Finding Schools

Safety vs target vs reach schools

• Safety Schools: Schools where you are well above the admission threshold, ensuring a higher chance of acceptance.

• Target Schools: Schools where your GPA and MCAT score are within or above their accepted range.

• Reach Schools: Highly competitive schools where your stats might be lower than the average accepted applicant.

Other Factors to Consider:

• Location and cost

  • Where do you want to live? 

  • Do you need/want to take out a loan? 

  • Public or private?

• Curriculum structure (traditional vs. problem-based learning) and grading style (pass/fail or modified pass/fails)

• Special programs (MD/PhD, DO Osteopathic programs, global health tracks, etc.)

• Think about what your long term goals are. Why are you going to medical school? What’s your end goal?

  • Research and clinical opportunities that different places offer that can advance your interests and your long term professional goals.