The road to medical school can feel like climbing Everest. You’ve probably heard those horror stories about friends or classmates getting rejected, not just once, but multiple times! The competition for admission can be fierce, and you definitely want to make sure the odds are in your favor. So, It’s no wonder if you’ve recently searched, “What are the easiest medical schools to get into?”
Fortunately, there are medical schools out there that are comparably more forgiving in their admission criteria. And understanding what factors impact their level of difficulty for admission can give you the insights you need to succeed.
Below, I’ve listed 27 of the easiest medical schools to get into. I’ll break down their requirements and also offer what you need to know about applying to these schools so you can feel empowered instead of intimidated.
This post is all about easiest medical schools to get into.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure here.
Top 27 Easiest Medical Schools To Get Into
How hard is it to get accepted into medical school?
You’ve worked hard acing your GPA, crushing the MCAT, getting involved in extracurriculars, and gathering those stellar letters of recommendation. So, what gives? Why does getting accepted to medical school still seem like such an uphill battle? It can definitely get a little nerve-wracking, especially if you’re gearing up for your second or third round of applications.
Here’s a little reality check: for the 2023-2024 admission cycle, the AAMC reported 52,577 applicants, 37,726 of whom were first-timers. Only about 22,712, or 43%, actually received acceptances and got to step foot inside a medical school.
Not everyone gets in on their first try, and that’s totally okay! Remember, the path to medical school isn’t always a straight line. After only ending up on a waitlist the first time I applied, I know all too well how bumpy, twisty, and full of unexpected detours it can be! So, if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, just know you’re not alone. Everyone’s journey is unique.
What Factors Make a Medical School Easier to Get Into?
Knowing what factors may work in your favor can totally tip the scales in your favor. Here’s the nitty-gritty of what actually makes a medical school a bit easier to get into.
Higher Acceptance Rate
If a school has a higher acceptance rate, that’s a good sign things might be less competitive. Some schools just have a whole lot of seats to fill, which means more opportunities for you! Keep an eye out for schools actively seeking diverse talent. Share what makes your candidacy unique in your personal statement, secondary essays, and during an interview.
Lower Median MCAT of Accepted Students
If you’re looking at schools where the median MCAT of accepted students is on the lower side, you might be in luck! These schools more often use a holistic admission process that focuses on your potential beyond just a number. These medical schools tend to place a stronger emphasis on your clinical experiences, extracurriculars, leadership roles, letters of recommendation, and how you communicate your passion for medicine.
Lower Median GPA of Accepted Students
Similar to the average MCAT score for admitted students, a lower median GPA can mean less pressure on your transcript! If you had a rough semester (or two… or three), don’t let it hold you back. Applying to schools that have a more forgiving GPA cut-off can offer you a great chance to shine. Remember, they’re looking at your entire application, so you still have room to showcase your strengths. Lean into the other areas of your application and highlight where you have excelled.
I didn’t decide for a premed track until sophomore year, so my grades weren’t exactly my #1 focus before that. Back then, I rather piled up more hours working as a waitress to boost my budget. Although I still managed to create an upward trend after this momentous decision to strive for medical school, my final 3.3 GPA was still considered low. So I made sure to select medical schools that still give me a solid chance and added just a few “reach schools” into the mix. A bit more about that later!
Schools Where Residency Bias is in Your Favor
Here’s a pro tip: check out schools where residency bias can give you an advantage. Some medical schools prioritize in-state students or candidates from specific backgrounds. Use this residency bias, if possible, to bump up your chances of acceptance. If you live in a state with one or more medical schools, research those institutions first to see if you can leverage this admission factor.
Conversely, be aware of residency bias working against you, especially if you’re applying out-of-state, so you don’t waste your time, energy, and resources.
MD vs. DO Schools
And yes, osteopathic medical schools (DO) tend to look more beyond your stats and on average accept students with lower GPA and MCAT scores. So if you are interested in the concepts of osteopathic medicine, DO schools are a fantastic opportunity to give your medical school application higher chances of success!
Average Stats for DO matriculants
- 3.60 GPA
- 505 MCAT score
Average Stats for MD matriculants
- 3.77 GPA
- 512 MCAT score
The 27 Easiest Medical Schools to Get Into
Use this table to discover the medical schools that offer the highest acceptance rates in the US.
List of MD Schools
List of DO Schools
| Name | Location | Acceptance Rate | Median MCAT Score | Median GPA | In-State Students Percentage |
| University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine | Portland, ME | 20% | 505 | 3.61 | 50% (includes New England) |
| William Carey U. College of Osteopathic Medicine | Hattiesburg, MS | 19.09% | 504 | 3.54 | 47.54% |
| University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine | Pikeville, KY | 16% | 499 | 3.54 | unknown |
| Nova SE U. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine | Fort Lauderdale, FL | 14.59% | 506 | 3.67 | 8.20% |
| Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine | Harrogate, TN | 9% | 500 | 3.56 | unknown |
| West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine | Lewisburg, WV | 9% | 501 | 3.59 | 49.26% |
Does a Higher Acceptance Rate Mean It’s Not as Good of a School?
Don’t fear those higher acceptance rates when you’re scouting for medical schools to add to your list. A higher acceptance rate doesn’t automatically mean that a school is “less good” or that you’re settling for mediocrity. To get a more accurate feel of the value of education they offer, check out their programs and culture and consider how these areas fit into your goals, hopes, and dreams.
Most of these schools provide high-quality programs, passionate faculty, and innovative research opportunities that may rival the more competitive ones. Just because a school isn’t turning away half of its applicants doesn’t mean it lacks amazing resources, experienced professors, and an engaged community.
Higher acceptance rates often signal a more inclusive admissions approach. These schools might be more open to a broader range of applicants, leading to a more diverse learning environment. Imagine sitting in a lecture where you’re surrounded by classmates from all walks of life, each bringing their unique experiences and perspectives. That diversity can enrich your education in ways you might not expect.
So, with a national average acceptance rate hovering around 5.5%, consider it a good thing if you’re seriously considering applying to a school with a rate higher than that benchmark, as it increases your chances for acceptance.
Should You Only Apply to Schools You Have the Highest Chance of Acceptance?
It’s super tempting to play it safe and toss all your eggs into the “easy to get into” basket. But I’m enthusiastically begging you not to fall into this line of thinking! Instead, you want to craft a balanced school list that includes not just your safety schools but also a few “reach” schools (you know, the ones that make you dream a little bigger). A solid mix of options will keep your spirits high while ensuring you don’t miss out on an incredible opportunity just because you played it too safe.
Plus, medical school isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s where you’re going to grow as a person and a future healthcare professional. So, take into account other factors that fit what YOU are looking for in a medical school. It’s not just about acceptance rates; you’ve got to think about location, tuition, class size, curriculum and all the other vibes that matter to you. Love the city buzz or prefer a calming campus in the mountains? Are you looking to be near family or dive into a completely new culture? These nuances can seriously influence your med school journey, so don’t overlook them!
Final Thoughts on the Easiest Medical Schools to Get Into
The competition for medical school admission can feel overwhelming. After looking at all the requirements and stats you need to get into your choices for medical school, it makes sense that you’d want to look for every advantage you can find.
I hope the list of the “easiest medical schools to get into” I provided helps you feel more confident as you navigate this intimidating process. The reality is that while the competition is intense, there are definitely schools out there that have more approachable admission criteria.
By being strategic about your options and considering schools with more accessible criteria, you’ve taken a proactive step toward your dream of becoming a doctor. However, remember that each school has its own unique vibe and requirements. By learning the factors that influence each school’s acceptance rates, you can take steps to position yourself for success.
Good luck, and make sure you focus on more than just numbers and acceptance rates as you create your application list of medical schools. You want a place where you can grow, thrive, and make amazing memories while you become a future rockstar doc!
Related Posts
Medical School Application Checklist: Are You Ready?
How to Choose a Medical School That’s Just Right for You: 10 Factors to Consider
Leave a Reply