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A completed application includes:
A submitted online application (includes 4-5 short essay questions, approximately 250 words each)
One academic letter of recommendation from a faculty member or instructor (preferably at least one science faculty member or instructor)
One professional letter of recommendation from an advisor, mentor, community leader, or employer
Official or unofficial transcript from your institution(s)
An updated CV or resume
What to Expect after Application Submission:
Acceptances via Email by March 29th, 2027
Complete Onboarding Forms (Housing, Payment and Michigan Medicine Credentials Communication)
Communication from Braini McKenzie (braini@med.umich.edu)
What are we looking for in a successful applicant?
What are we looking for in a successful applicant?
See below for a list of competencies we assess through your complete application:
Motivation and Purpose in Medicine
The Reviewer Focus: Look for a clear, authentic sense of why the applicant is drawn to medicine, how they connect personal experiences to this path, and whether their goals feel purposeful and sustained.
Commitment to Service and Community Impact
The Reviewer Focus: Assess the applicant’s sense of social responsibility, their understanding of community needs or inequities, and how their goals extend beyond personal success.
Understanding of Research and Lifelong Learning
The Reviewer Focus: Look for intellectual curiosity, understanding of the research process, and how research connects to medical practice and personal growth.
Understanding of the MCAT & Lifelong Learning
The Reviewer Focus: Assess the applicant’s understanding of the MCAT as part of professional and intellectual growth, not just a test to be passed. Look for evidence of a growth mindset, commitment to disciplined learning, and self-awareness about how preparation through CDA supports long-term success in medicine.
Teamwork and Collaboration Skills
The Reviewer Focus: Evaluate collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and reflection. Look for clear examples showing role, contribution, and insight into team success or challenges.
Personal Reflection and Growth
The Reviewer Focus: Assess self-awareness, maturity, and ability to learn from experiences. Look for growth, insight, and connection between personal development and future goals.
Application FAQs
Application FAQs
What’s the acceptance rate for CDA and URA?
Acceptance rates vary by program and year. For the most recent application cycle, 57% of CDA students accepted, while 28.9% URA applicants were accepted. While admission is competitive, we strongly encourage all eligible students to apply!
Should I apply to URA or CDA? Can I apply to both?
Yes! You can apply to both CDA and URA; however, you may only be accepted into one program.
If you are a rising sophomore and/or are interested in gaining exposure to medicine and health sciences, we highly encourage you to consider URA. Rising juniors and seniors may be a good candidate for CDA, which focuses on MCAT preparation and preparation for the medical school application process.
Do students on the quarterly term schedule qualify for the programs?
Yes. However, students on the quarterly term schedule may need to miss the first week of the program due to scheduling conflicts. We encourage you to apply! If you are unsure whether your current course schedule will align with the URA or CDA program dates, please reach out to ha-summerprograms@med.umich.edu so we can discuss your schedule and eligibility.
Are only students from specific schools considered?
No. We encourage students from a wide range of institutions to apply, including public and private colleges and universities, HBCUs, HSIs, and other four-year institutions. We welcome applications from students across different institutional backgrounds.
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