Medical Schools in Massachusetts: About + Tips for Getting Into This State’s Top Schools

If you’re considering medical school in Massachusetts, you’ve got four options that all share much in common. 

• All of them are allopathic. (You’ll have to go to another state if you’re passionate about earning your D.O.)
• Three of them are right in the heart of Boston, which is known for its exciting history, passionate sports fans, and also cultural attractions. 
• Three of them are private and highly competitive to get into. (Cough, Harvard, cough!)

I’ll cover what you need to know about living in the Boston area and how each of these four medical schools differs in what they offer so you can decide which program is a better fit for you. Also, I’ll guide you on how to increase your chances of earning an acceptance (even at Harvard!).

List of Medical Schools in Massachusetts

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Everything You Need To Know About Medical Schools in Massachusetts

Major Change in the U.S. News Medical School Ranking System 

The latest edition of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Medical Schools” rankings includes a major change—they have stopped ranking medical schools numerically and instead use tiers for “Best Medical Schools: Research” and “Best Medical Schools: Primary Care.” 

So, you’ll no longer see “ranked #17,” for example. At the present time, each medical school falls into one of four tiers (with Tier 1 indicating the top-performing schools). Within each tier, U’S. News lists the qualifying group of medical schools in alphabetical order. 

Many critics of the numerical rankings have argued that they create several unintended yet significant issues, including creating an incentive for schools to report their data inaccurately or to shy away from holistic admission policies. 

In protest of the traditional numerical ranking system previously used, several big-name schools, such as Harvard Medical School, refused to provide data to U.S. News for this year’s rankings. In this case, U.S. News lists these schools as “unranked” and does not include them in their tiered rankings. 

What to Know if You Go to Medical Schools in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, you can go from the beautiful Berkshire Mountains to the stunning beaches of Cape Cod and the relaxing vacation islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. And let’s not forget about Boston! With three of Massachusetts’ medical schools in Boston, your time outside of the classroom will likely include a mix of bustling urban life, cultural experiences, and rich historic charm. 

Benefits of Living in Massachusetts

If you’re considering attending medical school, here’s why Massachusetts should definitely be on your radar.

• Boston can be an exciting place to live and study, from its vibrant arts and culture scene to exploring its exciting history.  You can stroll along the Freedom Trail and visit iconic American Revolution sites, such as the Paul Revere House, or spend a day exploring the Museum of Fine Arts and the beautiful Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. 
• If you enjoy watching sports in your downtime, join the enthusiastic fans in Boston cheering on the Red Sox at the storied Fenway Park, the oldest stadium still in use, or catch a Bruins, Celtics, or Patriots game. 
• Massachusetts is jam-packed with a rich history. Just a short hop away from Boston, you’ve got Lexington and Concord, two towns steeped in Revolutionary War history.  Or step back in time to the arrival of the pilgrims at the Plymouth Plantation.
• It’s a foodie haven, especially if you love seafood. Lobster, anyone? And don’t even get me started on Boston cream pie, cranberry bread, and clam chowder in a bread bowl.
• Massachusetts is a picture postcard of natural beauty in all four seasons. However, experiencing a New England autumn is a must—the fall foliage paints a breathtaking backdrop for all your adventures.

Living Costs as a Medical Student in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a reputation for being one of the most expensive places to live in the U.S. The median home value in Massachusetts exceeds $400,000, and rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages around $1,500 per month.

Additionally, the overall cost of goods and services is on the pricier side in Massachusetts. From dining out to filling up your gas tank, be prepared to pay a bit extra for everything thanks to the “Mass Tax” added to everyday expenses. 

If you’re planning to attend medical school in a Massachusetts city, especially in Boston, consider these tips.

• Research affordable housing options in different neighborhoods to find a balance between cost and proximity to campus.
• Take advantage of public transportation options to navigate the city efficiently, as Boston traffic can be challenging.
• Invest in a versatile wardrobe to prepare for the city’s diverse weather patterns, which range from hot summers to cold winters.

Fun Facts About Massachusetts

Check out these interesting facts about Massachusetts (and Boston) that you might not have known.

1. You can thank Massachusetts for inventing chocolate chip cookies. Well, especially to Ruth Graves Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, in the 1930s.
2. The very first Dunkin’ Donuts was located near Boston. This iconic donut shop got its start in Quincy, Massachusetts, just about 11 miles from the city. 
3. Boston is home to the first American lighthouse, specifically the Little Brewster Lighthouse, which was built in 1716. 
4. If you’re near Boston Harbor on December 16th, you can witness a reenactment of the historic Boston Tea Party. In fact, every year, there’s a celebration to commemorate this famous event in American history.

Medical Schools in Massachusetts: MD Schools List 

Whether you’re interested in clinical practice, research, or public health, medical schools in Massachusetts have a lot to offer, including cutting-edge research facilities and affiliations with some of the best hospitals in the country. Plus, you won’t encounter much, if any, residency bias to deter you if you’re out-of-state or from a different country. 

Harvard Medical School

Among the most prestigious medical schools in the world, Harvard Medical School offers one of the top medical educations in the country. Medical students have access to esteemed, accomplished faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and 15 affiliated clinical and research opportunities, such as hospitals including Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

• Location: Boston, MA
• US News Ranking: Unranked
• Average GPA 3.9 
• Average MCAT score: 520.59
• Percentage of out-of-state students: 82.9% 
• Percentage of out-of-the-country students: 11.63% 
• Acceptance Rate: 2.8%
• Tuition: $71,032 (full-time)
• Private
• Allopathic

With a history spanning over two centuries, Harvard Medical School offers a renowned MD Program that allows students to pursue their individual passions and find their calling in the field of medicine. The program includes two curricular tracks: Pathways and Health Sciences & Technology (HST). Pathways focuses on active learning, early clinical experience, and a scholarly project, while HST is a joint program with MIT for students interested in biomedical research or physical sciences.

Despite its high tuition costs, Harvard Medical School maintains that it has one of the most generous MD financial aid programs in the country. The school’s financial aid is so comprehensive that the average graduating debt for its students is approximately half the national average for private medical schools and well below the national average for state schools.

Acceptance Tips

Harvard Medical School may be highly competitive, but you can improve your chance of acceptance with these tips.

1. Highlight your strong academic record, especially in the biological and physical sciences. Your MCAT score is also important, so dedicate time to studying and preparing thoroughly.
2. Harvard Medical School values candidates with an academic background that also includes the humanities and social sciences. To demonstrate your well-roundedness, share your interests and experiences outside of the sciences.
3. The Committee on Admissions at Harvard takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications. To make your application stand out, showcase your involvement in extracurricular activities. Also, highlight research projects, and community service related to healthcare. 
4. Harvard Medical School is committed to enrolling students from diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds, especially those historically underrepresented in the medical field. If this applies to you, emphasize your background and experiences that contribute to this mission.
5. Harvard does not have a rolling admissions policy, so the timing of your application submission won’t impact your chances of receiving an interview invitation.

Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine

Known for its commitment to serving underserved communities and promoting diversity in healthcare, BU School of Medicine’s curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical experience. It also offers students the chance to work in community health centers and research labs.

• Location: Boston, MA
• US News Ranking: Tier 2 Best Medical Schools: Research 
• US News Ranking: Tier 2 Best Medical Schools: Primary Care
• Average GPA: 3.74
• Average MCAT score: 517
• Percentage of out-of-state students: 78.42% 
• Percentage of out of the country students: 25.02%
• Acceptance Rate: 4.2%
• Tuition: $69,806 (full-time)
• Private
• Allopathic

Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) has a rigorous yet supportive academic environment that prepares students for success. The curriculum is structured to provide students with a well-rounded education, including exposure to different Boston neighborhoods, patient populations, and also healthcare disparities. 

After completing the two-year preclinical curriculum, students dedicate time to preparing for the USMLE Step 1 examination before transitioning to the two-year clinical curriculum. BUSM also offers students the opportunity to personalize their learning experience through Extracurricular Enrichment Activities, allowing them to explore their interests beyond the core curriculum.

The school’s commitment to diversity is evident in its alumni, who include groundbreaking figures such as the first black female physician and the first Native American physician in the US. Boston University is proud to be the first coeducational medical school in the nation, particularly reflecting its progressive values.

Acceptance Tips

Follow these tips to improve your chances of acceptance to Boston University Medical School.

1. Boston University School of Medicine looks for students who excel academically, are committed to serving others, especially underserved patients, and bring diversity to the medical profession. In your application, show how you value diversity and are committed to providing care for all.
2. The school uses a holistic review process, meaning there are no cut-offs for your GPA or MCAT score, so focus on showcasing who you are as a person and how you would contribute to the school.
3. Demonstrate your academic talent and passion for learning in your application. Also, highlight any experiences that showcase your commitment to serving marginalized populations.

University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine

From Boston, take an hour’s drive west to Worcester (pronounced “wuh-ster”) to the only public medical school in Massachusetts. UMass Medical School is recognized for its strong focus on primary care and community-based medicine.

• Location: Worcester, MA
• US News Ranking: Tier 2 Best Medical Schools: Research 
• US News Ranking: Tier 1 Best Medical Schools: Primary Care
• Average GPA: 3.81
• Average MCAT score: 514
• Percentage of in-state: 64%
• Acceptance Rate: 8.8%
• Tuition: $39,380 (in-state) and $67,718 (out-of-state)
• Gender Distribution: 63% Female, 36.1% Male, and 0.8% Other
• Public 
• Allopathic

The University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine offers an innovative curriculum titled “Vista.” Basically, the Vista model focuses on incorporating new technologies into healthcare practices. Also, they are exposing students to early patient care experiences in the initial weeks of their studies.

UMass Chan Medical School’s location outside Boston in Worcester dramatically reduces the cost of living. Additionally, candidates can apply to one of the two regional campuses—UMass Chan-Baystate in Springfield, Massachusetts, or UMass Chan-Lahey in Burlington, Massachusetts.

The T.H. Chan School of Medicine at UMass Chan Medical School offers a supportive environment for students pursuing their MD. The Center for Academic Achievement provides enrichment, study groups, tutoring, and test-taking assistance, and the Student Counseling Center provides access to a campus fitness center, community garden, and on-campus food pantry.

Acceptance Tips

The higher acceptance rate at UMass Medical School means a better chance of acceptance compared to the other three schools listed. However, keep these tips in mind if you’re interested in improving your chances of acceptance.

1. UMass encourages all applicants to apply early. Submitting your primary app ASAP will give your candidacy the best chance to advance into the interview process, which spans from September through March.
2. Highlight any relevant clinical experience or a passion that aligns with the unique tracks offered at UMass Chan.
3. Showcase a strong commitment to incorporating new technologies into healthcare practices in your application.
4. Work on developing strong communication and leadership skills, which are valued at UMass Chan. 
5. In-state applicants have an advantage as the class of 2027 only consists of 36% of out-of-state students.

Tufts University School of Medicine

With an emphasis on public health and global health initiatives, Tufts’ students have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary collaborations and gain valuable experience in clinical settings both locally and internationally.

• Location: Boston, MA
• US News Ranking: Tier 2 Best Medical Schools: Research 
• US News Ranking: Tier 2 Best Medical Schools: Primary Care
• Average GPA: 3.76
• Average MCAT score: 514
• Percentage of in-state students: 26.2%
• Acceptance Rate: 4.3%
• Tuition: $69,036
• Gender Distribution: 57.5% Female, 41.8% Male, 0.7% Other
• Private
• Allopathic

Founded in 1893, Tufts University School of Medicine offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes a research-rich environment and various community engagement initiatives. The school revamped its curriculum in 2019 to streamline the preclinical years, providing students with earlier exposure to clinical experiences. 

In addition, students at Tufts integrate four core “threads” of medicine into their education over the four years, focusing on healthcare systems, population health, the patient experience, and personal and professional development. Tufts also offers longitudinal programs such as the Community Service Learning (CSL) initiative and the Student-As-Teacher (SAT) program, which enhance students’ learning experiences through community service and teaching opportunities.

Acceptance Tips

Here are some tips for success if you’re applying to Tufts University School of Medicine.

1. Ensure strong performance in the required premedical courses, as they are a key factor in the selection process.
2. Pay attention to your entire academic record, not just premedical courses, as it is also considered in the application review process.
3. Participate in extracurricular experiences that demonstrate your commitment to a medical career and showcase your potential.
4. Obtain letters of recommendation that speak to your promise and suitability for a medical career.
5. Consider applying if you’re out of state, as most of the accepted students hail from states other than Massachusetts. 

The Bottom Line on Medical Schools in Massachusetts

If you’re considering attending a medical school in Massachusetts, you’ll have four allopathic options. Keep in mind that the three private institutions typically have more competitive admissions requirements compared to the one public University of Massachusetts Medical School.

Living in Massachusetts, especially in cities like Boston, can offer a vibrant and exciting lifestyle with access to rich history, natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a variety of sporting events. However, the cost of living and tuition prices in Massachusetts can be high. Additionally, getting around Boston by car can be challenging due to traffic congestion, and the winters can be especially harsh and long-lasting with heavy snowfall.

Despite the expenses and unpredictable weather, the quality of education and training at the esteemed medical schools in Massachusetts shared above often make the investment worth it. Whether you opt for the prestige of a private institution or the affordability of a public one, pursuing your medical education in Massachusetts can offer a unique and enriching experience that prepares you for a successful career in the field of medicine.

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