SHC Medical School Mythbusting

True or False: You need a 520+ MCAT score to get into medical school

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False! Nationwide, the median MCAT score for MD school matriculants is about a 512! Remember, this means that 50% of students who got in scored LOWER than a 512

True of False: Freshman Year Grades don't count

• True

• False

Answer explanation

All your grades are considered by admissions committees. This includes courses you've retaken, dual enrollment courses, courses taken at other institutions, etc

What is the most important factor that med schools consider in admissions?

• GPA and MCAT

• Extracurriculars and leadership

• Personal statement and secondary essays

• all of the above

Answer explanation

Med schools use holistic admissions processes! GPA and MCAT are very important, but it's also important to be a well-rounded applicant who can speak about their experiences

True or False: Med schools prefer biology majors

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False! You can major in any subject that interests you so long as you complete prerequisite coursework

On average, how many medical schools do applicants apply to in a single cycle?

• 1

• 5

• 10

• 15-20

Answer explanation

It is important to apply broadly and create a well-balanced school list with a mix of reach schools and targets!

True or False: You need clinical experience to get into med school

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True! Clinical experience is one of the most important parts of your medical school application!

True or False: Taking a gap year will cost me money and decrease my chances of getting into medical school

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False: Nationwide, over 60% of MD school matriculants are taking 1 or more gap years. Gap years can also be a great opportunity to work, travel, and spend time with friends/family

Which activity is NOT a substitute for clinical experience

• Shadowing

• Volunteering at a hospital

• Working as an EMT

• Interning as a medical assistant

Answer explanation

Shadowing should NOT be the only clinical experience on your application. Shadowing is a very passive activity, so it's very important to get involved in a clinical setting

True or False: The average student matriculates to medical school when they are 22

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False! the median age of matriculants to medical school in the US is 24!

True or False: I should focus only on science classes

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False: Many med schools have a humanities requirement! Taking humanity courses also can help show you are a well-rounded applicant!