This email will focus on selecting schools to which you will apply.
CHOOSING SCHOOLS
This is a time-consuming and personal process. Looking at a ranking list, or looking at average GPAs and MCATs or DATs will give you a very simplistic and skewed view of schools, and of the admissions process. Spend the time to read official sites to help you choose schools that seem to match your interests and your profile.
Target month is June to determine which MD schools you want to apply to. If you are a Texas resident you should apply to all the Texas schools through their central application (TMDSAS) in May. DMD and DO decisions can be made later in the summer – say July and August.
You can always add schools to your common application later on, so if you cannot decide on all the schools to which you will apply, select the ones you know and submit your common application in a timely way.
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WHERE TO START
*PLEASE Read our applicant handbook that discusses variables to consider when selecting schools.
We can give you feedback once you have done your thinking, research and incorporated more than just a ranking list into your choices. We will not give you a list of schools.
*To start, use these websites for
Read about the overall outline of a curriculum for these degrees as well as general information about the preparation they expect of competitive applicants. You need a frame of reference before you begin to look at specific schools. DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP.
*Use school websites and/or official directories to help you learn about a school’s mission, its curriculum, special features, details about location and affiliated clinical facilities, joint programs, etc.
Current MSAR Online users will automatically have access to updated information and data and will continue to be able to access the previous edition of information. The online MSAR is a wonderful searchable database and the ebook is designed to help applicants prepare for and apply to medical school. Users will be able to choose between versions for their Kindle, Nook (or other e-reader), iPad, and computer.
*Consider this form as a way to keep track of what you learn, for MD, or DO or DMD school.
Until you have your standardized test score, it will be impossible to make an informed decision on your final list of schools. But you can do a lot of research and have a preliminary idea of the schools you want.
And remember, if you want to stay in the northeast or maybe go to California you are like thousands of other highly qualified applicants. So look outside your comfort zone and consider schools in the south, Midwest and plains. Even state schools could be good bets – a couple of your choosing.
Compiling a list is not a step that you will complete in one day. There is no need to worry about it – enjoy the research. And do it alongside of completing your application, doing your HPRC interview, and prepping for the MCAT or DAT.
Regards,
Carol and Stephanie
