The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required by almost all medical schools. The MCAT is a multiple-choice test that assesses a students' analytical, writing and critical thinking skills as well as their understanding of science concepts. Scores of one to 15, with one being the lowest and 15 being the highest, are given in verbal reasoning, biological sciences, and physical sciences. Students also complete and are scored on two essays. The essays are scored on a J through T scale with a "J" being the lowest and a "T" being the highest. "The Princeton Review" reports that the average score on the verbal reasoning, biological sciences, and physical sciences sections is an eight, while the average score for the writing test is an "O."
Students considering medical college must generally complete a core set of classes. The AAMC finds that most colleges require students to complete one year of biology, one year of physics, one year of English and two years of chemistry, including organic chemistry. Some schools may require additional classes such as calculus, computer science or advanced-level science. The grades earned in all courses are considered as part of the student's grade point average (GPA). Medical colleges look at both the overall GPA and the GPA earned in science classes. According to "The Princeton Review," a student's GPA is one of the most important criteria for admission.
Many medical colleges accept preliminary applications through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). This entity makes the application process easier for students by allowing them to submit a single application to many schools. A preliminary application typically asks for a student's transcripts, MCAT scores, personal statement and list of extracurricular activities. For schools that do not participate in AMCAS, students can contact the admissions office directly. If a preliminary application is accepted, students will move on to a second application. In this next stage, more detailed information is needed. A second application may include additional essays, letters of recommendation or a face-to-face interview.
As part of the second phase of an admissions process, medical colleges will ask students to submit multiple letters of recommendation. Colleges use these letters to assess a student's character and qualifications. Indiana University at Bloomington finds that most medical colleges will require at least three letters, with two letters coming from professors. Generally, a student submits a letter of recommendation from at least one, if not two, science professors as well as a humanities professor and a personal reference. Although three letters are required, students can submit more.
The second part of an admissions process can also include face-to-face interviews with faculty members, other medical students or admissions representatives at the medical college. The purpose of the interview is to give the college an idea of how the student presents herself and how she would interact with patients. Interviews are reserved for those students who are seriously being considered for admission. Interview procedures vary from college to college and may include an entire panel or just one person. Questions can range from the personal to the psychological to the professional.