In just a few days, many of you will want to submit your medical school application. You’ve probably heard that you need to submit on the first day possible – May 28, 2020 – if you want your best shot. But just how true is that?
Medical school admissions myth vs. reality
It is true that an early submission of your medical school application has an advantage – with fewer applications ahead of it, and an open slate of interview spots, your application has a better chance to shine.
But an inferior application cancels out that advantage, no matter how early you apply. If you’re rushing to meet an arbitrary deadline, the quality of your personal statement and extracurricular activities may suffer; or you may incorrectly enter your coursework, resulting in a verification delay.
Also keep in mind that this year’s applications will not be forwarded to medical schools until July 10th. On that date, all verified applications will be forwarded, whether they were submitted on the first day or a few days later. Last year, anything submitted by June 7th made the first release (which was on June 28th last year), meaning applicants who spent an extra week finessing their application made it to the schools on the same day as those who submitted on May 30th.
A better strategy for medical school acceptance in 2020
Submit as early as possible, when your application is as strong as it can possibly be.
This strategy may mean later in June, or even July. And it’s not impossible to be accepted with an even later application, especially this year as schools adapt to delayed MCAT scores and other COVID-19 provisions.
When you do feel confident that your application is strong, take time to double and triple check everything. Once you hit the submit button, you’re not allowed to change most parts of your application.
But one thing that you can do is add to the list of schools. You can use this list strategically. For instance, if your MCAT has been delayed and you don’t know your score yet, you might want to apply to a single school, and then add more after you see how you did. Or you might stagger your school choices, adding 2-3 each week, so you aren’t overwhelmed with secondaries coming all at once. Your application is forwarded to the chosen program immediately, once your initial AMCAS verification is completed.
What Accepted can do for you
Submitting your AMCAS application is an important step in your journey to become a doctor. Here are some of the many ways I can help make sure your first step is successful:
1. School selection – Helping you find the best programs where you are competitive
2. Personal Statement – Making your personal statement stand out with a compelling story that highlights your individuality and shows your commitment to medicine
3. Activities and Most Meaningful Experiences – Confirming that your experiences complement your personal statement and demonstrate the qualities medical schools want to see
I’m here to help and I wish you all the very best of luck!
Check out our AMCAS Admissions Services and work one-on-one with an advisor to create an impressive, well-written, compelling application that will highlight your competitive edge and help you get ACCEPTED.
A former fellowship admissions committee member and administrator at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Cydney Foote has successfully advised healthcare applicants, including those applying to medical school, dental school, nursing and PA programs, veterinary school, public health and hospital administration programs, post-baccalaureate medical programs, residencies and fellowships. Since 2001, she has brought her marketing and writing expertise to help science-focused students communicate their strengths. Want Cyd to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!
Related Resources:
• Navigate the Med School Maze, a free guide
• How to Write the Statement of Disadvantage
• What to Include in the AMCAS Work and Activities Section
