Does this sound familiar? You’re researching medical schools so you can decide where to apply, and, bam, you’re hit with a ton of statistics, including GPA, MCAT scores, and medical school acceptance rates. Now, you’re likely thinking, “Where do I start? What’s going to make the biggest difference in helping me decide where I’m going to send my applications?”
It can be maddening to figure out which facts and figures you should focus on to guide your choices. Personally, I would also factor in medical school acceptance rates. These statistics can help you sort the medical schools on your list into safety, target, or reach schools. Plus, being aware of the acceptance rates up front gives you the chance to tailor how you present your application to the medical school of your choice.
So, how exactly can you use medical school rates to your advantage? I’ll cover pro tips on what to consider as you decide where to send your applications.
This post is all about medical school acceptance rates.
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Medical School Acceptance Rates – Everything You Need To Know
Overall Statistics for Medical School Acceptance Rates
Let’s start by looking at the big picture when examining medical school acceptance rates.
On average, medical schools tend to accept around 5.5% of applicants. Still, acceptance rates can vary greatly among different medical schools. Highly selective schools, such as Boston University School of Medicine, will have well below that average, with an acceptance rate as low as 1.4%. While others, such as the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University in Augusta, GA, boast a more favorable rate of 12.1%.
If you think these percentages seem anxiety-inducingly low, I totally get it. However, remember that most aspiring medical students tend to apply to more than one medical school. As a result, when you zoom out and look at the whole applicant pool, the situation may not seem as gloomy as it appears at first glance.
As of now, there are 192 medical schools in the United States—155 MD-granting schools and 37 DO-granting schools. During the 2023-2024 application cycle, 52,577 applicants vied for spots in these medical schools. Out of this large pool of applicants, 22,981 students actually matriculated, which amounts to a matriculation rate of 43.7%. So, while it’s still less than half, this percentage is certainly more encouraging.
Medical School Acceptance Rates for Allopathic Schools (MD)MD Schools
| Medical school | State | Mean MCAT score | Mean GPA | Overall acceptance rate | In-state acceptance rate | Out-of-state acceptance rate |
| Albany Medical College | NY | 510 | 3.80 | 1.08% | 28% | 18% |
| Albert Einstein College of Medicine | NY | 516 | 3.88 | 2.02% | 26% | 15% |
| Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine at TCU | TX | 511 | 3.82 | 0.79% | 27% | 19% |
| Baylor College of Medicine | TX | 519 | 3.94 | 4.06% | 20% | 22% |
| Boston University Aram V. Chobanian & Edward Avedisian School of Medicine | MA | 518 | 3.88 | 1.34% | 33% | 12% |
| Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University | NC | 507 | 3.73 | 8.22% | 26% | 0% |
| California Northstate University College of Medicine | CA | 514 | 3.86 | 3.15% | 24% | 18% |
| California University of Science and Medicine-School of Medicine | CA | 515 | 3.80 | 2.68% | 23% | 43% |
| Carle Illinois College of Medicine | IL | 515 | 3.83 | 2.25% | 2% | 2% |
| Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine | OH | 519 | 3.90 | 2.43% | 32% | 19% |
| Central Michigan University College of Medicine | MI | 507 | 3.78 | 1.24% | 24% | 14% |
| Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University | FL | 516 | 3.90 | 1.65% | 21% | 29% |
| Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science College of Medicine | CA | 501 | 3.41 | 6.26% | 16% | 12% |
| Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science | IL | 513 | 3.80 | 2.01% | 38% | 23% |
| Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons | NY | 522 | 3.95 | 1.92% | 16% | 18% |
| Cooper Medical School of Rowan University | NJ | 514 | 3.88 | 2.46% | 41% | 18% |
| Creighton University School of Medicine | NE | 515 | 3.89 | 4.05% | 31% | 28% |
| CUNY School of Medicine | NY | NA | NA | 8.36% | 35% | 0% |
| Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine | NS | NA | NA | 8.30% | 40% | 12% |
| Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell | NY | 518 | 3.90 | 1.97% | 18% | 8% |
| Drexel University College of Medicine | PA | 512 | 3.80 | 1.92% | 28% | 18% |
| Duke University School of Medicine | NC | 520 | 3.92 | 1.35% | 23% | 18% |
| East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine | TN | 509 | 3.85 | 1.94% | 25% | 14% |
| Eastern Virginia Medical School | VA | 513 | 3.80 | 2.11% | 21% | 17% |
| Emory University School of Medicine | GA | 517 | 3.84 | 1.06% | 36% | 17% |
| Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine | FL | 511 | 3.90 | 1.94% | 29% | 18% |
| Florida State University College of Medicine | FL | 509 | 3.86 | 1.79% | 49% | 20% |
| Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University | CT | 513 | 3.78 | 1.26% | 30% | 18% |
| Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama | AL | 508 | 3.89 | 4.92% | 39% | 60% |
| Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth | NH | 516 | 3.82 | 1.02% | 23% | 14% |
| Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine | PA | 512 | 3.86 | 2.19% | 20% | 9% |
| George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences | DC | 512 | 3.81 | 1.08% | 11% | 21% |
| Georgetown University School of Medicine | DC | 515 | 3.89 | 1.21% | 63% | 18% |
| Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine | NJ | 515 | 3.82 | 2.62% | 32% | 20% |
| Harvard Medical School | MA | 521 | 3.96 | 1.95% | 21% | 20% |
| Howard University College of Medicine | DC | 506 | 3.67 | 1.43% | 50% | 32% |
| Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai | NY | 519 | 3.92 | 1.39% | 22% | 15% |
| Indiana University School of Medicine | IN | 512 | 3.90 | 5.96% | 59% | 16% |
| Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo | NY | 511 | 3.79 | 3.00% | 36% | 15% |
| Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine | MD | 521 | 3.96 | 1.98% | 30% | 20% |
| Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine | CA | 517 | 3.85 | 0.65% | 8% | 6% |
| Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California | CA | 517 | 3.86 | 2.15% | 51% | 32% |
| Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV | NV | 510 | 3.77 | 4.23% | 27% | 14% |
| Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University | PA | 512 | 3.79 | 1.65% | 27% | 16% |
| Loma Linda University School of Medicine | CA | 511 | 3.92 | 3.17% | 48% | 48% |
| Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans | LA | 510 | 3.86 | 4.99% | 39% | 20% |
| Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Shreveport | LA | 507 | 3.85 | 3.69% | 49% | 39% |
| Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine | IL | 512 | 3.77 | 1.39% | 45% | 28% |
| Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine | WV | 506 | 3.83 | 3.91% | 55% | 35% |
| Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba | MB | NA | NA | 10.97% | 46% | 5% |
| Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine | MN | 521 | 3.95 | 1.93% | 7% | 16% |
| McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences | QC | NA | NA | 8.93% | 36% | 26% |
| McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston | TX | 513 | 3.92 | 4.25% | 23% | 11% |
| McMaster University Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine | ON | NA | NA | 4.07% | 40% | 28% |
| Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University | GA | 513 | 3.84 | 7.92% | 48% | 3% |
| Medical College of Wisconsin | WI | 510 | 3.80 | 2.73% | 41% | 28% |
| Medical University of South Carolina College of Medicine | SC | 512 | 3.92 | 4.67% | 49% | 22% |
| Meharry Medical College | TN | 504 | 3.58 | 1.50% | 64% | 46% |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty of Medicine | NL | NA | NA | 9.35% | 76% | 0% |
| Mercer University School of Medicine | GA | 505 | 3.77 | 12.58% | 40% | 0.00% |
| Michigan State University College of Human Medicine | MI | 509 | 3.80 | 2.56% | 90% | 148% |
| Morehouse School of Medicine | GA | 507 | 3.72 | 1.57% | 47% | 12% |
| New York Medical College | NY | 516 | 3.80 | 1.97% | 27% | 17% |
| Northeast Ohio Medical University | OH | 510 | 3.80 | 3.73% | 22% | 15% |
| Northwestern University The Feinberg School of Medicine | IL | 521 | 3.93 | 1.85% | 41% | 17% |
| Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine | FL | 513 | 3.89 | 0.95% | 18% | 13% |
| NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine | NY | 515 | 3.84 | 0.57% | 6% | 6% |
| NYU Grossman School of Medicine | NY | 523 | 3.98 | 1.24% | 7% | 14% |
| Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine | MI | 511 | 3.91 | 1.66% | 35% | 19% |
| Ohio State University College of Medicine | OH | 516 | 3.90 | 2.74% | 43% | 24% |
| Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine | OR | 511 | 3.74 | 2.38% | 45% | 14% |
| Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine | PA | 511 | 3.84 | 1.31% | 30% | 17% |
| Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania | PA | 522 | 3.96 | 2.56% | 28% | 17% |
| Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine | PR | 499 | 3.70 | 9.70% | 29% | 115% |
| Queen’s University Faculty of Health Sciences | ON | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University | NY | 517 | 3.89 | 2.41% | 19% | 10% |
| Robert Larner, M.D., College of Medicine at the University of Vermont | VT | 513 | 3.75 | 1.42% | 52% | 16% |
| Rush Medical College of Rush University Medical Center | IL | 511 | 3.70 | 1.18% | 33% | 30% |
| Rutgers New Jersey Medical School | NJ | 516 | 3.85 | 2.95% | 28% | 17% |
| Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School | NJ | 515 | 3.83 | 2.84% | 53% | 13% |
| Saint Louis University School of Medicine | MO | 513 | 3.93 | 2.91% | 47% | 18% |
| San Juan Bautista School of Medicine | PR | 499 | 3.65 | 5.26% | 25% | 44% |
| Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University | PA | 514 | 3.86 | 2.36% | 59% | 40% |
| Southern Illinois University School of Medicine | IL | 507 | 3.86 | 7.11% | 35% | 0% |
| Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah | UT | 511 | 3.82 | 4.09% | 44% | 21% |
| Stanford University School of Medicine | CA | 519 | 3.92 | 0.92% | 19% | 16% |
| State University of New York Upstate Medical University Alan and Marlene Norton College of Medicine | NY | 513 | 3.81 | 3.06% | 30% | 21% |
| SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University College of Medicine | NY | 513 | 3.79 | 2.97% | 23% | 10% |
| Texas A&M University School of Medicine | TX | 513 | 3.89 | 3.51% | 39% | 24% |
| Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine | TX | 514 | 3.93 | 2.72% | 21% | 13% |
| Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine | TX | 512 | 3.93 | 3.64% | 20% | 17% |
| The University of Texas at Tyler School of Medicine | TX | 505 | 3.84 | 1.06% | 14% | 100% |
| The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine | TX | 518 | 3.93 | 4.31% | 23% | 12% |
| The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences | OH | 510 | 3.82 | 3.14% | 52% | 39% |
| The University of Western Ontario – Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry | ON | NA | NA | 7.14% | 42% | 0% |
| The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University | RI | 517 | 3.87 | 1.61% | 100% | 34% |
| Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine at Belmont University | TN | NA | NA | #VALUE! | NA | NA |
| Tufts University School of Medicine | MA | 515 | 3.85 | 1.44% | 37% | 23% |
| Tulane University School of Medicine | LA | 512 | 3.77 | 1.11% | 50% | 27% |
| Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine | MD | 512 | 3.84 | 6.99% | 34% | 28% |
| Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine | PR | 499 | 3.77 | 9.33% | 36% | 65% |
| Universite de Montreal Faculty of Medicine | QC | NA | NA | 10.06% | 38% | 24% |
| Universite de Sherbrooke Faculty of Medicine | QC | NA | NA | 7.45% | 29% | 25% |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine | AL | 511 | 3.90 | 4.18% | 57% | 14% |
| University of Arizona College of Medicine | AZ | 511 | 3.84 | 1.68% | 37% | 10% |
| University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix | AZ | 518 | 3.87 | 2.04% | 42% | 20% |
| University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine | AR | 507 | 3.85 | 7.18% | 64% | 5% |
| University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine | BC | NA | NA | 11.25% | 48% | 0% |
| University of California, Davis, School of Medicine | CA | 512 | 3.69 | 1.62% | 24% | 19% |
| University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine | CA | 516 | 3.89 | 1.62% | 23% | 16% |
| University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine | CA | 514 | 3.85 | 1.23% | 21% | 23% |
| University of California, Riverside School of Medicine | CA | 510 | 3.75 | 1.37% | 29% | 25% |
| University of California, San Diego School of Medicine | CA | 516 | 3.86 | 1.61% | 18% | 11% |
| University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine | CA | 517 | 3.89 | 1.93% | 36% | 20% |
| University of Central Florida College of Medicine | FL | 515 | 3.91 | 2.42% | 23% | 25% |
| University of Chicago Division of the Biological Sciences The Pritzker School of Medicine | IL | 521 | 3.94 | 1.31% | 23% | 13% |
| University of Cincinnati College of Medicine | OH | 517 | 3.91 | 2.86% | 37% | 20% |
| University of Colorado School of Medicine | CO | 516 | 3.89 | 1.78% | 65% | 18% |
| University of Connecticut School of Medicine | CT | 513 | 3.85 | 2.56% | 41% | 22% |
| University of Florida College of Medicine | FL | 516 | 3.92 | 2.54% | 40% | 29% |
| University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine | HI | 513 | 3.88 | 3.19% | 41% | 11% |
| University of Houston Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine | TX | 505 | 3.75 | 1.23% | 19% | 7% |
| University of Illinois College of Medicine | IL | 512 | 3.77 | 3.10% | 55% | 32% |
| University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine | IA | 515 | 3.89 | 4.48% | 42% | 11% |
| University of Kansas School of Medicine | KS | 510 | 3.87 | 6.56% | 50% | 25% |
| University of Kentucky College of Medicine | KY | 506 | 3.87 | 4.82% | 45% | 21% |
| University of Louisville School of Medicine | KY | 508 | 3.82 | 2.92% | 44% | 25% |
| University of Maryland School of Medicine | MD | 514 | 3.86 | 2.59% | 46% | 12% |
| University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine | MA | 516 | 3.89 | 3.78% | 27% | 12% |
| University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine | FL | 515 | 3.85 | 1.98% | 31% | 54% |
| University of Michigan Medical School | MI | 518 | 3.90 | 1.83% | 71% | 24% |
| University of Minnesota Medical School | MN | 511 | 3.84 | 4.03% | 38% | 17% |
| University of Mississippi School of Medicine | MS | 506 | 3.87 | 44.47% | 81% | 0% |
| University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine | MO | 509 | 3.85 | 4.74% | 37% | 19% |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine | MO | 510 | 3.89 | 7.18% | 91% | 136% |
| University of Nebraska College of Medicine | NE | 512 | 3.94 | 6.37% | 46% | 15% |
| University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine | NV | 509 | 3.76 | 4.15% | 21% | 15% |
| University of New Mexico School of Medicine | NM | 506 | 3.82 | 5.32% | 71% | 15% |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine | NC | 516 | 3.82 | 3.50% | 36% | 18% |
| University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences | ND | 509 | 3.86 | 4.48% | 60% | 28% |
| University of Oklahoma College of Medicine | OK | 510 | 3.94 | 7.92% | 82% | 18% |
| University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine | ON | NA | NA | 3.64% | 34% | 22% |
| University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine | PA | 516 | 3.87 | 1.67% | 36% | 11% |
| University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine | PR | 504 | 3.90 | 13.90% | 80% | 8% |
| University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry | NY | 518 | 3.91 | 1.66% | 19% | 16% |
| University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine | SK | NA | NA | 9.92% | 42% | 0% |
| University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia | SC | 510 | 3.91 | 3.50% | 29% | 16% |
| University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville | SC | 510 | 3.90 | 2.51% | 32% | 34% |
| University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine | SD | 509 | 3.85 | 6.36% | 45% | 24% |
| University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine | TN | 512 | 3.91 | 6.65% | 47% | 25% |
| University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School | TX | 515 | 3.92 | 0.95% | 13% | 42% |
| University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine | TX | 513 | 3.87 | 4.47% | 25% | 15% |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine | TX | 507 | 3.79 | 1.18% | 11% | 5% |
| University of Texas Southwestern Medical School | TX | 517 | 3.93 | 4.18% | 30% | 28% |
| University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine | ON | NA | NA | 6.47% | 43% | 0% |
| University of Virginia School of Medicine | VA | 520 | 3.94 | 2.68% | 47% | 18% |
| University of Washington School of Medicine | WA | 512 | 3.81 | 3.83% | 34% | 47% |
| University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health | WI | 512 | 3.80 | 2.65% | 40% | 20% |
| USF Health Morsani College of Medicine | FL | 519 | 3.93 | 3.30% | 19% | 19% |
| Vanderbilt University School of Medicine | TN | 521 | 3.95 | 1.44% | 24% | 13% |
| Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine | VA | 513 | 3.88 | 2.53% | 30% | 19% |
| Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine | VA | 513 | 3.70 | 0.81% | 16% | 18% |
| Wake Forest University School of Medicine | NC | 512 | 3.85 | 1.20% | 40% | 25% |
| Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine | WA | 509 | 3.77 | 4.96% | 25% | 35% |
| Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine | MO | 521 | 3.95 | 1.95% | 16% | 11% |
| Wayne State University School of Medicine | MI | 513 | 3.86 | 3.65% | 27% | 15% |
| Weill Cornell Medicine | NY | 519 | 3.93 | 1.43% | 23% | 11% |
| West Virginia University School of Medicine | WV | 510 | 3.83 | 2.09% | 68% | 7% |
| Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine | MI | 513 | 3.82 | 2.05% | 21% | 18% |
| Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine | OH | 509 | 3.82 | 2.01% | 37% | 18% |
| Yale School of Medicine | CT | 522 | 3.95 | 1.44% | 35% | 14% |
Medical School Acceptance Rates for Osteopathic Schools (DO)
| Medical school | State | Mean MCAT score | Mean GPA | Overall acceptance rate |
| A.T. Still University of Health Sciences – Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine – ATSU-KCOM | MO | 503.8 | 3.7 | 1.2% |
| A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona | AZ | 504.9 | 3.58 | 9% |
| Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine | AL | 504 | 3.38 | 4.8% |
| Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine | AZ | 505 | 3.53 | 3.7% |
| Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine | AR | 501 | 3.6 | 5.7% |
| Baptist Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine | TN | 507 | 3.66 | N/A |
| Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine | NM | 501.4 | 3.48 | 5.5% |
| California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine | CA | 505 | 3.4 | 5.1% |
| Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine | NC | 507 | 3.7 | 4% |
| Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University | IL | 510 | 3.59 | 2.64% |
| Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine | 499 | 3.5 | 14% | |
| Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine | IA | 507 | 3.66 | 5.80% |
| Duquesne University College of Osteopathic Medicine | PA | 500 | 3.2 | N/A |
| Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine | AL, VA, SC, LA | 506 | 3.6 | 6% |
| Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine | ID | 505 | 3.5 | 5.32% |
| Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine | MO | 506 | 3.65 | 6.90% |
| Kansas Health Center College of Ostheopathic Medicine | KA | 511 | 3.84 | 5.70% |
| Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine | KY | 506 | 3.9 | 24% |
| Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine | PA | 504 | 3.2 | 6% |
| Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine | VA | 502 | 3.5 | 5% |
| Marian University Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine | IN | 504 | 3.71 | 3.20% |
| Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine | MI | 507 | 3.7 | 3.82% |
| New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine | NY | 505 | 3.4 | 6% |
| Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine | NT | 500 | 3 | 11.02% |
| Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine | FL | 506 | 3.5 | 5% |
| Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine | OH | 504 | 3.68 | 5% |
| Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine | OK | 502 | 3.73 | 25% |
| Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine | FL | 500 | 3.2 | N/A |
| PCOM Georgia | GA | N/A | N/A | 4.12% |
| PCOM South Georgia | GA | N/A | N/A | 3.90% |
| Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine | WA | 509 | 3.68 | 3.80% |
| Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine | PA | 505 | 3.5 | 12% |
| Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine | CO | 505 | 3.6 | 6.22% |
| Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine | NJ | 506 | 3.67 | 4.57% |
| Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine | TX | 507 | 3.7 | 2.52% |
| Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine | NY | 507 | 3.4 | 2.81% |
| Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine | CA | 509 | 3.56 | 5% |
| University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine | ME | 502 | 3.57 | 4.55% |
| University of North Texas Health Science Center-Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine | TX | 507.8 | 3.83 | 6% |
| University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine | TX | 502.7 | 3.58 | 3.83% |
| West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine | WV | 501.8 | 3.62 | 9% |
| Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific | CA | 508.8 | 3.7 | 4.33% |
| Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest | OR | 508.8 | 3.7 | 3.09% |
| William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine | MS | 499.7 | 3.51 | 3.18% |
How to Use Acceptance Rates to Choose Medical Schools
Acceptance rates, along with GPA requirements and median MCAT scores, matter when you’re looking at your chances of getting into a particular medical school. Your personal GPA and MCAT scores, in comparison to your prospective medical school’s cutoff metric, often become used as screening tools to decide who gets automatically rejected and who receives secondary applications and, ultimately, the chance for an acceptance letter.
GPA Requirements
Your GPA is actually categorized into three parts: your overall GPA, your Science GPA (which in general includes biology, chemistry, physics, and math), and your Non-Science GPA (less often mentioned though). These numbers matter when you’re applying to medical school because admission committees tend to use them as one of their top criteria.
To give you a better idea of what most medical schools want to see, here are the average GPAs for medical school matriculants in the U.S. for the 2023-2024 academic year.:
- Overall GPA: 3.77
- Science GPA: 3.71
- Non-Science GPA: 3.85
Medical schools often have minimum GPA requirements. While not all of them publicize where they draw the line, in general, a GPA of 3.5 or higher is considered competitive. That does not mean though that you don’t have any chances below that. Remember that there are many more factors that can help you to become a competitive applicant. I personally suggest to reach at least a GPA of 3.0 before applying to medical school.
MCAT Scores
The average MCAT score for students accepted to MD-granting medical schools in the US in 2023-2024 was 511.7. So, to be competitive for medical school admission in the US, set your sights on earning a target score of around 511. Typically, MCAT scores of 509 or below are considered low for allopathic medical school admissions. However, there are plenty of exceptions to this rule.
For context, the highest possible MCAT score is 528, with a perfect score of 132 on each of the four sections. So, an MCAT score of 518 or above would be seen as exceptional and would certainly open doors. But I’ve also had students in my Road to Acceptance course with MCAT scores around 500 still getting accepted to multiple medical schools by improving all other factors in their control.
Applying to Medical School Based on Your Stats
To improve your chances of getting accepted, there are important factors to consider. Take note how your GPA and MCAT scores compare to the averages of accepted students at each program. Schools with lower acceptance rates are more competitive. So to successfully apply, you’ll need to meet or exceed the average MCAT score and GPA.
Be realistic about your academic standings. Then, strategically apply to a mix of higher and lower competitive schools that match your profile. This balanced approach will give you the best chance of securing multiple interviews. This will also increase the number of acceptances you’ll receive.
Overall vs. In-State vs. Out-of-State Acceptance Rates
You’ll likely first focus on a prospective medical school’s overall acceptance rate. This refers to the percentage of all applicants, regardless of state residency, who get accepted into a medical school. However, this statistic can be further divided into in-state and out-of-state acceptance rates.
In-state acceptance rate focuses on the percentage of applicants from that specific state who are accepted. On the other hand, the out-of-state acceptance rate indicates the number of successful applicants from other states. As you select your medical school list, this distinction can make a huge difference in your application strategy.
How Does In-State vs. Out-of-State Impact Where You’ll Apply?
Why should you care about these two stats? For starters, many public and some private medical schools tend to show a strong preference for in-state applicants called residency bias. This preference is often reflected in significantly higher in-state acceptance rates compared to out-of-state acceptance rates. If you see a drastic gap—like four times or more—between in-state and out-of-state acceptance rates, it’s a clear sign that in-state applicants have a major advantage at that school.
How to Strategically Use State Acceptance Rates
If you’re lucky enough to reside in a state where the local medical school favors in-state applicants, you should definitely apply there. This residency bias will give you a better chance statistically. Plus, you might also benefit from lower tuition costs and the support of being closer to home. Conversely, if you’re not a resident, it may not be worth your time, effort, and fees to apply to any schools with high in-state acceptance rates. This is especially the case if you are a less competitive applicant.
Now, sometimes you don’t have the option to make the most of in-state acceptance rates. Perhaps you live in a state with limited or highly competitive medical school options that favor out-of-state applicants. If you’re in this category, you’ll need to cast a wider net. You can do this by applying to a lot more schools outside your state to maximize your chances of acceptance. As you do, avoid being sidelined by residency bias. Start with searching for schools with minimal differences in acceptance rates between in-state and out-of-state applicants. These programs offer you a better chance of being competitive regardless of your residency status.
Do Acceptance Rates Directly Relate to a Medical School’s Quality?
Let’s discuss a common misconception about choosing a medical school. There’s a belief that schools with lower acceptance rates are automatically better than those with higher overall acceptance rates. It’s time to debunk this myth – acceptance rates do not reflect whether one school is better than another.
Medical Schools with Highest Acceptance Rates
Schools with higher acceptance rates may offer you a better chance of getting in. This is always a plus when you’re trying to secure a spot in medical school. However, high acceptance rates do not equate to a lower quality of education or opportunities at a medical school.
There are several reasons why some medical schools have higher acceptance rates than others. For example, they could have a larger class size, a focus on accepting a more diverse range of students. It could also be simply a less competitive applicant pool.
Regardless of the reason, a higher acceptance rate doesn’t necessarily mean that a school is less prestigious or offers a lower quality education. Remember that all MD and DO schools in the US are accredited. They are all being held to high standards when it comes to educating future physicians. No matter which medical school you attend, you can rest assured that you’ll receive a high-quality education.
Here are the 10 schools with the highest acceptance rates:
- University of Mississippi School of Medicine (44.47%)
- University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine (13.89%)
- Mercer University School of Medicine (12.58%)
- University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine (11.25%)
- Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba (10.97%)
- Universite de Montreal Faculty of Medicine (10.06%)
- University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine (9.92%)
- Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine (9.70%)
- Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty of Medicine (9.35%)
- Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine (9.33%)
Does a Lower Acceptance Rate Mean a School is Better?
Many prestigious medical schools tend to have very low acceptance rates. Which leads people to assume that these schools offer a higher quality education. However, medical schools with lower acceptance rates aren’t necessarily superior, either.
In reality, the reason behind these low acceptance rates is often the high number of applicants competing for a limited number of spots in the program. While these schools may be incredibly selective, requiring top grades and test scores from applicants, it’s essential to remember that getting into a school with a low acceptance rate doesn’t always guarantee a superior educational experience.
Acceptance rates can provide some insight into a school’s competitiveness, but they shouldn’t be the sole factor determining your decision. Research and consider other aspects of the institution, such as faculty, curriculum, facilities, and overall fit for your personal goals.
Here are the 10 schools with the lowest acceptance rates:
- NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine (0.57%)
- Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine (0.65%)
- Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine at TCU (0.79%)
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine (0.81%)
- Stanford University School of Medicine (0.92%)
- University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (0.95%)
- Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine (0.95%)
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth (1.02%)
- Emory University School of Medicine (1.06%)
- The University of Texas at Tyler School of Medicine (1.06%)
What if you Have Lower Stats?
Medical school acceptance rates can be a helpful indicator of a program’s competitiveness. However, please, please, please don’t let them deter you from applying to a couple of your dream schools! Remember that many medical schools prioritize a holistic process for accepting students.
For example, the GPA range for accepted students can vary quite a bit from one medical school to another. While it’s a good idea to aim for a minimum GPA between 3.5 and 3.6 across all subjects, I’ve seen lots of students with lower GPAs get accepted. This includes myself! With a 3.3 GPA (see below) I was still able to earn 10 acceptances and am now a 4th year medical student.
So even if you have a lower GPA, you can still take the following actions that will help you get accepted.
- Show an upward trend in your grades
- Consider a post-bacc or master’s program
- Highlight other areas of your application, including earning a high MCAT score. Emphasize acquiring impressive clinical or volunteer hours, or demonstrating leadership and a passion for medicine.
- Make your application stand out by applying early, writing stellar essays, crushing your interviews and more. I share the key strategies I used to gain 10 acceptances despite a 3.3 GPA in my Free Premed Workshop:
The same logic applies if your MCAT score is less than stellar, such as closer to the 500 mark. Fortunately, you haven’t completely lost hope. You can retake the MCAT. Now that you know what you’re in for, you can study with more intention and potentially score higher.
Stats Aren’t Everything! (Improving Other Factors)
While your GPA and MCAT may get your foot in the door, many medical schools have shifted their admission process. They went away from relying solely on these statistics and more on looking at each applicant holistically.
So, what does it mean for you? If you can get your application in front of an admission committee, you still have chance to successfully earn interview. Eventually you’ll also earn an acceptance if you strengthen the following other areas of your application.
- Round up strong letters of recommendation. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your qualifications, work ethic, and passion for medicine. Personal anecdotes and specific examples of your achievements and character can really make your application shine.
- Excel in your extracurricular activities. Admissions committees love seeing well-rounded candidates who are involved in their communities and have diverse interests. Get involved in volunteer work and research projects. Focus on leadership roles, or any other activities that showcase your commitment to serving others. You should be able to show your ability to juggle responsibilities.
- Highlight your hands-on experience in a medical setting, whether through shadowing, volunteering, working or internships, on your application. Clinical experience demonstrates your understanding of the field and your dedication to pursuing a career in medicine.
- Nail your personal statement. Use this opportunity to tell your story and explain why you’re passionate about becoming a doctor. Also, showcase your unique qualities, experiences, and motivations that make you a strong candidate, regardless of your stats.
- Sharpen your interview skills. If you get an interview, make sure you prepare to shine. Practice your answers to common interview questions. Do your research on the school, and show your genuine enthusiasm for the profession.
Real-Life Examples
You aren’t convinced yet that you can still get accepted with lower stats? The first time I applied, I received 100% rejections. I definitely had my doubts if I would ever be able to make it with a lower GPA. Fortunately, I reached a stronger MCAT score and balanced my 3.3 GPA with so many other factors in my control! So that the second time I applied, I earned an incredible 10 acceptances.
Trust me. I am not the only case and have seen so many of my Road to Acceptance students use the same strategies I did. They also made their dream of medical school a reality, despite lower stats. Find some examples below!
Should You Still Apply to Schools Below Median Stats?
Out of the approximately 20 schools you plan to apply to, there’s an important factor to consider. Make sure that the majority of them have median stats within a realistic range of your GPA and MCAT scores. Are you considering to apply to medical schools where your GPA and MCAT scores fall below the median? Then it’s still reasonable to put 3 to 4 of these “reach” schools on your list – because you never know!
Remember, medical school acceptance rates can be competitive, but they’re not the only factor that determines your success. Focusing on these other aspects of your application can improve your chances of acceptance, even if your GPA and MCAT scores aren’t perfect.
Final Thoughts on Medical School Acceptance Rates
Understanding medical school acceptance rates can help you gauge your chances of acceptance and make informed decisions about where to apply. By researching and analyzing these rates, you can tailor your application strategy to match the competitiveness of different schools, ultimately increasing your chances of acceptance.
Remember, while acceptance rates are important, they are not the only factor in the admissions process. Focus on building a strong application, showcasing your strengths, and demonstrating your passion for medicine to stand out among other applicants. Good luck on your medical school journey!
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