Its mission statement aims to advance human health through innovation in med education, research, patient care, and community engagement.

Let’s find out what they really deliver.

Is Nova a Good Medical School?

Nova is a good med school, offering research options, combined degrees, and good campus life. Living in Fort Lauderdale, with warm weather and recreational choices, is a plus. But Fort Lauderdale can be an expansive place to live, the school isn’t as prestigious as other nearby options, and there are complaints online concerning the school’s organization.

We’ll investigate all this in more detail in this article.

Interested in learning more about specific medical school pros and cons? Check out our Medical School Guides here – we cover all osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) schools.

Why Nova Medical School? Major Pros

Good Research Options

NSU’s MD program is very research-focused. More than 200 research projects are currently taking place at NSU, including investigations on cardiovascular disease, anti-cancer therapies, chronic fatigue syndrome, autism, coral reef restoration, stem cells, disorders that cause blindness, and wildlife DNA forensics.

Campus

NSU has a spacious 314-acre campus in Fort Lauderdale/Davie, Florida, just minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale.

It allows med students to train in a culturally diverse region and to access hospitals and strong specialty practices.

Great City

Fort Lauderdale is a great city! It has year-round sun, outdoors fun, and vibrant cuisine and culture.

There is tons of natural beauty, like blue-wave beaches, quiet backcountry eco waterways, lush green spaces, and outdoor fun like kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, fishing, snorkeling, diving, boating, and even mountain biking trails.

The city has a sophisticated urban vibe. Downtown Fort Lauderdale is 15 minutes away from the campus!

Off-Campus Housing

Nova has Off-Campus Housing Services to provide students, faculty, and staff with a resource to identify options for rental housing near NSU.

There are rental listings, including apartments, condos, townhouses, homes, and rooms in private homes.

Student Well-Being

The school delivers its med students excellent support for their well-being, such as medical and counseling services and health insurance. Every student is enrolled in the NSU Student Health Insurance plan.

Recreation

The Office of Recreation and Wellness (NSU RecWell) offers many programs and services in an inclusive environment. It includes Intramural & Club Sports, Fitness & Wellness Programming, Scuba and Rescue Certifications, and Outdoor Adventures.

Class size

NSU has relatively small classes, with 51 students in the 2021 class. Med students at Nova typically work in small groups of 7-8 students per cohort, which helps the learning environment.

Osteopathic and allopathic medicine

Nova has programs in both osteopathic and allopathic medicine. Each medical school has a separate application process and sets the students in its own way.

Dr. Kiran Patel College of Allopathic Medicine is the newest. NSU’s DO program, on the other hand, is the largest medical school in Florida and is still growing, with pending approval of an additional site campus in the Tampa Bay region.

Focus

The MD curriculum is centered on patient-first interaction and professional collaboration. The College is focused on training students to care for underserved populations, including rural, homeless, and the elderly. Every Nova med student must complete a rotation in one of these areas.

Related: The Ultimate List Of Classes You Take In Medical School (What Doctors Learn & Why)

Faculty-Student Ratio

According to US News, the faculty-student ratio at Nova is 0.3:1. Its Allopathic Medicine has 54 full-time faculty members.

Why Nova Medical School? Major Cons

Cost of Living

Generally, Fort Lauderdale is expensive, and its cost of living is 7.2 points higher than the national average.

If you move to the city, you should expect the cost of living to be more expensive than in other Florida cities, like Saint Petersburg and Tampa Bay.

Related: How Do Medical Students Pay For Living Expenses? (Crucial Money Saving Tips)

Tuition

Its full-time tuition costs $56,784.

Nova isn’t as cheap as other schools.

Very selective

Nova has only a few MD spots, and it’s competitive to gain admission. Their MD program sees more than 5,000 primary applications for approximately 50 spots, with a 1% acceptance rate.

Schedule Problems

According to our research, there are reports that NSU gives its students a hard time with schedule issues.

There are complaints about things like the university changing mandatory class times on the same day, surprise same-day in-person exams, and scheduling students to mandatory standardized patient classes, not realizing they would be late going to another lab on the other side of campus.

More on all this later in the section on student comments.

Problems with religious freedom

Another complaint about NSU is about their management of religious issues. According to a Reddit user, some students had a religious holiday on the day of an exam, and they let NSU know a month ahead they couldn’t make it, but the university didn’t accept the reason, saying that they could have made up the holiday.

Clinical Facilities and Rotations

Nova med school claims its program has strong ties to South Florida’s seven leading and award-winning hospitals and is building an onsite teaching hospital.

Students at Reddit, nonetheless, claim it doesn’t seem the money ever makes the way back to improvements (an example is the anatomy class given with old anatomy software instead of cadavers)

Besides that, NSU apparently had problems with some hospitals in the area, causing issues with their rotation sites, which are no longer associated with highly regarded hospitals.

Low prestige

Nova is unranked in national medical rankings and is not considered a “prestigious” MD institution.

Relations between school administration and students

The relationship between the school administration and its med students doesn’t seem the best.

Many online students complain that the college management doesn’t receive suggestions to improve students’ experience, and there are even rumors that the managers keep a “blacklist” for unsettled students.

Nova Med School Data

GPA / MCAT

The average scores for the Fall 2020 class were 511 for the MCAT and a 3.69 GPA.

Match List

2022 saw NSU with an impressive 100% match, with around 49 students graduating.

What Are The Entry Requirements For Nova? 

Applicants selected for an interview are assessed holistically using both traditional and non-traditional (multiple-mini interview) formats.

Beyond traditional academics, like a bachelor’s degree and adequate preparation in physics, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and mathematics, the list of personal attributes that are considered during the admissions process are:

• Intrinsic motivation to pursue the MD degree
• Social skills
• Cultural competence
• Teamwork
• Verbal communications skills
• Written communication skills
• Ethical responsibility to self and others
• Reliability and dependability
• Resilience and adaptability
• Altruism
• Capacity for improvement
• Critical thinking and ability to succeed academically

Applicants must present at least three but no more than four letters of recommendation.

Is Nova A Good Medical School? Reddit’s Opinion

Here are some comments from Reddit which stood out regarding the pros and cons of Nova Medical School. 

Frayed relationships with the admin

A literal advisor told me that I didn’t want my name mixed up negatively with admin, that I shouldn’t leave a paper trail. How is giving suggestions to your school on how to improve the experience for future classes a punishable thing!? My friends attending other medical schools have had no experience with this and were as shocked as I am. Does this happen in other med schools? Has anyone else experienced this? Am I just being paranoid? I hope this isn’t a regular thing cause what the actual hell.

– u/novarysmart

When I interviewed at Nova, a student took me aside and told me to never, ever get on the admin’s bad side. I went to the school anyway, because the school accepted me, and I’m so poor that the $2000 deposit meant that I had to go there, even after I got accepted elsewhere. I’ll be honest, I absolutely hate it here.

– u/frustratedxx

Conclusion: Is Nova A Good Medical School? 

Nova is an acceptable med school, offering research options, good campus life, and a solid match rate. Fort Lauderdale is a great city yet expensive. The school comes under fire online concerning its scheduling issues and the administration’s inability to hear or honor students’ suggestions for improvement.

Related Articles

• Best Medical Schools In Miami (Everything You Need To Know)
• Easiest Medical Schools To Get Into In Florida (3 Examples) 

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

This article takes a look at each of the states’ DO options and provides you with all the key facts and figures you’ll most likely want to know.

List Of DO Schools In California

Data and ranking positions are determined by U.S. News reports and individual medical school data.

California Health Sciences University – College of Osteopathic Medicine (CHSUCOM)

CHSU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine is the first program of its kind in the Central Valley, and it seeks to serve the local community, especially the underserved population. Medical Spanish courses help med students learn the language and cultural aspects that may affect a Spanish-speaking patient’s health.

Med students spend the first two years learning from a modified, two-pass systems-based curricular model. It is a patient scenario with scientific principles, problem-solving, active learning, and clinical practice. And in the last years, students have gained hands-on experience through clinical clerkships in regional hospitals, clinics, and health care facilities.

The College of Osteopathic Medicine building opened in 2020, incorporates innovative technology, and has gorgeous views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. 

The school has large classrooms, an Osteopathic Skills lab, a library, a spacious student lounge with Teaching Kitchen, and a Simulation Center.

It had an inaugural class of 79 students in 2020, a second of 120 students in 2021, and a third of 157 students in 2022. The fourth will have approximately 150 med students who will begin classes in July 2023.

School Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must hold US Citizenship, US Permanent Resident, or DACA Recipient, and these school’s minimum requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• A GPA of 3.0
• MCAT of 498 or higher, with no subsection below the 15th percentile (January 1st, 2020, or later).
• Letters of Recommendation: 1) one from a physician (DO or MD) and 2) one academic letter from a professor who has instructed the applicant.

You’ll also need to match prereqs in the following:

• Behavioral Sciences: 3 semester-credits
• Biology: 8 semester credits / one year
• Inorganic or General Chemistry: 4 semester-credits
• Organic Chemistry: 8 semester-credits
• Physics: 8 semester-credits
• English/Composition/Literature: 6 semester-credits

How To Apply

CHSU-COM’s application process has eight successive phases:

1. AACOMAS Primary Application Submission
2. Primary Application Review: Admissions staff screens applications to ensure that they meet the minimum criteria
3. Invitation to Complete Supplemental Application: it includes two essays, an evaluator identification verification, and payment of the Supplemental Application Fee
4. Review of Supplemental Application: applications are reviewed in depth, and Admissions staff will verify that all required Letters of Recommendation have been received
5. Offer for Interview: interviews are virtual, and candidates might be invited at any time after primary and supplemental applications since CHSU-COM utilizes rolling admissions.
6. Interview
7. Recommendation to the Dean: the Admissions Committee will perform a holistic review and consider the entire application package and interview performance before making a recommendation to the Dean
8. Dean Makes Final Admission Decision: the Dean has the final decision, and COM Admissions staff will notify the candidate of the decision.

CHSU-COM utilizes a rolling admissions process, and applicants must apply early in the cycle to be competitive. The AACOMAS and all other required materials must be received before March 1st, 2023.

DETAILS 

• Name: California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine 
• Phone: 559-712-4200
• Website: osteopathic.chsu.edu

Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine (Vallejo, CA)

Touro University Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program combines biological, clinical, behavioral, and social sciences, looking to educate its physicians on primary and specialty care while following osteopathic principles.

Its curriculum is structured into preclinical and clinical education, two years each, for four years.

Keeping its mission and values, it seeks applicants committed to primary care and lifelong community service and holistically approaches patients.

The college considers the entire context of osteopathic review to identify and value applicant experiences, socio-economic determinants of opportunity, and academic metrics that align with osteopathic principles, the osteopathic approach to patient care, equity, and diversity.

School Requirements

Touro doesn’t accept international students. Therefore, only individuals who permanently reside in the United States at the time of application, including DACA recipients, can apply and matriculate.

To apply, candidates have to meet the following minimum requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum Science and Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater (successful candidates have a Science and Cumulative GPA of 3.3 or greater).
• MCAT score of 500 or better.
• Letter of recommendation from a Pre-Professional Advisory Committee Letter OR two letters from biological/physical sciences professors who have taught the candidate. A letter from a doctor (DO or MD) is also recommended.

Many criteria set the bases under what candidates are evaluated, but it includes mainly the following:

• Academic Competence
• Personal/Professional Achievements
• Demonstrated Leadership Skills
• Creative Abilities
• Experience in Health Care
• Likelihood to Practice in Under-Served Primary Care Areas

Candidates must complete the following coursework with a grade of “C” or better:

• Biology
• Physics
• Chemistry
• General/Inorganic Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry (may substitute 4-semester units of Biochemistry for 4-semester units of Organic Chemistry)
• Biochemistry
• 2 courses in College English
• 2 courses in Behavioral Science
• 1 course (minimum 4-semester units) of Math/Computer Science

Although not required, it is recommended that incoming students enroll in Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Biochemistry.

How To Apply

They don’t accept direct applications, and all applicants must submit a primary application through AACOMAS. Eligible candidates must submit a secondary application through the TUC system (an application fee of $100 is required).

The Admissions Committee review complete files and extend invitations to interview on a rolling basis. Interviews are panel formatted and are typically held from late September through April or early May.

Students (incoming and current) may be required to submit a background check before or during their enrollment.

DETAILS 

• Name: Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine (Vallejo, CA)
• Phone: 702-777-8687
• Website: com.tu.edu

Western University of Health Sciences – College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP) and COMP-Northwest

The College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific’s curriculum consists of four years of full-time academic and clinical programs, and it also has a DO/MPH dual enrollment program for students who wants a deeper understanding of public health practice and research.

Related: Is Western University A Good Medical School? (Major Pros & Cons)

WesternU COMP students have hands-on research experience working with faculty researchers. The main fields of interest include:

1. Anatomy
2. Cancer
3. Clinical Research
4. Educational Research
5. Evolutionary Biology
6. Immunology & Microbiology
7. Metabolic Diseases
8. Neurobiology
9. Pharmacology

School Requirements

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Recommended overall GPA of 3.0 OR a minimum of a one-year post-baccalaureate or master’s degree program GPA of 3.4 with a minimum of 25 semester science credit hours.
• A baccalaureate degree with a minimum of 90 semester credit hours.
• Recommended MCAT score of 500 or higher (within the last three years).
• The CASPer online evaluation.

The college seeks students academically prepared and with:

• Diverse experiences.
• Community interest and involvement.
• Commitment to compassionate health care.
• Good understanding of the profession and WesternU.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Besides it all, you must match the following academic prereqs:

• College English
• Behavioral Sciences
• Biological Sciences with lab
• Organic Chemistry with lab
• Inorganic Chemistry with lab
• Physics with lab

The Admissions Committee employs a holistic approach in which non-academic criteria are also crucial in selecting. 

The college seeks a diverse and balanced student population. It considers factors additional to academic performance, such as a well-rounded background, cognitive and experiential diversity, work experiences, letters of recommendation, interest in and knowledge of osteopathic medicine, and professional promise.

How To Apply

The college uses Altus Assessments to help them recruit candidates.

Altus Assessments has developed three assessments for the evaluation of candidates for admission:

• CASPer
• Snapshot
• Duet

The college requires applicants to take the CASPer assessment, which should be done by completing the Secondary Application, and applications without a CASPer Report will not be considered.

Although it will not be used in the decision process, COMP-Northwest chose to trial Duet for 2022-2023 and recommended all applicants take the assessment.

There is a separate application for the Pomona and Lebanon campuses; applicants can apply to one or both. If you apply to both campuses, you must submit two secondary applications and two processing fees, but only one set of letters.

DETAILS 

• Name: Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific
• Phone: 909-623-6116
• Website: westernu.edu/osteopathic

Related Articles

• Osteopathic Medical (DO) Schools In Texas (Ultimate Guide)

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

Its mission is to provide first-rate medical education while leading the field through research and patient care! So let’s find out what they deliver.

Is Wayne State University a Good Medical School?

Wayne State is an excellent med school. They are prestigious, offering outstanding scientific research opportunities, a combined-degree option, impressive extracurriculars, and a good city location. But there are a few weaknesses, such as its low acceptance rate, the huge class sizes, a high cost of living, and tuition.

We’ll break this all down in more detail in this article.

Interested in learning more about specific medical school pros and cons? Check out our Medical School Guides here – we cover all osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) schools.

Why Wayne State University Medical School? Major Pros

High-quality research

WSUSOM has good research credentials and offers excellent opportunities for med students.

The institution’s research emphasis includes cancer, women’s and children’s health, neuroscience, and population studies. It is an affiliate of the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, one of 26 NCI-designated Cancer Centers in the United States, where its students oversee more than 400 clinical trials, participate in a national program to study cancer data for future research, and provide about half of all national statistics on cancer in African Americans.

Combined Degrees

Besides MDs, Wayne offers many graduate programs. It includes an MD/PhD, 10 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, 8 Master of Science programs, and 4 certification programs.

Studying in Detroit

When comparing WSUSOM to other med schools in Michigan, it has a clear advantage just for being in a big city. Add that to its ties to the Detroit Medical Center, and students can encounter less common diseases and injuries that may not be as prevalent in other small towns.

Living in Detroit

Whether you’re a foodie or an art enthusiast, Detroit has tons for you to do. The city has a mixed population with numerous backgrounds and ethnicities, allowing you to learn from its unique diversity.

Students can catch a game or concert in The District, grab a bite in Corktown or enjoy a day outside by the water.

Extracurriculars

WSUSOM has a lot of extracurricular opportunities, allowing its class to serve the city community. It’s home to more than 70 student-run organizations, clinic opportunities, and learning communities.

Here are some of the most important:

Clinical

1. Street Medicine Detroit
2. Cass Clinic
3. HUDA Access Clinic
4. CHIP
5. Malta Medical Clinic
6. Dew Clinic

Community

1. Gleaner’s Food Bank
2. Auntie Na’s
3. Run Detroit
4. Code Blue

Interest/cultural groups

1. Art in Medicine
2. Black Medical Association
3. LGBT+ People in Medicine
4. OBGYN

Professional groups

1. APSA
2. American Medical Association
3. Benjamin Rush Institute

Talent groups

• Ultrasounds A Cappella
• Detroit Medical Orchestra

Prestige

US News and World Report named the Wayne State University School of Medicine a Top 100 medical school for research in its annual Best Medical Schools rankings, in #68th. The school was also ranked 86th in Primary Care.

Other rankings pointing to its prestige include:

• 28th Most Diverse Medical School
• 58th in Most Graduates Serving in Medically Underserved Areas
• 98th in Most Graduates Practicing in Rural Areas
• 111th in Most Graduates Practicing in Primary Care

Faculty-Student Ratio 

The faculty-student ratio at Wayne State University is 0.7:1. The School of Medicine has 816 full-time faculty members.

Diversity

WSUSOM ranks 26th among the Most Diverse medical schools.

Rotations and clinical facilities

Alongside Detroit Medical Center, Wayne State Medicine is also affiliated with Henry Ford Health System hospitals, providing tremendous clinical opportunities for its students.

The Detroit Medical Center includes:

• the Children’s Hospital of Michigan
• the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan
• Detroit Receiving Hospital
• Harper University Hospital
• Hutzel Women’s Hospital
• Sinai-Grace Hospital
• Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital
• the DMC Surgery Hospital

And the primary affiliates within the HFHS are:

• Henry Ford Hospital
• Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital
• Henry Ford Kingswood Hospital

Note: there are reports that WSUSOM lost its partnership with HFH (see the Reddit comments at the end of the article for more details).

Why Wayne State University Medical School? Major Cons

Very selective

For the class year of 2025, there were 10,386 applicants to WSUSOM. Only 305 received admission offers.

That puts the Wayne State School of Medicine’s acceptance rate at about 2.9%.

Tuition

Wayne State Medicine’s tuition is $36,638 for in-state and $64,837 for out-of-state.

Class size

WSUSOM keeps a large class size, with 270+ students in a class. That could make it tough to strike up relationships with professors in the hopes of getting residency recommendations.

Cost of Living

Detroit’s cost of living is 3% higher than the national average. It is not a super expensive city to live in, but other areas are sure cheaper.

Climate

In Detroit, the summers are warm and the winters are freezing. Be able to tolerate the extremes if you wish to go here.

Wayne State University Med School Key Data

GPA/MCAT:

The average MCAT score of applicants who matriculated into WSUSOM was 511. The average GPA was 3.7.

Match List

Wayne State keeps an excellent match record. On its 2022 Match Day, 302 of their students matched, representing a 97.4% match rate.

51% matched in-state, and 43% matched into primary care.

What Are The Entry Requirements For Wayne State University? 

WSUSOM evaluates candidates through a holistic admission process. It means the Admission Committee considers your personality, maturity, character, and suitability for a medical career after analyzing your entire record, including GPA, MCAT scores, recommendations, and interview results.

But it is important to note that WSUSOM considers prior experience in the health care field a desirable characteristic that will improve your chances.

According to our research, the percentage of accepted applicants with relevant experience includes the following data:

1. 87 percent – Non-medical/clinical community service or volunteer experience
2. 90 percent – Medical/clinical community service or volunteer experience
3. 1 percent – Military service
4. 56 percent – Medical/clinical paid employment

Related: Best Pre-Med Schools In Michigan (Costs, Extracurriculars & Admission Info)

Early Decision Program

The Early Decision Program requires a minimum MCAT score of or above 511 and an overall GPA of 3.75.

WSUSOM: Reddit’s Opinion

Here are some comments from Reddit which stood out regarding the pros and cons of Wayne State University Medical School. 

Positive Opinion On Wayne State University Medical School

Its prestige brings career benefits

if you’re considering staying in Michigan, you can’t really beat Wayne for career benefits. Half of all the doctors in the entire state are Wayne MDs. The name carries some serious clout, arguably even more that UMich because you’ll have that alumni connection almost everywhere.

– u/Tobbygan

Negative Opinion On Wayne State University Medical School

The school doesn’t address students’ needs

So they say the curriculum is whatever. They focus on one body system at a time and I’ve heard mixed reviews. The admin admin admin. It is GARBAGE. they lost their partnership with Henry Ford hospital and have just been doing a terrible job of addressing student needs, especially after this pandemic. Feel free to PM me if you have any specific questions.

– u/-Ok-Refrigerator6059

Conclusion: Is WSUSOM A Good Medical School? 

Wayne is an excellent med school. Its prestige and research opportunities are solid, it has a range of combined degree options and is situated in a cultural hotspot. Drawbacks such as its low acceptance rate, large class sizes, and Detroit’s high cost of living, are definitely worth some consideration, however.

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

Its aim is to deliver high-quality med education, but it is not without controversy.

Let’s try to figure out what they really deliver.

Is St. George’s a Good Medical School?

SGU med school is a fine option if you are not a competitive applicant for US-based med schools. It is less competitive, and you’ll have a higher probability of acceptance. They accept applications continuously, the campus is stunning, your medical degree will be accepted in US and UK, and they offer good clinical rotation options and cheap tuition. But there are clear disadvantages. Caribbean med schools (SGU included) have low prestige, course difficulty, and questionable residency match records.

This article aims to take a closer look at all this, taking a deeper dive into SGU’s possible pros and cons.

Interested in learning more about specific medical school pros and cons? Check out our Medical School Guides here – we cover all osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) schools.

Why St. George’s Medical School? Major Pros

Less competitive and higher chance of acceptance

SGU is less competitive than US-based med schools, with an acceptance rate of 43%. Actually, it is one of the main reasons med students consider it, especially if they fear rejection elsewhere.

SGU accepts applications on an ongoing basis

If US-based universities have stressful application deadlines and rigorous schedules, SGU accepts applications on an ongoing basis. SGU admits three classes each year, and you can start in August, January, or April, and applications remain open until a few weeks before the term begins.

Great campus

St. George’s University owns 65 buildings on 42 acres of land, spread out on a peninsula in the southwest corner of Grenada in the West Indies.

Its great campus in Grenada offers students gym facilities, restaurants, and even an internal bus service.

Related: Med Schools By The Beach

International vocation

Med students in St. George are immersed in a culturally diverse and cosmopolitan environment.

SGU receives students from all over the world, and its graduates have gone on to practice medicine in more than 50 countries. Outside of America, it claims to be the number one international source of US-based doctors. 

Leading provider of residents in the US

The SGU School of Medicine claims to be the leading provider of doctors in first-year residencies in the US for the last 12 years.

Choosing where to study

Students can take part in their basic sciences requirements in the UK through the MD Program at St. George’s University of Grenada School of Medicine/Northumbria University.

Similarly, med students can complete their first year of study in Bengaluru, India, on a 5-year medical path.

Clinical rotation opportunities

SGU has more than 75 affiliated hospitals in US and UK, offering clinical rotations in both countries.

Internationally Recognized Medical Degree

St. George’s University offers MD degrees recognized in the United Kingdom and the United States.

USMLE

According to the university data, international students at St. George’s University had a 97% first-time pass rate on the USMLE step 1 in 2019. In 2020, more than 1,100 students obtained a residency at US Hospitals.

Tuition

Its $28,305 tuition makes SGU an affordable option compared with US-based med schools.

Why St. George’s Medical School? Major Cons

Low prestige

Like all the Caribbean med schools, St. George doesn’t have a good prestige. They are known as second-choice schools, and often their students have to work harder to prove themselves.

Related: Does It Matter What Medical School You Go To? (Explained!)

Cut-throat and competitive environment

Considering the University business model, there are a lot of complaints about the cut-throat environment among med students.

Now USMLE Step 1 is pass-fail, and proving yourself as a med student becomes even more challenging.

Difficulty

A lot of what makes a Caribbean school really hard is they have many checkpoints med students must hit to even sit for USMLE. Many students do not hit them and are being held back and taking two or more years to graduate.

Matching difficulties

Because of the issue with prestige, and the caliber of students, it could be more difficult to match from SGU into the more competitive residency positions in the US.

Potential loan debt

Failing to match into a residency could leave graduates out of the job market with considerable educational loan debt.

St. George’s Med School Data

GPA/MCAT:

In addition to the flexible entry requirements asked by the University, International students are not asked to sit for the MCAT. But they are encouraged to sit for the UKCAT to provide additional information on their academic and science foundation.

Students with an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.7. And a 3.5 science GPA and a 29 MCAT score automatically receive “The Chancellor’s Circle Scholarship.” This is a 1/3 tuition scholarship worth $94,500.

Match List

Despite the concerns online about the schools holding back many students, the fact is that SGU officially has a 93% of students matching into residency positions.

2022’s data shows matches in emergency medicine, internal medicine, pathology, surgery, pediatrics, and more.

Including top-tier programs!

What Are The Entry Requirements For St. George? 

St. George’s University offers flexibility in placement based on academic and personal history. The University receives students from any education system around the world and provides a 4-year program for those with a traditional baccalaureate degree and five, six, or seven-year programs for students entering with international degrees. Students with secondary school credentials are placed into the five- or six-year programs based on academic background and performance.

Is St. George’s a Good Medical School? Reddit’s Opinion

Here are some comments from Reddit which stood out regarding the pros and cons of SGU Medical School. 

Negative Opinion On SGU Medical School

It’s hard, and only a few make it through

I went to a caribbean medical school. 10/10 don’t recommend. I’m one of the few who made it.

– u/Jungkook_uWu

It’s tough to match

Honestly avoid the Caribbean. They are a shell of what they used to be and incredibly hard to match residency. You’re better off going MD/DO in the US or international before you even consider the Caribbean. I have heard nothing but terrible things from there.

– u/DrGally

Questionable business model

They have a predatory business model, and the reason they are off-shore is because they would not be allowed to operate like that here in the US. Also a lot of them just fail people out left and right for missing class or being ranked low.

– u/engineer_doc

Over time, Carib schools have gone from being a viable alternative for those willing to work hard, to a complete predatory money pit riding on past reputations.

– u/wheeshnaw

Obviously, we don’t endorse these comments but we do feel they’re appropriate to include in an article about the school’s potential pros and cons.

Conclusion: Is St. George’s A Good Medical School? 

SGU med school is an acceptable option if you are not a competitive applicant for US-based med schools. They accept applications on an ongoing basis, the campus is beautiful, your medical degree will be accepted in US and UK, and they offer good clinical rotation options and cheap tuition. But there are clear disadvantages with issues of prestige and educational difficulty.

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• Is AUC A Good Medical School? (Major Pros & Cons)
• Is Ross University A Good Medical School? (Major Pros & Cons)

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

Its mission statement is centered on excellence in education, research, and patient care. So let’s find out what they really deliver.

Is Temple a Good Medical School?

Temple is a good med school. It offers solid scientific research opportunities, combined-degree options, huge extracurriculars, and an excellent clinical learning site. But there are clear disadvantages to its campus location, and combined with low acceptance rates, higher than average tuition, and the cost of living in Philadelphia, it’s not all positive.

This article aims to take a deeper dive into LKSOM (Temple) and unpick all its major pros and cons in the hope of making your search for a med school easier.

Interested in learning more about specific medical school pros and cons? Check out our Medical School Guides here – we cover all osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) schools.

Why Temple Medical School? Major Pros

Research

All students are strongly encouraged to complete some scholarly work during their four years in the MD program at Temple.

Its scientists are responsible for groundbreaking advancements in areas across the scientific spectrum, including Cancer Biology, Cardiovascular and Thrombosis, Cell and Developmental Biology, Clinical Lung Research, HIV, Immunology and Autoimmunity, Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes, Neuroscience, Substance Abuse, and Translational Medicine.

Being attached to any of those disciplines, with the potential to get cited in research, is an attractive proposition.

Global Medicine Program

Temple med school keeps a Global Health Program, a comprehensive, hands-on enrichment program that provides students with global clinical and research opportunities.

It ranges from primary preventative healthcare to emergency disaster care, early clinical exposure to global medicine leaders, international service, and research experiences.

Med students say the program is life-changing and career-inspiring.

Combined Degrees and programs

Like many of its peers, LKSOM offers many options for med students willing to advance in their students with combined degrees and programs. Besides its traditional 4-year MD Degree, LKSOM offers the following popular course options:

• MMS in Physician Assistant Studies
• Ph.D. and MS degrees in Biomedical Sciences
• Dual degrees; MD/Ph.D., MD/MPH, MD/MA in Urban Bioethics, and MD/MBA
• MA (Master of Arts) in Urban Bioethics

Extracurriculars are huge

Beyond the course requirements, med students at Temple have many student organizations to advance their studies.

And there are many of them – going from community engagement to enrichment activities, book clubs, sports clubs, and so on!

Here are just a few options open to successful candidates…

• Alpha Omega Alpha
• Gold Humanism Honor Society
• MD Student Government Association
• Bridging the Gaps Health Internship Program
• Center for Urban Bioethics
• Temple Emergency Action Corp (TEAC)
• Integrative Medicine Interest Group
• Students Engaging in Health Policy
• Students for a National Health Policy   
• Temple Arts Group
• Temple Cricket Club
• Temple Med Soccer

A full list is available here.

Clinical Simulation Center

Temple shelters a prestigious Clinical Simulation Center. Its building houses the Clinical Simulation and Standardized Patient programs. They promote the integration of simulation services to train medical students, PA students, post-baccalaureate students, medical residents and fellows, physicians, and the Temple Transport Team.

School prestige

LKSOM is a prestigious med school. They are ranked #68 in US News’ Best Medical Schools: Research and #88 in Best Medical Schools: Primary Care.

Diversity

Temple is a very inclusive institution and keeps many events and programs to promote its diversity.

Among these include:

• LKSOM Summer Pre-Matriculation Program “PREP” 
• Diversity Scholars Summer Research & Enrichment Program
• Mini Medical School
• Black Men in Medicine Symposium
• Diversity Dialogues (Every 4th Monday, September – May)
• Health Equity Grand Rounds
• Health Equity Journal Club
• Diversity & Inclusion Book Club

Student Support Services

LKSOM’s Office of Student Affairs offers students various support services, from academic and financial to personal and social. 

The student support network is led by the associate dean for student affairs and includes faculty advisors, deans, and individual faculty members.

Clinical Learning Sites

Temple students can learn as members of healthcare teams in various ambulatory and inpatient settings and participate in caring for a diverse population of patients in rural and urban communities. Its network is vast and includes the following:

1. Temple University Health System Sites: Main Campus, Episcopal Campus, and Jeanes Campus
2. Fox Chase Cancer Center
3. St. Luke’s University Health Network
4. Capital Health 
5. Lancaster General Hospital
6. Main Line Health System
7. St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children

Philadelphia City

Philadelphia is one of the important cultural and historical centers in the United States. It combines urban excitement with the hospitality of a small town.

Being a med student in Phili gives you access to celebrated restaurants, world-renowned cultural attractions, and world-class athletics. Some highlights include:

• Philadelphia Museum of Art
• The Barnes Foundation, with a new site on the famed Benjamin Franklin Parkway
• Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
• Fairmount Park is a beautiful mecca for walkers, runners, bikers, and rowers
• The Opera Company of Philadelphia
• The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, the country’s oldest medical society
• World Cafe Live, Electric Factory, Trocadero, Tower Theater, TLA music venues
• Reading Terminal Market
• Backdrops and settings for such blockbuster films as Rocky, Philadelphia, Witness, Marley and Me, and Silver Linings Playbook
• Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and other historical sites
• The Philadelphia Eagles, Flyers, Phillies and 76ers

Why Temple Medical School? Major Cons

Campus location

If Phili is a great city to live in, Temple med school campus in the town is not located at its best site.

LKSOM has two campuses: North Philadelphia and St. Luke (in Bethlehem).

In North Philadelphia, the base for med students is the Medical Education and Research Building. It is a 480,000-square-foot structure with state-of-the-art facilities for education, research, and student life. And directly across the street from MERB is Temple University Hospital.

The St. Luke’s campus features a class size of 40, where students benefit from outstanding mentorship and diverse clinical experiences.

Despite that, we found tons of online comments that North Philadelphia is a dangerous area and that students must be careful.

It really counts as a con!

Acceptance rate

For the academic year 2021-2022, 10,883 students applied to Temple med school, 437 students were accepted, and 212 enrolled. The acceptance rate is competitive at 4.02%.

Cost of Living

Philadelphia is an expensive city, and its cost of living is 17% higher than the national average. Of course, it varies depending on how much you spend, for example, on housing and transportation. But it’s definitely a con here.

Class size

LKSOM admits a class of 200 students every year. It’s certainly not the largest admission cohort we’ve seen, but it is still on the large side.

Tuition

Temple is not among the cheapest med schools in the US. Its full-time tuition is $54,340 for in-state and $57,618 for out-of-state.

Temple Med School Data

GPA/MCAT

Successful LKSOM applicant’s average total GPA was 3.72, and the average MCAT score was 511.

Match List

The most recent data shows LKSOM had great success, with 100 percent of students matching into residency positions.

What Are The Entry Requirements For Temple? 

Applicants must take the MCAT within three years of matriculation and no later than September of the year in which applies.

The Admissions Committee holds no preference for science majors, but all applicants must demonstrate a capacity for excellence in the sciences, a broad humanities education, and strong writing skills.

Is Temple A Good Medical School? Reddit Opinion

Here are some of the best comments from Reddit regarding the pros and cons of Temple Medical School. 

Positive Opinion On Temple Medical School

LKSOM serves the north Phili community.

so I don’t go to Temple for ugrad but I did get into LKSOM, and I think they really care about contributions to the community. they mention it pretty clearly in their mission statement, and p sure they were also founded on the basis of serving the north philly community specifically.

– u/Ok-Impression-8209

Negative Opinion On Temple Medical School

Campus safety

Agreed. I currently work in the medical school. Finally bought pepper spray, switched my shift from PM to AM, and get text alerts every 2-3 days about a shooting, accident, burglary, or other misc crime just a few blocks from the medical school. We recently had a undergrad senior pass away, pre-law killed from an attempted robbery. LINK

– u/kidrauhl_benz

As someone who went to Temple med and now works at TUH, I would strongly recommend against living on/near campus. It is not a safe area and is also a food desert.

– u/BruleMD

Conclusion: Is Temple A Good Medical School? 

Temple is a good med school, and it is located in a great city. It offers good scientific research opportunities, combined-degree options, huge extracurriculars, and an excellent clinical learning site. But there are safety issues concerning its campus location and the level of competition required to gain acceptance.

Related Articles

• 9 Best Medical Schools In Pennsylvania (Everything You Need To Know)
• Best Pre-Med Schools In Pennsylvania (Costs, Extracurriculars & Admission Info)

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

But does it live up to the reputation? And how far does the med school go in terms of meeting its mission statement focused on diversity, inclusion, and its education of outstanding individuals? Let’s find out…

Is Sidney Kimmel A Good Medical School?

Sidney Kimmel is a great and prestigious med school. It offers excellent clinical facilities, combined degrees, a well-located campus, and a tremendous extracurricular and well-structured student affairs office. But its low acceptance rate, the high cost of living in Philadelphia, class sizes, and expensive tuition is definitely something to consider.

If you’re interested in finding out more about Sidney Kimmel, and diving a little deeper into its pros and cons, read on…

Interested in learning more about specific medical school pros and cons? Check out our Medical School Guides here – we cover all osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) schools.

Why Sidney Kimmel Medical School? Major Pros

Clinical Affiliates

SKMS has an extensive network of clinical facilities, making life easier for the med students looking for hands-on experience and rotations. It includes the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and many affiliates.

Clinical training of students is directed by faculty at affiliated hospitals in suburban Philadelphia, northeastern, central, and western Pennsylvania, as well as in Delaware and New Jersey.

Approximately 3,000 beds are available for clinical teaching, with a student/bed ratio varying from seven to 20 beds per student, depending on the institution.

Early clinical experience

Soon after matriculation, you will be in contact with patients, developing clinical skills and knowledge while contributing to patient care in meaningful and appropriate ways in your early stage in medical school.

Combined Degrees

Alongside the regular MD degree, SKMD has a combined MD/PhD Program, a dual MD/MPH Program at Jefferson, and a Joint MD/MBA-MHA Program in Health Administration, which aims to prepare future graduates for leadership roles.

Residency

Among all the residency and specialty programs offered, here are the most popular matches from its 2020 and 2021 classes:

1. Anesthesiology
2. Emergency medicine
3. Family practice
4. Internal medicine
5. Neurology
6. Obstetrics and gynecology
7. Orthopedic surgery
8. Pediatrics
9. psychiatry
10. Surgery – general

Prestige

Sidney Kimmel is a prestigious med school. It is ranked #56 in US News’ Best Medical Schools: Research and #61 in Best Medical Schools: Primary Care.

Campus Location

SKMC is within walking distance of theaters, museums, ethnic neighborhoods, shopping areas, nightlife, comedy clubs, and fine restaurants.

And the lifestyle in South Philadelphia is maybe the best in Philly. Neighborhood pockets are full of shops, cafes, outdoor dining, and bars.

Related: Best Medical Schools In Philadelphia (Ultimate Guide)

Scott Memorial Library

The Scott Memorial Library (SML) is the campus hub for access to print and non-print resources, study space, and learning technologies.

Extracurriculars

The Office of Student Life & Engagement is the go-to place for student events and activities, organization management, new student university orientation programs, leadership training, and wellness & recreation programs. And the SKMD has a ton of extracurriculars:

• Fitness and Recreation: Jefferson Recreation & Fitness Center (JRFC) is where students attain fitness goals and live healthier lives.
• Student Organizations & Societies: The Student Organization Directory is published annually through the OSLE. This publication includes descriptions of more than 100 active campus organizations and groups.
• Learning Societies: eight different learning societies named after esteemed Thomas Jefferson University graduates have been created to promote communities of students committed to the core values of SKMC. Approximately 32 students from each class form each learning society.
• Community Service: Opportunities for SKMC students to immerse themselves in community service are plentiful. SKMC students participate in community service, from patient care and education at local high schools to medical care and patient advocacy at five area homeless shelters.

Related: Best Opportunities For Hospital Volunteers In Philadelphia

Student Support

SKMC has many resources for students designed to maximize their educational experience. It offers students the opportunity to meet and work with skilled personnel and experience a variety of educational material and methods and everything to support their curriculum in the first two years.

And the Office of Student Affairs and Career Counseling at SKMC is always there to support med students.

Diversity

Given its location in metropolitan Philadelphia, SKMC is conscious of all aspects of human differences. It sponsors the Office of Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives to support its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Why Sidney Kimmel Medical School? Major Cons

Acceptance rate

From the published data of Sidney Kimmel Medical College’s class profile, the SKMC Admissions Committee selects a class of approximately 270 students from a pool of roughly 11,000 applicants. It delivers a competitive acceptance rate of 2.45%.

Cost of Living

Philadelphia’s cost of living is 17% higher than the national average. Still, this can vary greatly depending on how much you spend on housing and transportation. But it’s definitely a con here.

Class size

In the 2018-2019 year, SKMD had a 1,159 students class, and there are comments online stating “the class size might be intimidating to some people.”

Tuition

Sidney Kimmel is not a cheap med school. And its full-time tuition is $60,314, and an estimated minimum expense for a first-year student will be approximately $83,651 for the 11-month academic year.

Related: How Do Medical Students Pay For Living Expenses? (Crucial Money Saving Tips)

Sidney Kimmel Med School Data

GPA / MCAT

The most recent data show that a successful applicant’s average total GPA was 3.73, and the average MCAT score was 514.

Match List

The most recent class had an outstanding success, with 100 percent of students matching into residency positions. The top 4 specialties were internal medicine, emergency medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics.

45% of Sidney Kimmel’s medical graduates went into fields that lead to a primary care career.

Check out the infographic below for additional info…

What Are The Entry Requirements For Sidney Kimmel? 

Applicants must complete the online AMCAS and SKMD secondary applications. To be eligible, an applicant must meet a few requirements:

• Meeting entrance requirements (all academic and technical standards of SKMC)
• Satisfactory completion of current enrollment.
• Good health
• Accept curriculum and tuition changes as approved by the faculty
• Agree to comply with the rules and regulations of Thomas Jefferson University, and the Code of Professional Conduct
• A criminal background check is required.

SKMC will e-mail applicants a receipt notification when they receive the applicant’s verified AMCAS application. The primary objective is to inform candidates about the instructions for completing the Sidney Kimmel Medical College secondary application.

The Admission Committee only starts evaluating the application when all materials have been received, including:

1. The SKMC Secondary Application Form
2. The non-refundable $80 application fee
3. MCAT scores
4. Letters of recommendation (sent directly to AMCAS)

The full breakdown of their admissions criteria is available here.

Is Thomas Jefferson University (Sidney Kimmel) Good? Reddit’s Opinion

Here are some of the best comments from Reddit which stood out regarding the pros and cons of SKMC. 

Positive Opinion On Sidney Kimmel Medical College

Orthopedic department

You should never go to a school due to a specific specialty, but SKMC’s orthopedic department (Rothman) is among the best in the country.

And Philly is generally a dope place.

– u/Gloryblade23

Good Environment

I just got accepted here yesterday and my interview day was great. They really focus on the students and have a great track for primary care, etc. My sister and brother-in-law both attended here and they absolutely loved it and matched to their top choices. It might not be a T20 school but I think focusing on students is more important than just being a good research school but that’s just me. Overall from their experiences and mine it seems like a great school to attend with a great community. I’m also from Jersey and went to Philly a lot when she was there and there’s always something to do so that aspect is great.

– u/ksirak99

Negative Opinion On Sidney Kimmel Medical College

Class size and ranking system

Loved my interview day here. Only cons I could see are the large class size and the ranking system (I believe you’re split into thirds).

– u/Doctasdocta

Conclusion: Is Sidney Kimmel Medical College A Good Medical School? 

Sidney Kimmel Medical College is an excellent choice for med school. Its prestige and excellent clinical facilities, coupled with combined-degrees options and great extracurriculars, make it so. But there are clear disadvantages, such as its low acceptance, the high cost-of-living ins Philadelphia, class sizes, and expensive tuition.

Related Articles

• 9 Best Medical Schools In Pennsylvania (Everything You Need To Know)
• Best Pre-Med Schools In Pennsylvania (Costs, Extracurriculars & Admission Info)

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

They claim to prepare their students to become highly qualified, compassionate physicians and offer various clinical, educational, and research opportunities! So let’s find out what they deliver.

Is UAB a Good Medical School?

UAB is a great med school. It offers cutting-edge scientific research opportunities, a combined-degree option, fair tuition for in-state, an affordable cost of living in Birmingham, and a great campus. Its only real disadvantages are its competitiveness and the unfriendly acceptance of out-of-state students.

But if you’re interested in finding out more about UAB, and diving a little deeper into its pros and cons, read on…

Interested in learning more about specific medical school pros and cons? Check out our Medical School Guides here – we cover all osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) schools.

Why UAB Medical School? Major Pros

1. Research

UAB offers its students tons of opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research.

Heersink provides an excellent atmosphere for innovative biomedical research, from introductory science to clinical trial excellence.

It was the fastest-growing NIH-funded institution between 2015 and 2019.

2. Highly ranked specialties

UAB has many highly ranked specialties, including the studies of AIDS, geriatrics, rural medicine, primary care, and internal medicine.

3. Combined Degrees

Students at the UAB Medicine can earn an MD or joint degrees that combine an MD with a Ph.D. or master of public health.

4. Extracurriculars

Beyond the course requirements, UAB med students have many ways to advance their studies, mainly through student organizations.

And there are many of them, including local chapters of national organizations, medical interest groups, community service clubs, and other organizations, such as the medical school’s very own vocal performing group.

Full list here.

5. Low Cost of Living

The cost of living is very cheap in Birmingham, a benefit of Alabama medical schools. It is reasonable to expect to pay between $400 and $600 for a one-bedroom apartment near UAB Birmingham medical school.

6. Prestige & Ranking

The UAB School of Medicine ranks among the nation’s best medical schools, according to the 2019 US News and World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools Rankings.”

It ranked #37 in primary care, #32 in medical research, and #15 in obstetrics and gynecology.

7. Downtown city life

Downtown Birmingham has something for everyone. Med students can enjoy dinner at the Pizitz Food Hall, great shows at the Alabama Theatre, and baseball games at Region’s Field.

8. Campus

UAB Medicine’s beautiful urban campus is centralized in a large university complex over 80 city blocks. Much of that space is dedicated to clinical facilities, research laboratories, classrooms, and surgical suites. It is home to the award-winning UAB Recreation Center and lush green spaces.

A great plus at Heersink is the fact students can complete clinical training in Birmingham or at other regional campuses in Huntsville, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa.

9. Training facilities

The first two years of preclinical training occur at the campus in Birmingham, located in the center of UAB and surrounded by world-class medical facilities UAB Hospital, the Kirklin Clinic of UAB Hospital, and Children’s of Alabama.

But UAB Medicine has nine freestanding locations too, including nationally-recognized facilities like UAB Hospital, The Kirklin Clinic of UAB Hospital, UAB Women & Infants Center, and the UAB Callahan Eye Hospital.

10. Support curriculum planning

The Office of Undergraduate Medical Education supports students in planning, implementing, and evaluating their undergraduate medical curriculum for the MD degree. They work with clinical leadership and collaborate with other SOM units.

11. Tuition

UAB has competitive tuition for in–state students: $29,998, lower than the national average.

Out-of-state students, on the other hand, have a $62,714 yearly tuition.

12. Diversity

UAB commits to promoting a diverse presence of trainees while promoting a welcoming and inclusive culture and environment. Among the institution initiatives we highlight:

1. Diversity and Inclusion Mentorship Program: a mentorship portal designed to facilitate underrepresented students to find and connect with faculty mentors from similar backgrounds.
2. The Underrepresented in Medicine Housestaff Committee (URiM Housestaff): serves as a home for Asian-Pacific Islander, Black/African American, LGBTQ+, Hispanic, Women, and Native American residents and fellows to grid.

Why UAB Medical School? Major Cons

1. Competitive

As with any Alabama medical school, the University of Alabama at Birmingham admissions are very competitive. In 2021, there were 5,774 applications, but only 186 enrolled.

That makes UAB medicine’s acceptance rate about 3.2%.

2. Not friendly for out-of-the-state students

UAB admits applicants from all over the United States, but they strongly prefer legal residents of Alabama.

Important UAB Med School Data

GPA/MCAT

2021’s data says a successful applicant’s average total GPA was 3.78, and the average MCAT score was 509.

Match List

The 2022 class celebrated an incredibly successful Match Day, with 100 percent of students matching into residency positions.

What Are The Entry Requirements For UAB? 

UAB med school has very similar selection factors to other good medical schools, including academic achievement, community service, and compassion.

Applicants to UAB must complete the AMCAS and UAB secondary applications. To receive the invitation to the secondary application, med applicants must achieve the minimum requirements in the MCAT Score, GPA, Citizenship, and Credit Hours.

• MCAT Score: 495 total MCAT are typically eligible.
• GPA: Alabama residents must have a 3.0 science (BCPM) GPA at the undergraduate level, and out-of-state must have a 3.3 science (BCPM) GPA,
• Citizenship: Only US citizens and permanent residents are considered.
• Credit Hours: at least 90 hours of undergraduate course credit from an accredited US college or university on the AMCAS application.

UAB Early Decision Program

High school seniors can jump-start their med school dreams by applying for the UAB School of Medicine’s Early Medical School Admission Program, which permits them to graduate with a bachelor’s degree and an MD.

Is UAB A Good Medical School? Reddit’s Opinion

Here are some of the best comments on the pros and cons of UAB Medical School found over on Reddit…

Positive Opinion On UAB Medical School

Birmingham is a great city to live in

Birmingham is a pretty cool, growing city! I grew up in Birmingham and my family still lives there. I go to college somewhere else in the state, but I still go back over the holidays. When I get around to applying, UAB will probably be one of my top choices.

– u/plipplop97

Good school, great opportunities, and cheaper…

UAB without a second thought! Very good school, great career opportunities, and you won’t be tens of thousands of dollars in debt! The decision couldn’t be easier.

– u/guitarfluffy

Negative Opinion On UAB Medical School

The school is not friendly to out-of-state students

UAB is a great school. As an OOS resident with no ties you can still be competitive but you need to have killer stats and research...Also beware the OOS tuition is very very high (65K+ for tuition) and it is close to impossible to become an in state resident. I was accepted there as OOS and chose not to go for this reason.

– u/wildcatmd

Do you have any strong ties to the area/state? They are not OOS friendly and their secondary application is a bitch to fill out – expect a mini version of the AMCAS there.

– u/Byakugan360

Conclusion: Is UAB A Good Medical School? 

UAB is a great med school. It offers state-of-the-art scientific research opportunities, a combined-degree option, fair tuition for in-state, an affordable cost of living in Birmingham, and excellent clinical facilities and extracurriculars. Out-of-state students might have a rough time here, however, especially in terms of increased tuition and competitive preference for in-state.

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

1. The School of Medicine
2. The School of Graduate Studies
3. The School of Allied Health Professions

LSU’s mission is to educate healthcare professionals who excel at the highest levels in academia, private practice, and industry.

So let’s find out what they really deliver.

Is LSU Shreveport a Good Medical School?

LSU Shreveport is a good med school. It offers good scientific research opportunities, a combined-degree option, a fair cost of living in North Louisiana, and well-structured student affairs office and financial aid. Weaknesses such as its lack of out-of-state students, and low prestige make it not the obvious choice for everyone, however.

Interested in learning more about specific medical school pros and cons? Check out our Medical School Guides here – we cover all osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) schools.

Why LSU Shreveport Medical School? Major Pros

1. High-quality research

LSU gives its med students a lot of research opportunities, including curricular elements in preclinical and clinical years, a medical student research program, research electives, a research track of distinction, and an MD/Ph.D. program.

Besides each of these options, students may always volunteer to participate in research with faculty mentors from various departments too.

2. LSU med school does not require any specific major

As typical in most med schools around the country, all majors are eligible to apply for admission to the MD Program as long as the minimum academic requirements are met.

Related: What’s The Easiest Pre Med Major? (Read This First!)

3. Combined Degrees

Alongside the regular MD degree, LSU has an MD/PhD program in the Basic Sciences and the School of Medicine at LSU Shreveport. This combined MD/Ph.D. degree is offered in the five basic science departments of the School of Graduate Studies and School of Medicine:

1. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
2. Cellular Biology and Anatomy
3. Microbiology and Immunology
4. Molecular and Cellular Physiology
5. Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience

This is something that could be an advantage when it comes to specialty-specific residency matching or career prospects if you hope to go into fields outside of clinical medicine.

4. Extracurriculars

The University’s Office for Student Affairs is responsible for delivering all student services in the School of Medicine.

Student Affairs facilitates student leadership, academic training, and personal growth through co-curricular and extracurricular services, programs, and activities.

Academic societies available at the med school include:

• LSU Health Shreveport Book Club
• LSU Health Billiards Interest Group
• LSU Health Shreveport Running Club
• Wine Interest Group (WIG)
• Anesthesiology Interest Group (AIG)
• Surgery Interest Group (SIG)
• AMA-MSS School Chapter
• American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA)

Full list here.

5. Student Financial Aid Office

SFAO supports med students by:

1. Providing access, aid, and advisory services to the campus to facilitate student recruitment, enrollment, and retention
2. Assisting with the removal of any financial barriers to education
3. Complying with federal, state, and university policies governing financial aid programs

LSU has an extensive range of scholarship and awards opportunities, such as:

• School of Medicine Institutional Scholarship
• LAMMICO Award for Excellence Scholarship
• School of Medicine Disadvantaged Background Scholarship
• Nathan Bernstein Scholarship Fund
• Sandra and Jerry Martin Endowed Scholarship for Medical Students
• Reginald and Ruby Slaughter Scholarship
• LSU Honor Scholarship
• LSU Rotary Club Scholarship
• Charles G. Hargon Jr. Memorial Scholarship for Medical Students

Related: How Do Medical Students Pay For Living Expenses? (Crucial Money Saving Tips)

6. Low Cost of Living

Regarding the cost of living, North Louisiana has competitive advantages. Its residents enjoy a low cost of living, low housing costs, and low unemployment rates, which allow for a high standard of living. And Shreveport ranks as one of the state’s most affordable.

7. No CASPer

Another big pro is that LSU doesn’t require the CASPer entry test for its application considerations.

Why LSU Shreveport Medical School? Major Cons

1. Low prestige.

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport is not among the most prestigious med schools. It is ranked #93-123 in US News’ Best Medical Schools: Research and #93-123 in Best Medical Schools: Primary Care.

2. Class size

LSU School of Medicine counts a Faculty of over 500 with a class size of 150 for fall 2021. And plans are underway to increase the class size to 200 over the upcoming years.

Students looking for one-on-one teaching attention could have a hard time here.

3. Very selective.

In 2021, LSU Health Shreveport had over 4,400 applications. Approximately 325 were interviewed, and the final matriculating class was 150.

That makes for an approx acceptance rate of 3.4%

4. Not very friendly for out-of-the-state students

97% of its approved students are in the state, and the school does not seem to accept many out-of-state students.

5. Harassment scandal

In 2021 LSU was involved in an embarrassing harassment scandal, and it is tough to understand how the administration dealt with that.

According to some news reports, 16 medical students reported being harassed by an administrative faculty member and the dean of admissions, requiring “good-looking female applicants and students to write book reports on stories.”

We found some concerning comments about LSU Shreveport on Reddit...

Isn’t LSU Shreveport one of the permanent fixtures of the annual Name and Shame residency program threads too?

Anyone who even remotely follows CFB should know of LSU’s reputation and attitude towards misconduct complaints. What an absolute dumpster fire of an institution and a school at large.

-u/SeaHusky (2021)

Glad someone is saying something about this POS med school.

I feel so much relief. I had wanted to say something about it after my interview but I feared for my medical career.

-u/q-neurona (2021)

We couldn’t find online information about how the University administration specifically dealt with these reports, nor can we validate what they say.

But we feel this internet hearsay is still something to be aware of if you plan on applying to this school.

Essential LSU Shreveport Med School Data

GPA/MCAT:

LSU does not require a minimum undergraduate GPA, but successful applicants’ average science and total GPA have ranged from 3.6 to 3.7 in the past few years.

A minimum MCAT score also is not required. But the average MCAT score for successful applicants in recent years has been 506.

You can see more on LSU Shreveport’s admission data here.

Match List

This year, 99.3% of LSU Health Shreveport’s applicants matched. 31.2% of the graduating class of 2022 will remain at LSU Health Shreveport for their residency, with 41.8% of students matching at an LSU site. 44.5% of students will stay in Louisiana.

What Are The Entry Requirements For LSU? 

Applicants to LSU Health Shreveport must complete the online AMCAS and LSU Health Shreveport secondary applications. Components of a completed file include:

• Verified AMCAS application
• Letters of Recommendation – submitted via AMCAS Letter Service only
• Submitted Secondary Application
• Paid application fee or AMCAS fee waiver verification
• Uploaded photo (requested, but not required)

For coursework, this is what’s required:

Early Decision Program

LSU also offers an Early Decision Program (EDP) for exceptionally motivated, capable, and passionate applicants who are sure that LSU Health Shreveport is their first choice. The Admissions Committee reviews EDP applicants in August of the application year.

Internets’ Opinion on LSU Shreveport

Here are some more comments from around the web which stand out regarding the pros and cons of LSU Shreveport Medical School. 

Positive Opinion

1. Students receive the top choice for residency

Everyone who graduates becomes a doctor. Bottom line. I feel as though this survey was for an undergraduate college, however, medical school is very important and we all leave knowing enough to be working. Most students receive their top choice for residency here.

2. Good Environment

Every class is interesting and important and we have great tools to help us succeed, including help for staff. Our class stayed together all four years (125 of us) and we all learned from each other.

Negative Opinion

1. Campus safety issues

[The school] is generally safe but only very near the campus. Otherwise very unsafe at times. Need to be careful at night walking alone.

Conclusion: Is LSU Shreveport A Good Medical School? 

LSU Shreveport might be a good choice for med school. It offers good research opportunities, a combined-degree option, a fair cost of living in North Louisiana, good extracurriculars with the close support of a well-structured student affairs office, and good financial aid options. But there are clear disadvantages, such its prestige, and the fact that it is not very friendly for out-of-the-state.

Related Articles

• Best Medical Schools In Louisiana

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

I’ve researched the top courses that deliver exactly that and listed them in this article.

Here’s what else we’ll cover:

• Accredited online precalculus courses from top colleges
• Recommended free/cheap options
• What to expect from studying precalc online

Ready to learn more about what’s out there? Let’s go.

Best Accredited Online Precalculus Course Listings

Here’s a quick overview of all the recommended courses listed in this article…

1. Precalculus – MAT 170 (Arizona State University)

This precalculus is part of ASU Universal Learner® Courses. This college-level course prepares you for calculus by focusing on quantitative reasoning and functions.

They expect students to set the skills to describe the behavior and properties of linear, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, rational, and trigonometric functions.

After the course, students should be able to:

1. Use introductory algebraic operations on numbers, expressions, and equations
2. Apply algebraic and trigonometric reasoning to crack a range of problems
3. Solve real-world application problems
4. Begin future studies in calculus

The school provides individualized coaches as you move through each new subject and utilize the ALEKS learning system. It delivers students a personalized experience since they will be instructed on the topics they are most ready to learn.

Students may opt between a self-paced version or an instructor-led one in this course. In the first case, the course allows students to complete course assignments at their own pace, as long as they are completed within a year. But if you opt for an instructor-led, courses have a structure with a weekly assignment due dates and an instructor guiding a student through the curriculum and content. You must finish it within 16 weeks.

Here’s a sample video from the precalc course that gives some insight into teaching style/what to expect…

Details:

• Name: Precalculus – MAT 170
• Institution: Arizona State University
• Level: Undergraduate
• Credits: 3 credit hours
• Prerequisites: MAT 117 College Algebra is strongly suggested as a prerequisite
• Length: 16 weeks
• Hours: Self-paced
• Website: ea.asu.edu/precalculus-mat-170
• Price: $25 + $400

2. Precalculus – MAT201 (StraighterLine)

This StraighterLine course provides instruction and review of standard concepts of college-level math. It will help you get into General Calculus I.

Read: 6 Online Calculus Courses For College Credit

It covers the following:

1. Reviewing algebraic operations and linear and polynomial equations
2. Solving and graph equations from linear and polynomial to exponential and logarithmic functions
3. Trigonometric expressions and functions
4. Modeling and solving applications using linear systems
5. Geometric sequences

YouTuber Josh Madakor gives a breakdown of StraighterLine’s calculus offerings. He suggests midterms and finals are proctored but that scoring 100% on ongoing quizzes and homework is fairly straightforward meaning you can skip the final…

Details:

• Name: Precalculus – MAT201
• Institution: StraighterLine
• Level: undergraduate
• Credits: 3 college credits
• Prerequisites: StraighterLine suggests, though does not require, that students take College Algebra or its equivalent before enrolling in precalculus
• Length: less than 30 days
• Hours: self-paced
• Website: straighterline.com/precalculus
• Price: $59 + Membership

3. Precalculus – MATH 1011 (University of New England)

The University of New England’s course prepares students for subsequent college-level calculus. It reviews the prerequisite mathematical concepts necessary for calculus.

Topics covered include:

1. Rational functions
2. Trigonometric functions
3. Polar coordinates
4. Sequences and series
5. Probability
6. A brief introduction to continuity

After concluding the course, students should then be able to:

• Construct graphs of rational and trigonometric functions
• Interpret information (graphical) of rational and trigonometric functions
• Solve trigonometric functions
• Graph equations in polar coordinates
• Using trigonometric identities, determine angle measures and side lengths of triangles 
• Communicate algebraic facility of trigonometric functions concerning real-world applications
• Solve counting problems using combinations and permutations
• Evaluate mathematical series
• Compute probabilities of events using counting theory and probability models
• Identify the continuity of a function
• Find the limits of a function

The exams are all taken online, and, as a lecture-only course, the University doesn’t have associated lab components.

Classes begin every two or three weeks, and students must be registered for them by noon EST the Monday before class starts. The course works out at around $1,140.

The video below gives a very short intro to UNE’s Online program…

Details:

• Name: Precalculus – MATH 1011
• Institution: University of New England
• Level: upper-level undergraduate
• Credits: 3 credits
• Prerequisites: a semester of college-level algebra (MATH 1010)
• Length: 16 weeks
• Hours: self-paced
• Website: online.une.edu/precalculus/
• Price: $1,140

4. Precalculus – Math 165 (University of North Dakota)

This University of North Dakota precalculus online curriculum meets all the typical topics for a Precalculus college course and is a great option.

The main topics in this course are equations and inequalities, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, and algebraic and trigonometric methods.

Students have 3 to 9 months to finish three proctored exams and 24 lessons from the enrollment date.

The video below provides a quick run-down of how online programs work at UND…

Details:

• Name: Calculus I – Math 165
• Institution: University of North Dakota
• Level: Undergraduate
• Credits: 4 credits
• Prerequisites: MATH 93, Math 98, or Math Placement Exam score
• Length: 3 to 9 months
• Hours: Self-paced
• Website: und.edu/math165
• Price: $370.08 per credit

5. Precalculus – MATH-40018 (UC San Diego Extension)

This UC San Diego Extension is another good option for precalculus. It covers all the basic requirements for this level of math, including:

• Transformation of functions, circular functions and their graphs, the Laws and properties associated with Trigonometric functions
• Complex numbers
• Power, exponential and logarithmic functions
• Polynomial functions
• Systems of equations and inequalities.

According to their website, the course goals include:

1. Analyzing functions and graphs
2. Applying polynomial and rational Functions to real-life problems
3. Solving problems, including exponential and logarithmic Functions
4. Assessing the behavior of trigonometric functions
5. Using systems of equations and inequalities to solve complex models

Details:

• Name: Precalculus – MATH-40018
• Institution: UC San Diego Extension
• Level: undergraduate
• Credits: 3 credits
• Prerequisites: Basic Mathematics
• Length: 2 months
• Hours: self-paced
• Website: extendedstudies.ucsd.edu/precalculus-1
• Price: $675

6. Precalculus – MATH X9 (Berkeley Extension)

The Berkeley precalculus program exposes students to basic and advanced algebra concepts and some trigonometry.

It covers:

1. Logarithms
2. Solving or graphing linear equations
3. Factoring a polynomial

All the topics are more advanced level than that of a beginning or intermediate algebra class.

Still, it’s an excellent option to give you the prereqs you need to study in future calculus classes. At $895 it’s pretty cost-effective too.

There’s a quick essentials intro video to the course below…

Details:

• Name: Precalculus – MATH X9
• Institution: Berkeley Extension
• Credits: 3 credit hours
• Prerequisites: Two years of high school algebra and one year of high school geometry
• Length: 180 days
• Hours: self-paced
• Website: extension.berkeley.edu
• Price: $895.00

Free/Low-Cost Online Precalculus Courses

The following courses, although not “officially” accredited, are still good options for students looking to take structured precalc courses to help in the preparation for exams and further education.

1. Precalculus (ASU/edX)

Arizona State University offers an excellent option of a free precalculus course through edX. It is a free version of the Precalculus – MAT 170 we pointed out before, meaning everything we said earlier fits here too!

It is self-paced, and an average student should conclude it in approximately 15 weeks.

For $49, you can choose a verified track and enjoy unlimited access to course materials, a shareable certificate upon completion, and graded assignments and exams.

Details:

• Name: Precalculus – MAT 170
• Institution: Arizona State University
• Level: Undergraduate
• Credits: 3 credit hours
• Prerequisites: MAT117 College Algebra & Problem Solving
• Length: 15 weeks
• Hours: Self-paced
• Website: edx.org/precalculus
• Price: Free

Related Questions

What Are The Most Important Things To Look For In An Online Precalculus Course?

Precalculus, for newcomers, can be confusing. But learning it online can be just as effective as taking a class in person.

To get the best out of an online course you’ll want to look for the following qualities:

• Structure: how well are the course goals defined and the curriculum laid out?
• Time commitment: does the course give you a rough estimate of how much time you’ll need to commit to it each week?
• Cost: does it fit your budget?
• Instruction: is the teaching professor suitably qualified and delivering the classes in an easy-to-understand format?
• Prerequisites: what level of knowledge should you have before starting the course?
• Support: once signed up, how much support is available to you to help meet your goals?
• Assessment: how isyour knowledge and progress assessed?

Many of these questions are answered in the introductory table at the beginning of this article.

Anything else should be researched via your own criteria and the contact you make with course providers.

Good luck!

What Study Tips Can I Use For Precalculus?

Precalculus, like most other STEM subjects, is best studied by actively working through problem sets and building on your knowledge as you go.

Rote memorization can be done via an effective spaced-repetition system (we recommend Anki) but the real learning comes in applying that knowledge to exam-style practice problems.

The video below provides lots of useful tips on performing well in the subject…

If you found this article useful, you might find the following interesting:

• 8 Best Online Physics Courses For College Credit
• 6 Online Statistics Courses For College Credit
• Do Medical Schools Require Calculus?

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com

MIT has an excellent college reputation, but does it stack up for pre-med? Here’s what we know about MIT’s pre-med offering (and if it’s right for you)…

Quick Answer: Is MIT Good For Pre-Med In 2022?

MIT is a super prestigious and top-rank school with great resources and opportunities for pre-med. It’s an excellent choice for students that want to excel in science and engineering and live among brilliant peers and professors. Still, its classes are challenging, especially in the sciences, and it doesn’t seem easy to maintain a high GPA.

Attending MIT is also by no means a guarantee of admission to any med school, but its prestige and resources might help put you on the right path. Of course, you’ll still have to have an excellent GPA and MCAT scores, and there’s where MIT (due to its competitive student intake) could make things difficult.

Does MIT Offer Pre-Med?

Like most schools, MIT doesn’t offer a pre-med or a pre-health major. It means students may pursue whatever major they want and take classes in any department.

But to apply to any health-related professional school (such as medical, dental, etc.) is necessary to fulfill a few requirements. MIT students interested in a medical career are encouraged to make a registration meeting with their Prehealth Advising (led by Aleshia Carlsen-Bryan) in the spring of their sophomore year.

They will help you explore different paths and programs and prepare for and apply to top med schools. They try to demystify the application process by sharing experience and expertise in researching all the programs, understanding the prerequisites and requirements, writing critical essays, and preparing for interviews.

MIT Pre-Med Requirements

Each med school has its courses and competencies to gain admission. Prehealth Advising recommends you take all the required courses at MIT, but it is fine if you can’t since you can take classes at another university or post-baccalaureate and special master’s programs.

Related: 11 Best Accredited Online Biochemistry Courses [2022]

In general, med schools require their applicants to complete the following courses:

• General Biology w/ Lab (2 semesters)
• General Chemistry w/ Lab (2 semesters)
• Organic Chemistry I (1 semester)
• Biochemistry (1 semester)
• Math (2 semesters, statistics recommended)
• Physics (2 semesters)
• English/Writing & Humanities (2 semesters)

MIT Prehealth Advising has created a guide for pre-meds pointing out the courses and competencies MIT students should take to fulfill med school requirements. These cover:

• General Biology with lab (2 semesters):

1) Introductory Biology (7.012, 7.013, 7.014, 7.015, or 7.016)

and one of the following:

2) Fundamentals of Experimental Molecular Biology (7.002) or Laboratory Fundamentals in Biological Engineering (20.109) or Experimental Molecular Neurobiology (9.12) or Biological Circuit Engineering Laboratory (20.129[J])

• General and Organic Chemistry (3 semesters):

1) Principles of Chemical Science (5.111 or 5.112) or Intro to Solid State Chemistry (3.091), and

2) Organic Chemistry I (5.12).

• Biochemistry (1 semester):

1) General Biochemistry (7.05) or Biological Chemistry (5.07/20.507)

• Physics (2 semesters):

1) Physics I (8.01) and

2) Physics II (8.02) or equivalent

• Math (2 semesters):

1) Calculus (18.01) and

2) Calculus II (18.02) or equivalent

• English/Writing and Humanities (2 semesters):

1) Courses in writing and humanities that satisfy the CI-H requirement.

An advantage of being pre-med at MIT is that 9 of the 12 required courses for med school are also General Institute Requirements (GIR), which makes the path to your major shorter. Ironically, we can say that at MIT, almost everyone is pre-med by default because of the GIR. Besides this requirement, the lecture and lab portion of classes are separate at MIT, giving students more time to cover the same material.

What’s Good About MIT Pre-Med

• There are a ridiculous number of opportunities (UROPs, MISTI, Camp Kesem, the proximity of hospitals, etc.)
• Every med school advisor helps their advisees through the process, complementing the series of presentations/talks that the pre-health office organizes to guide and resource current applicants.
• MIT has a pre-health office that has streamlined the medical school process and made everything easy to follow and understand.
• Pre-med students at MIT offer a unique perspective on medicine: that of a joint scientist-engineer-philanthropist.
• It’s super prestigious and some of MIT’s pre-meds were explicitly told at their med school interview that being an applicant from MIT immediately set them apart from other applicants.
• MIT students excel in science and engineering and live among brilliant peers and professors, all in an environment that is unrivaled.
• The atmosphere at MIT is one of collaboration, not cut-throat competition.
• the research at MIT is not only ground-breaking but also plentiful and easily accessible to undergraduates.
• The nice thing about the rigor of the classes at MIT is that the subject matter and questions on the MCAT are relatively simple by comparison.
• The best part about being a pre-med at MIT is the support you get from staff, the prehealth office, and my classmates. The pre-med culture at MIT is decidedly uncompetitive.
• MIT is exceptional because it allows you to be unconventional and still succeed.

Clinical Experience

MIT is in Cambridge, just a few minutes walking from Boston, and its outstanding infrastructure and opportunities. You can find exceptional volunteering opportunities at Boston Children’s Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, among many others.

Related: 8 Best Hospital Volunteer Opportunities In Boston! (2022)

And to help you connect with professionals, MIT Prehealth Advising runs a half-day or full-day physician shadowing program at local hospitals.

Another great source of information and opportunities at MIT is clubs and organizations, and the MIT Pre-Medical Society is an excellent place to start.

Research Experience

MIT’s Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) ensures that everyone who wants to conduct high-level research can do so. As a result, it’s usual for undergraduates to be published as the first authors on scientific papers and present their research at conferences.

Participating in independent research shows responsibility and creativity valuable to any employer or graduate school.

Related: What Counts As Research Experience For Medical School?

Civic Engagement

Service is a large part of healthcare, and medical schools want to know that you genuinely care about serving people. And MIT’s Summers/IAPs are great for doing service!

During the school year, you can also find great opportunities for volunteering at local organizations and in student clubs, like:

• Globemed
• Global Poverty Initiative
• Leadership Training Institute
• Community Work-Study
• Amphibious Achievement
• Alternative Spring Break

What’s Bad About MIT Pre-Med

Here are the more concerning opposing sides of being pre-med at MIT:

• Classes have the reputation of being incredibly difficult, especially in the sciences.
• It doesn’t seem very easy to maintain a high GPA at MIT.
• There are a few complaints about grade deflation.
• It’s an understatement to say that As are not as easy to come by as they might be elsewhere.
• Many pre-meds can’t manage to get into med school.

Are You At An Advantage Getting Into Harvard Medicine?

MIT doesn’t have a medical school, but it runs a popular joint MD-PhD program with Harvard Medical School (HMS) and offers a Harvard-MIT program in Health Sciences and Technology (HST). After in-depth research, we couldn’t find any evidence of advantages for MIT students to get into Harvard medicine, however.

MIT’s Pre-Med Acceptance Rate

For 2021, the BCPM GPA for accepted MIT applicants was 4.71/5.0, and the Cumulative GPA was 4.74/5.0. The range of accepted GPAs was ~3.9 – 5.0. The acceptance rate for MIT’s 2021 cohort was 74% for MD applicants and 90% for MD-PhD applicants.

What MIT Majors Are Best For Pre-Meds?

The most common pre-med majors at MIT are:

• Biology
• Brain and Cognitive Sciences
• Biological Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Chemistry
• Computer Science and Molecular Biology

We believe these majors are the most popular because they are more directly related to medicine, and some pre-med requirements can be satisfied by the major’s requirements.

Related: What’s The Easiest Pre Med Major? (Read This First!)

Is MIT Good For Biology?

MIT ranks at #2 in College Factual’s most recent rankings. It is in the top 1% of the country for biology, and it is also ranked #1 in Massachusetts.

Is MIT Good For Pre-Med? Internet’s Opinion

The rest of the web is a great place to go to find unbiased information about a college, and it’s no different with MIT. Here are a few comments on Quora that seem helpful…

I would claim that it is unnecessarily difficult to get into medical school coming from MIT. Because the grades are much more challenging to get than at state schools (schools like Berkeley and UCLA are exceptions), and very little credence is given to students from elite schools.

All that being said, once you get into Medical School, your MIT is actually more impressive than your medical school diploma, even if you come from Harvard or Johns Hopkins medical school.

I’m on faculty at a medical school. Everyone I work with is a doctor. None of them are impressed by my medical degree. All of them are impressed that I went to MIT.

– Mitul Mehta, SB Finance, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2003)

I went to UCSF med school. At my interview, I was explicitly told that being an applicant from MIT immediately set me apart from other applicants. UCSF, for price, quality/value, location was my top choice med school, and I got in. I had a (very hard earned) 4.7/5.0 at MIT, so far from perfect but something I was very proud of.

– Sheri Marquez, studied Bachelor of Science in Biology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Conclusion: Is MIT Good For Pre-Med?

MIT has an excellent reputation for pre-med. You;ll undoubtedly be well prepared on the track for med school, but classes here might make it tough to get a stellar GPA. Definitely, something to consider!

For more info on what pre-med life could be like for you here, check out this video from a pre-med student who became a published researcher…

Related: 4 Best Pre-Med Schools In Massachusetts (Key Info & Data)

Julian Farret

Writer | Lawyer | PhD Student at @DerechoUCA and @UFPel
I spend most of my time washing dishes, changing diapers, playing doll/ball/house/doctor/cooking with my daughter, and making my son sleep. I write and read about education, philosophy, law, religion, finance, and real estate when there is some time left. And I usually don’t sleep!

julienfarret.com