Complete all of the required courses and take extras. Start taking Advanced Placement classes in high school to get a head start on your pre-med college program. Once you have applied and been accepted at an undergraduate university, use any extra time you have to take extra classes that apply to your interest in becoming a doctor. Make your transcripts stand out from the other applicants by taking advanced or graduate level courses whenever possible.
Maintain an excellent balance between academics and extracurricular activities. Top tier medical schools looks for students who know how to balance their time well because this shows that they are likely capable of handling the large workload associate with medical school. Volunteer at your college or university as often as you can. You must also keep your GPA as high as possible, since many medical schools require at least a 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Prepare for the MCAT exam, which is a required standardized test that all medical school applicants must take. Many top tier schools require excellent scores, so it is important to begin preparing for the exam as early as possible. Take your first full-length practice test about eight months to one year before the test date. Sign up for tutoring or a preparation class if you feel you need extra help.
Apply early. Although it is important to apply to a top tier medical school as early as possible, it is also important not to rush through your application. Begin working on your applications ahead of time so you have the time to have your personal statement looked over and edited. You should also apply to many different top tier schools, even if you do not feel qualified for acceptance.
Take your interview seriously. Practice for the interview at your college's career services center if they offer mock interviews. Dress up for your interview so that you look professional. Be yourself in your interview. Make sure to let your passion for medicine shine through in the interview. Remember that if you get asked to participate in an interview the school already has some interest in you, so you should feel confident and excited.
Ask for recommendation letters well in advance of when they are due in order to ensure that you get the best letters possible. Ask professors or employers that know you well, understand your passion and dedication for medicine and can attest to your work ethic.