So, what are the best medical schools in the US? I’ve got you covered! This year’s list features 50 incredible schools, ranging from big research universities to smaller, cozy colleges.
Using the latest medical school rankings (2024) from College Consensus, which combines several popular ranking systems into one comprehensive list, I’ve organized a super handy table that breaks down what you need to know most about each school. This data can help you narrow down your options and ultimately find the school that’s just right for you.
Your dream school might just be a quick scroll away! And if you’re worried that getting into one of these top medical schools in the US might be only in your wildest dreams, keep reading to discover my proven tips for boosting your chances of receiving that coveted acceptance letter.
Spoiler alert – I got accepted to a total of three medical schools on this list, despite applying with a 3.3 GPA! More about that later.
This post is all about best medical schools in the US.
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Updated List of Best Medical Schools In The US
What Are the Top Medical Schools in the US?
The following table gives you a quick, skimmable breakdown of the 50 best medical schools in the US based on the recent College Consensus rankings. As you work on your list of places to apply, you can use this table to find the most important info you need at a glance.
What Factors Contributed to Ranking Each Medical School?
College Consensus takes a unique approach to ranking schools. To calculate a “consensus score” for each school, they crunch the numbers from the following well-known and established ranking systems.
- U.S. News & World Report
- QS World University Rankings
- CEO World
- Shanghai Ranking
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings
So how did they decide which schools belong in the top spots? College Consensus used the following criteria to calculate each medical school’s placement on the ranking list.
- Student Admission Standards: Schools that set high admission standards for students often rank higher.
- Acceptance Rates: Medical schools with lower acceptance rates tend to rank higher because they are more selective in their admissions process.
- Average GPA and MCAT Scores: The higher the average GPA and MCAT scores of admitted students, the more likely the school’s ranking will be higher as well.
- Faculty Qualifications: The expertise of the faculty also factors into consideration.
- Resources: Schools with ample support for research, clinical practice, and student support tend to rank higher.
- Tuition Costs: The cost of tuition and financial aid options available influence how each medical school ranks.
- Graduation Rates: The percentage of students who successfully graduate from a medical school helps determine each ranking.
- Research Intensity: Research-intensive medical schools are evaluated based on funding levels, faculty accomplishments, and ongoing studies.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Increasingly, schools that prioritize diversity by including students from various backgrounds are ranked higher.
What Does It Take to Get Accepted into One of the Best Medical Schools in the US?
You’re aiming to attend one of the best medical schools in the US, but you’re surely well aware that it’s no easy feat! However, with the right mindset and dedication, it can realistically come within your reach. Getting accepted to a top medical school requires taking the right steps as a premed and a smart strategy during the application cycle.
How to Improve Your Candidacy As a Premed
Here are the most impactful ways you can boost your chances of getting into these top-tier medical schools.
- Rock the MCAT. Create a study plan and stick to it consistently to help you achieve a competitive MCAT score that will make those medical schools take notice.
- Ace your GPA. Keep those grades up! A competitive GPA can give you an initial edge that’ll help you progress in the medical school admissions process.
- Get that Clinical Experience. Whether you shadow a doctor, volunteer at a hospital, or work in a clinic, set a goal of getting 100 to 150 hours or more of hands-on clinical experience.
- Consider getting Research hours. Research experience can be a major plus on your application. If you have the opportunity, pursue a research project that interests you.
- Volunteer, Volunteer, Volunteer! Medical school admission committees love to see applicants who are committed to making a difference in their communities. Find causes you’re passionate about and get involved by volunteering!
- Step Up as a Leader. Taking on leadership roles shows initiative and the ability to work well with others. Whether it’s in a club, organization, or community group, get out there and lead the way.
- Make time for meaningful Extracurriculars. Quality over quantity, folks! Choose extracurricular activities that you genuinely care about and, perhaps, are a bit unique to help you stand out.
Steps to Increase Your Chances During the Application Cycle
You can set yourself up for success during the medical school application cycle. You can also increase your chances of getting accepted into the best medical schools in the US by following this strategic approach.
- Round up high-quality Letters of Recommendation. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak passionately about your abilities and character. Request letters of recommendation from professors, healthcare professionals, and other notable people early in your preparation for the application process. Then, send follow-up reminders as the primary application deadlines loom closer.
- Make it a priority to Apply Early! Procrastination puts you at a disadvantage. Medical school applications are often highly time-sensitive, especially if the admissions committee uses a rolling acceptance policy. So make sure to submit your primary application as soon as possible. This will increase your chances of spots still being open.
- Craft a compelling Personal Statement: Your personal statement is your chance to shine. Show the admissions committee who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Most importantly, share why you’re passionate about medicine.
- Select your Medical School List intentionally. Research various medical schools to find the ones that align with your values, goals, and strengths. Always check for residency bias to avoid wasting time, energy, and the application fee on a school that may reject you based on your home state. Also, make sure your list includes a healthy mix of reach, target, and safety schools.
Be Extra Ready For Secondaries
- Craft captivating Secondary Essays. Your essays offer an amazing opportunity to showcase further why you’re a great fit for a particular medical school. Share your unique story and allow your passion for becoming a doctor to come through in your writing. Also, tailor your responses to each school to further demonstrate your genuine interest.
- Prepare for your Interviews. If you’re fortunate enough to earn an interview, make sure you’ve done everything you can to walk in totally prepared to talk about yourself and your career aspirations in medicine. Practice common medical school interview questions, refine your communication skills, and showcase your passion for medicine. Be ready to discuss your experiences, values, and motivations.
I personally got accepted to three of the schools on this list, although I had a lower GPA of 3.3 – since I managed to reach a higher MCAT score of 516 and improve every single other factor in my control during the application process. You’ll learn my key strategies in this Free Premed Workshop:
Does Ranking Really Matter for Your Path as a Future Physician?
Well, yes and no. While it makes total sense to consider rankings, don’t make them your one and only deciding factor when choosing a medical school that’s just right for you.
When, Yes, Ranking Does Matter
Your medical school’s ranking can influence getting into residency programs. Being a graduate of a highly regarded US medical school will definitely catch the eye of the program directors, but it’s not the only thing they look at.
However, keep in mind that with USMLE Step 1 transitioning into a pass/fail test, your medical school’s reputation might become a more important factor in your future residency selection.
Why, No, Ranking Shouldn’t Completely Dictate Where You Apply
But wait – before you become totally obsessed with each school’s ranking, stop and think about what matters most to you. Remember, you’ll be spending a big chunk of your career in medicine at that school, so it has to be the right fit for you. If research isn’t your cup of tea, going to a top research school might not be all that appealing to you. Also, keep in mind that where you attend medical school can influence where you end up doing your residency.
So, think about your goals, your values, and what environment would bring out the best in you. Rankings are one thing, but finding a school that resonates with you on a personal level should take priority. Beyond the medical school’s ranking, consider the school’s location, the curriculum’s structure, the level of support offered, the amount of patient interaction, and the overall learning environment as you make your decision.
FAQs
Still wondering what it takes to secure a spot in one of these prestigious institutions? I hear you! Here are a few extra pieces of advice based on your top questions.
What MCAT score do you need to get into one of the best medical schools?
Well, the answer can vary depending on the specific school, but generally, top medical schools look for MCAT scores of 515 and above. Understandably, that number seems high. But personally, as someone who scored 516, I can confidently say that you can achieve your dream score with a strategic approach to covering all the material and a consistent study plan.
Do I have a chance with a lower GPA?
Yes, you can still get accepted with a lower GPA – however, it’s going to take some extra effort. Certainly, scoring in the upper percentiles of the MCAT can do wonders to offset your less-than-stellar grades, like my 516 MCAT score did for my 3.3 GPA. Also, focus on earning a higher science GPA and on showing an upward trend in your grades (which I did). You may want to complete a post-baccalaureate program or a special master’s program to prove that you can handle the academic rigors of medical school.
Although a GPA of 3.5 or higher is ideal, remember your GPA is just one piece of the application puzzle. Your clinical experience, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal statement all can go far in helping you showcase how much of a well-rounded and impressive candidate you are when applying to top medical schools.
Which of these top medical schools in the US is easiest to get in?
The Indiana University School of Medicine, with a 6% acceptance rate, is a challenging but potentially rewarding choice for getting into one of the best medical schools. Their holistic review process evaluates applicants’ overall candidacy for medical school. By showcasing your authentic self and diverse experiences on your application, you can increase your chances of acceptance. Additionally, with an average MCAT score of just about 512, which is below the standards of most schools on this list. Keep in mind though that they do favor in-state applicants, in case you are not an Indiana resident.
If you want to increase your chances as an out-of-state applicant, another “easier” option among those best medical schools might be the University of Cincinnati in Ohio, especially if your stats aren’t your prime asset. With a median 506 MCAT score and a GPA of 3.6 for matriculated students, this school may have a much lower entry barrier and focuses on a more holistic view beyond just the numbers.
What are my chances of getting accepted?
The acceptance rates for medical schools can vary a lot, as shown in the table above. Generally, having a GPA and MCAT score above the median can increase your chances of getting in.
But don’t stress too much about just the numbers! Medical schools look at applications holistically, which means they consider more than just your stats. Your personal statement, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and experiences all factor into the admissions decision.
So, when creating your school list, have a mix of “safety schools” where your stats align well with their average accepted student, as well as some “reach schools” because, heck yeah, it’s worth a try. You may have underestimated your application and end up scoring an acceptance letter after all!
So, my advice to you is to put your best foot forward in every aspect of your application. Make sure to craft a well-rounded and compelling narrative about why you want to pursue a career in medicine. And remember, it’s not just about the numbers – it’s about showing the admissions committee who you are as a person and future physician.
The Bottom Line on the Best Medical Schools in the US
Alright, my friends, we’ve reached the end of the road for our journey through the best medical schools in the US! The 2024 rankings from College Consensus have given us a front-row seat to the top 50 medical schools in the country, from the big names to the hidden gems.
Now armed with this invaluable information, you’re one step closer to finding the medical school of your dreams. The right fit is out there waiting for you. However, remember, the best medical school for you may not necessarily be the highest-ranked one. It’s the one that aligns with your goals, values, and passions.
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