology at Stevenson University, if you’re interested
in a research or laboratory position for the following semester, the best time to look for positions is during
the middle of the semester, or a week or two before midterms. There also tend to be a lot of research
opportunities, both paid and volunteer, in the summer. Remember, typically there are more applicants than
available spots, so complete your applications early.
5
Choosing a Medical School
Medical School Admission Requirements
™
(MSAR
®
)
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to go to medical
school. Rely on accurate data from a trusted source.
The AAMC’s Medical School Admission Requirements resources provide the most comprehensive, up-to-date
information and data.
The Official Guide to Medical School Admissions: How to Prepare for and Apply
to Medical School
This is the most complete and trusted guide for medical school admissions and includes crucial information
about the application process, financial resources, interview tips, and admissions criteria. Receive exclusive
insight from the experts who manage the MCAT
exam and AMCAS
®
application, and learn about how
admission decisions are made, diversity in medical schools, paying for medical school, applicant and matriculant
data, and more. It includes worksheets to help you make strategic decisions during the application process.
Available in print and e-book formats.
Medical School Admission Requirements for U.S. and Canadian Medical Schools
When you’re ready to start researching medical schools, the Medical School Admission Requirements
website is the most accurate resource for requirements, data, and information. This is the only comprehensive
resource with current data that come directly from the AMCAS application and MCAT exam. The site
is mobile friendly, with detailed search and filter options, dynamic charts, and an expanded compare
feature. Review information about each school’s admission timeline, premedical coursework requirements,
demographics of the entering class, admissions statistics, and more. Your one-year subscription allows
you to search, sort, and save information.
aamc.org/msar
6
Choosing a Medical School
Mission and Interview Questions Worksheet
Medical schools give weight to specific characteristics that align with their missions. Be aware of each
school’s mission statement and how your personal traits align with it. Examples could include research
inquisitiveness, empathy, teamwork, curiosity, and a desire for knowledge about the health care delivery
system. You can find each medical school’s mission statement under the “About” section in the Medical
School Admission Requirements website. You don’t need a subscription to view this section. Go to
aamc.org/msar, and click on “preview the website for free.”
For a list of interview questions, see the article “Selecting a Medical School: 35 Questions I Wish I Had
Asked” at aamc.org/35questions.
aamc.org/msar
Pre-Med Worksheet from the Official Guide to Medical School Admissions
© 2016 Association of American Medical Colleges. May not be reproduced or distributed without prior written permission.
Use this form to identify and assess the schools where you may apply.
The Medical School Admission Requirement website allows you to filter your search for different medical
schools by things such as class size, location, and community service requirement (www.aamc.org/msar).
Every medical school has a different curriculum and style. This worksheet can help you determine which
factors are important to you.
School name: __________________________________________________________________________
Impression of school: o Favorable o Undecided o Unfavorable
Likelihood of applying: o Will apply o Undecided o Unlikely to apply
Follow-up questions to ask: ____________________________________________________________________
Worksheet 6.1
Factors to Weigh Before Applying
Ideal Good No Not a
Factor fit fit opinion Unsure fit Notes
Course offerings
Class size
Location
Research programs
Technology
Interviews and/or
meetings with faculty
Reputation
Technology
Tuition and financial aid
Programs for minority
or disadvantaged
students
Teaching methods
Combined-degree
offerings
Campus tour
Rural or community
offerings
Residency placement
7
Programs
Summer Health Professions Education Program
The Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) is a FREE
(full tuition, housing, and meals) six-week academic enrichment summer
program for qualified undergraduate freshmen and sophomores from:
• Racial and ethnic groups that historically have been underrepresented in health professions — African
American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian.
• Rural areas, economically disadvantaged areas, or groups that historically have received substandard
health care (regardless of racial or ethnic background).
SHPEP offers students a variety of academic and career experiences that will support their preparation
within the health professions:
• Academic enrichment in the basic sciences and quantitative topics.
• Learning and study skills development, including methods of individual and group learning.
• Clinical exposure through small-group clinical rotations and full-group clinician seminars. This is limited
to 5% of program time for all sites.
• Career development sessions, including the exploration of the health professions, admissions process,
and an individualized education plan to identify other appropriate enrichment activities.
Housing, meal, and travel costs are covered by the program. Scholars are provided with a $600 stipend,
which typically is distributed midway and at the end of the program.
There are many other summer enrichment programs and pipeline and outreach programs for students
who are not eligible for SHPEP. Talk with your advisor, check the list of resources on shpep.org, and visit
aamc.org/aspiringdocs for more information.
shpep.org
facebook.com/shpepconnect
@SHPEPconnect
@SHPEPconnect
SHPEP is a national program funded by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation with direction and technical assistance provided
by the Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Dental Education Association.
8
Programs
Medical Minority Applicant Registry
The Medical Minority Applicant Registry (MedMAR) is used by U.S. medical schools
to identify U.S. applicants who self-identify as members of a racial or ethnic group
historically underrepresented in medicine, or who are economically disadvantaged.
When you register for the MCAT exam, you’ll get a chance to participate in the Medical Minority Applicant
Registry. The registry was created to enhance admissions opportunities for U.S. students who are members
of a racial or ethnic group historically underrepresented in medicine, or who are economically disadvantaged.
Please see the website for specific eligibility requirements. The registry provides basic biographical information
and MCAT exam scores to minority and admissions offices at AAMC-member medical schools, which may
choose to send information to students.
aamc.org/medmar
9
Getting Started
Fee Assistance Program
The AAMC Fee Assistance Program assists those who, without financial assistance,
would be unable to take the MCAT exam and/or apply to medical schools that use
the AMCAS application.
Fee Assistance Program benefits include reduced registration fees for the MCAT exam, official MCAT
preparation materials, complimentary access to the Medical School Admission Requirements website,
waiver of AMCAS fees, and more.
Be sure to check the Fee Assistance Program eligibility requirements before you register for the MCAT exam,
submit your AMCAS application, or purchase any AAMC products as benefits are not retroactive.
aamc.org/fap
Programs
10
Getting Started
Anatomy of an Applicant
Many medical schools are progressing to a competency-based admissions process. In addition to your
grades and test scores, these schools evaluate you based the 15 Core Competencies that demonstrate your
preparedness for medical school. To show how successful applicants have demonstrated these competencies
in many different ways, Anatomy of an Applicant is a free resource that shares interviews from real medical
students, their prehealth advisors, and the admission officers who accepted them. You can also complete
a workbook with self-assessment worksheets to track your own competencies.
Preprofessional Competency: Teamwork
Definition: Works collaboratively with others to achieve shared goals; shares information and knowledge
with others and provides feedback; puts team goals ahead of individual goals.
CURRENT COMPETENCY LEVEL: PLANNING
PROGRESSING
DEMONSTRATING
How I demonstrate(d) this competency:
Why it’s important:
What this says about me:
What I learned or how I grew from this experience:
How this prepared me or influenced my interest:
MY PLAN(S) TO DEVELOP THIS COMPETENCY
Next steps:
Timeline:
Notes:
Programs
11
Getting Started
aamc.org/students
Getting Into Medical School
This infographic represents a basic timeline of the steps toward
medical school. Your advisor and AAMC resources can help you
individualize the timeline and steps.
College
Freshman
Year
Explore Your
Options for Careers
in Medicine
Get Some Experience
Stay on Track
for Medical
School
Get More Experience
and Look at Resources
Prepare for
Medical School
Interviews
Get Ready for
Medical School
Make a
Game Plan
With Your
Advisor
Register
for the
MCAT Exam
Summer
Summer
Summer
Visit Aspiring Docs
website
Meet with an advisor
Attend prehealth meetings
Apply to summer programs
Explore financial aid options
Participate in
enrichment programs
Volunteer or intern
in the field
Work with your prehealth advisor
Attend prehealth meetings
Volunteer/work in a
medical-related field
College
Sophomore Year
Receive Letters
of Acceptance
or Rejection
If accepted:
Decide which medical school
you want to attend
Complete FAFSA and
financial aid forms; visit
FIRST at aamc.org/FIRST
Consult with
your advisor
Get interview tips from
Aspiring Docs
website
Get research or internship experience
Review AMCAS application process
Look into Fee Assistance Program
Review the MCAT registration process
Register early!
Use Medical School
Admission Requirements
to compare schools
Begin filling out
AMCAS application
Buy books
Find a place to live
Attend orientation
programs and matriculate
If waitlisted or rejected:
Talk with your advisor
Consider a gap year or
post-bacc program
Explore at students-residents.
aamc.org/postbacc
Finalize and submit
your AMCAS
application
Continue to
volunteer/work
Things to discuss with your advisor
Taking a gap or
growth year
Post-bacc programs
Letters of
recommendation
Premed and other
required course work
College
Junior Year
College
Senior Year
College
Graduation
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
When to take the
MCAT exam
College
Freshman
Year
Explore Your
Options for Careers
in Medicine
Get Some Experience
Stay on Track
for Medical
School
Get More Experience
and Look at Resources
Prepare for
Medical School
Interviews
Get Ready for
Medical School
Make a
Game Plan
With Your
Advisor
Register
for the
MCAT Exam
Summer
Summer
Summer
Visit Aspiring Docs
website
Meet with an advisor
Attend prehealth meetings
Apply to summer programs
Explore financial aid options
Participate in
enrichment programs
Volunteer or intern
in the field
Work with your prehealth advisor
Attend prehealth meetings
Volunteer/work in a
medical-related field
College
Sophomore Year
Receive Letters
of Acceptance
or Rejection
If accepted:
Decide which medical school
you want to attend
Complete FAFSA and
financial aid forms; visit
FIRST at aamc.org/FIRST
Consult with
your advisor
Get interview tips from
Aspiring Docs
website
Get research or internship experience
Review AMCAS application process
Look into Fee Assistance Program
Review the MCAT registration process
Register early!
Use Medical School
Admission Requirements
to compare schools
Begin filling out
AMCAS application
Buy books
Find a place to live
Attend orientation
programs and matriculate
If waitlisted or rejected:
Talk with your advisor
Consider a gap year or
post-bacc program
Explore at students-residents.
aamc.org/postbacc
Finalize and submit
your AMCAS
application
Continue to
volunteer/work
Things to discuss with your advisor
Taking a gap or
growth year
Post-bacc programs
Letters of
recommendation
Premed and other
required course work
College
Junior Year
College
Senior Year
College
Graduation
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
When to take the
MCAT exam
A Premed Student’s Steps to Medical School
Getting Into Medical School
Medical College Admission Test
®
(MCAT
®
)
The AAMC develops and administers the MCAT exam — a standardized, multiple-
choice test that has been part of the medical school admissions process for more
than 85 years.
The MCAT exam is designed to help better prepare tomorrow’s doctors for the rapid changes in science
and medical education. It reinforces the diversity of interests and preparation that medical school admissions
committees look for in their applicants.
The MCAT exam is designed to test not only what you know, but how you apply that knowledge by
assessing your problem-solving and critical-thinking skills and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social
science concepts and principles, all of which are necessary to the study and practice of medicine.
You’ll find a variety of resources to help you prepare for the exam, including MCAT practice exams and other
materials written by the developers of the exam, video and review questions in the Khan Academy MCAT
collection, and more!
To learn more about the MCAT exam, including what’s on the exam, test preparation, and scoring,
visit aamc.org/mcat.
aamc.org/mcat
@AAMC_MCAT
14
Getting Started
What’s on the MCAT Exam?
Get all the details at
students-residents.aamc.org/mcatexam
Biological and
Biochemical
Foundations of
Living Systems
Section
3 Foundational
Concepts
4 Skills Demonstrated
1. Knowledge of scientific principles
2. Scientific reasoning and problem-solving
3. Reasoning about the design and execution of research
4. Data-based statistical reasoning
3 Skills
Demonstrated
1. Foundations of
comprehension
2. Reasoning
within the text
3. Reasoning beyond
the text
2 Foundational
Concepts
5 Foundational
Concepts
Content in this
section also contains
Scientific Inquiry &
Reasoning Skills.
Content in this
section also contains
Scientific Inquiry &
Reasoning Skills.
Content in this
section also contains
Scientific Inquiry &
Reasoning Skills.
59 Questions 59 Questions 59 Questions 53 Questions
Chemical
and Physical
Foundations
of Biological
Systems Section
Psychological,
Social, and
Biological
Foundations of
Behavior Section
Critical Analysis
and Reasoning
Skills Section
15
Applying to Medical School
American Medical College Application Service
®
(AMCAS
®
)
Did you know that each premed student applies to an average
of 17 medical schools?
The best part, however, is that when you use the AAMC’s centralized application service, you only need
to submit one primary application, regardless of the number of medical schools to which you apply.
AMCAS is available to individuals applying to first-year entering classes at participating U.S. medical schools.
If you are applying to an MD or a combined MD program (e.g., MD/PhD), you most likely will use the AMCAS
service to complete and submit your application materials. If you are an advanced-standing or transfer
applicant, you should contact the medical school directly for assistance.
AMCAS collects and delivers your verified application information, letters of evaluation, and MCAT exam
scores to each school you choose. Each participating school is then responsible for making its own individual
admissions decisions.
Most medical schools also administer a secondary application and host in-person interviews, which you
may be invited to complete. Visit medical school websites for more information about their application
and review processes.
Contacting AMCAS
AMCAS representatives are available to answer your questions and assist you in completing your application
from Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. ET. Closed Wednesday, 3-5 p.m. ET.
202-828-0600 | [email protected]
aamc.org/amcas
@AMCASinfo
16
Applying to Medical School
Preparing for AMCAS
• The AMCAS application opens in May of each year for applicants who plan to begin medical school in
the following year. When you are ready to begin the application, you should start by visiting the AMCAS
website (aamc.org/amcas). The documents and video tutorials available in the Resources section are
updated for each application cycle with the most current information.
• AMCAS does not advise applicants on making decisions related to their application, so we encourage
you to work with your school’s advising office and to review the Medical School Admission Requirements.
• Using the online application, you will enter information about yourself and your background. You will
have your official transcripts sent directly to AMCAS, where AMCAS staff will verify your coursework and
normalize your GPA based on your school’s grading scale. Along with your letters of evaluation, AMCAS
then sends your verified application data to the medical schools to which you have chosen to apply.
• For regular applications, your official transcripts must be received by AMCAS within 14 calendar days
after the application deadline.
• You can submit your AMCAS application before your official transcripts and letters of evaluation
reach AMCAS.
• June-September is the peak application submission period, which means your application may take
about six weeks, after all materials are received, to be processed.
• After your application is submitted, you may check its verification status using our automated system
or on Twitter @AMCASinfo.
Find FAQs, video tutorials, an application guide, and more at
aamc.org/amcas
Application Submitted
Online application completed
and submitted to AMCAS
Fees paid (or Fee Assistance
Program award used)
All required official transcripts
arrive at AMCAS
Verification of coursework
and calculation of AMCAS
GPAs
Verified application sent to
designated medical schools
Letters delivered as they are
received
MCAT scores automatically
delivered as they become
available
Application Processed Application Delivered
How Does AMCAS Work?
17
Paying for Medical School
Financial Information, Resources, Services, and Tools (FIRST)
Most medical students borrow at least a portion of the money they need
to finance their education, and there are many options to repay.
Financial Information, Resources, Services, and Tools (FIRST) is the AAMC’s financial aid and debt
management program — and it’s packed with FREE materials to help you make wise financial decisions.
You will find:
• A library of financial aid fact sheets to help you with budgeting, understanding credit, borrowing loans,
loan repayment, debt management, and more.
• Videos that provide answers to many financial aid-related questions.
• The MedLoans
®
Organizer and Calculator — a tool specifically designed for medical students
at AAMC-member medical schools.
• Free access to the AAMC’s Financial Wellness program (aamc.org/financialwellness) an online financial
education program that provides practical information and interactive lessons on money management,
budgeting, credit, and more.
With FIRST, you will find the information you need to make educated borrowing decisions and develop
sound debt management skills.
aamc.org/first
18
Paying for Medical School
You CAN Afford Medical School
You want to be a doctor or physician scientist — that’s a good career choice,
both socially and financially. You probably know that medical school is expensive,
but what you may not know is that once you are admitted to medical school,
there are options for financing your education. The key is to find the solution
that best meets your goals.
Things to Think About
There are many different ways you might choose
to pay for your education, but student loans are
a reality for most students. The keys to successful
borrowing and loan repayment are careful planning
and budgeting, learning how to effectively manage
your debt, and educating yourself on the various
repayment and forgiveness options.
Have a Plan
One of your first stops on the road to creating
a sound financial plan is AAMC’s FIRST program.
FIRST provides extensive information on the cost of
applying to medical school, various types of loans,
repayment information, and other related topics.
Even with these resources, the process of financing
medical school may be a bit overwhelming at times,
so your next step is identifying a financial aid advisor
to assist you.
Get Good Advice
The importance of getting sound, accurate, and
timely advice cannot be overstated. Whether it’s
your prehealth advisor, a current medical student
or resident, or the admissions or financial aid officer
where you are applying, there are people who can
help you navigate this often complex process. Look
at each school’s financial aid office website to see
what information is available. Bring your financial
aid questions with you when you visit schools,
and stop by the financial aid office to get your
questions answered.
Learn About Repayment Options
It may seem too early to learn about loan repayment
options, but being aware of them can help ease
the fear of student loan repayment down the
road. There are various repayment plans currently
available, and it’s important to know that you have
options when it comes to selecting the plan that
works best for your financial situation. Another
opportunity for repayment can be found with service
repayment programs. These programs can help
you repay your loans while practicing in a medically
underserved area, or through public or military
service. For more information, review the financial
aid fact sheets at aamc.org/first/factsheets.
Final Thoughts
Stay true to your passion. Explore your options.
Find a good advisor/mentor. If you can, enter medical
school with little or no credit card debt and be aware
of the status of your undergraduate loans. The less
debt you begin medical school with, the less debt
you will have at the end. Do what you can to not
put application and interviewing costs (fees, travel,
hotels, etc.) on credit cards. Frankly, there will be no
room in your medical school budget to pay off that
debt. Lastly, remember the financial aid office; they
will be essential to you throughout medical school.
They are there to help, so make sure you get the
help you need.
aamc.org/first
19
Getting StartedPaying for Medical School
Budget Worksheet for Students
For an interactive PDF of a student’s budget, visit aamc.org/studentbudget.
MONTHLY INCOME:
Financial aid
Investment income
Gifts
Other
Total Monthly Income
MONTHLY FIXED EXPENSES:
Tuition and fees
Books and supplies
Savings
Rent/mortgage
Phone
Taxes (federal, state)
Vehicle payments
Other transportation
Personal loans
Education loans
Insurance (life and health)
Home/renter insurance
Auto insurance
Auto registration/taxes
Other
Total Fixed Expenses
MONTHLY VARIABLE EXPENSES:
Food/household supplies
Dining out
Clothes
Laundry/dry cleaning
Gas, oil, auto maintenance
Parking
Medical/dental/eye care
Entertainment
Travel/vacation
Utilities
Music/books/journals
Personal care
Subscriptions
Cable TV and internet
Credit card payments
Charity/contributions/gifts
Savings for interviews/relocation
Test prep course/materials
Exam/licensing fees
Other
Total Variable Expenses
Plus Total Fixed Expenses
Equals Total Monthly Expenses
Total Income
Less Total Expenses
Equals Total Discretionary Income
(or Deficit)
20
Getting StartedMy Path to Medical School
College Year 1
ü
Date
Talk with academic advisor about selecting fall semester courses.
Appointment with a prehealth advisor.
Add prehealth meetings to my calendar and get on email lists.
Find opportunities to volunteer, shadow a doc, etc.
Explore options for careers in medicine on Aspiring Docs website.
Apply to summer enrichment programs (if eligible).
Explore premedical coursework requirements and application policies in MSAR Online.
Learn about financial aid and financing strategies through FIRST’s website (aamc.org/first).
Summer
Volunteer/work in medical field; internship, research, leadership.
Participate in summer enrichment programs.
Take summer courses as necessary or desired.
College Year 2
Check in with prehealth advisor.
Add prehealth meetings to my calendar and double-check that I’m getting emails.
Volunteer/work in medically related activities.
Develop relationships with faculty, advisors, and mentors on campus (important for getting letters of recommendation later).
Apply for summer research/enrichment programs (if eligible).
Summer
Volunteer/work in medical field; internship, research, leadership.
Participate in summer enrichment programs.
Take summer courses as necessary or desired.
Check out the AMCAS website resources and review the process of applying (aamc.org/amcas).
Look at the process of applying and preparing for the MCAT
®
exam (aamc.org/mcat).
Look at the Fee Assistance Program (aamc.org/fap) eligibility requirements.
College Year 3
Pursue leadership opportunities in prehealth organizations on campus.
Consider which faculty, advisors, and mentors to approach for letters of recommendation.
Continue with volunteer/work in meaningful clinical experiences, and possibly take on a more substantial role.
Meet with prehealth advisor to: Strategize my medical school application timeline and whether I want to take a gap year;
discuss letters of recommendation; review medical education options; and discuss my schedule for completing premedical
and other required coursework.
Register for a spring date for the MCAT exam (if not taking a gap year).
Explore premedical coursework requirements and application policies in MSAR Online.
Learn about financial aid and financing strategies through FIRST’s website (aamc.org/first).
Summer
Continue with volunteer/work in meaningful clinical experiences, research, and leadership experiences.
Complete AMCAS application; work on secondary applications.
Request letters of recommendation from faculty, advisors, mentors.
College Year 4
Continue with volunteer/work in meaningful clinical/research experiences.
Consult with prehealth advisor on application status, medical educations options, etc.
Complete supplementary application materials for schools I’ve applied to.
Prepare for interviews and campus visits at medical schools.
Receive acceptances and make a decision on which medical school to choose.
Notify the medical schools I will not be attending by the deadline date given.
Complete FAFSA and financial aid forms.
Summer
Purchase books and equipment, and make my living arrangements.
Attend orientation programs and matriculate into medical school.
My Path to Medical School: Checklist
21
Getting Started
Learner Feedback Panel
The AAMC Wants to Hear From You!
The AAMC strives to meet the needs and interests of premedical students,
medical students, residents, and fellows. In order to do this well, we need
to hear from you. We regularly invite input through surveys, focus groups,
and feedback panels to understand your needs, interests, concerns, and
pressing questions.
Learner Feedback Panel
The AAMC hosts an ongoing Learner Feedback Panel of premeds, medical students, MD/PhD students,
residents, and fellows. Panel members serve for a total of 1-2 hours each month over the course of a year,
responding to mostly online and email requests for input from the AAMC. This is a great chance for students
and trainees to build peer networks and boost their CVs while providing key input on AAMC resources
and services.
To learn more about the AAMC’s work to obtain learner feedback and how to contribute your voice, please
contact [email protected].
22
Getting Started
Notes
23
19-069B (09/19)
