Medical School Admission & Application

Admission Tests (MCAT, DAT)

Application Services

Admission Tests

Allopathic, osteopathic and podiatric medical schools require all candidates for admission to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), an exam that is administered in the later summer and spring of each year by the American College Testing Service. This exam, which should not be attempted before all introductory science courses are complete, is typically taken during the spring of the junior year. If not satisfied with the results, the student may retake the MCAT in the late summer of the rising senior year without delaying application to medical school.

Students interested in dental medicine are required to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) which is offered in the spring and fall of each year.

Application Services

Most allopathic, osteopathic, podiatric and dental medical schools use centralized application services. Through these centralized services, students make a single application which is then routed to participating medical schools. Initial screening of applicants is made at this time. Following favorable results, individual medical schools request supplemental information and recommendations. Continued favorable review will lead to an interview, followed by a decision on the student's candidacy.