Applying

The first step in preparing an application to health profession school is an honest self evaluation. It is critical to determine not only whether you are a well qualified applicant, but also whether you can make space in your life for the application process itself. 

Successful applicants to health profession schools exceed the schools' minimum requirements and begin work on the application process early, leaving plenty of time for self reflection and writing the strongest possible application.

Connect with the pre-health office about your application at least two years in advance of when you hope to enter professional school, and meet early and regularly with the pre-health advisor. Create a spreadsheet to record each aspect of the application process you need to complete, for every school to which you apply. Pay special attention to deadlines, and send your materials well in advance.

When should I apply?

The precise time when you are fully qualified and personally ready to apply is different for everyone. Applying to professional school is time consuming, costly, and emotionally taxing. It is never advisable to apply “just to see what happens,” especially if you know and/or are counseled that your qualifications do not make you a competitive applicant. 

Learn about professional school qualifications and self assessment.

Most Mount Holyoke graduates complete 1-2 years of work, or a graduate degree, before attending professional school. 

Key reasons why entering professional school 1-2 years after graduation is often the right choice:

• Health profession schools place a high value on work and life experience. Because admission committees seek to admit applicants who display professional qualities such as responsibility, maturity, strong communication skills, and respect for others, experience outside of academics usually enhances an application.

• Having completed your undergraduate degree at the time you apply means that professional schools have your full undergraduate record to evaluate. This is beneficial to most applicants.

• Using your time to apply to and interview for professional school during your junior and senior years may prevent you from fully taking advantage of new and ongoing interests that may be less accessible after you graduate. Taking advantage of opportunities such as studying abroad, writing a thesis, or taking courses in a range of disciplines can help you to grow as a person. These pursuits enhance your qualifications for professional school and will help you excel in your future professional life.

What should I do with my gap year(s)?