How to Pick a Medical School

Pursuing medical education is a major decision. Here are a few of the many things to consider when choosing a medical school.

Your philosophy – Allopathic (traditional MD) or osteopathic (DO)? The difference between Doctors of Medicine and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine is minimal when it comes to education, residency training, and actual practice. But according to the American Osteopathic Association, DOs are more holistic in their approach to patients, tend to choose primary care specialties, and are trained in osteopathic manipulative therapy.

Your interests – Are you more interested in research or clinical medicine? Do you want to be a specialist, a professor of medicine, or a small town primary care doc? While it’s not imperative to know all the details now, having some idea of what you want to do in medicine will help improve you application choices as well as make you a better candidate.

Your school’s accreditation – It might be easier to get into an unaccredited school overseas, but it may cost you in the long run if you plan to practice in the US.

You’ll need to pass an additional exam to be licensed, and finding a residency or employment may be more difficult. Even if you don’t get into a top ranked institution, all accredited medical schools must meet rigorous standards for teaching, research and patient care. You’ll get a quality education, especially if your school’s mission coincides with your career interests in medicine .

Your location- Do you need to be near family? Do you have a spouse that needs to work, or complete their own education, or kids that need to be in a decent school district? Remember, you’ll be living in that city or town for at least four years.

Your ability to pay – Many medical schools offer scholarships but competition is stiff. However, if your grades and scores are high, your chances for scholarship money may be good. Government loans are still available, but still may not be enough to cover all expenses. An internet search of private sources may be fruitful, especially if you have a particular interest, or are a member of a club or organization that makes scholarships available. If you are willing to work in a medical shortage area, or be in the Armed Forces, National Health and National Armed Service Corp. scholarships will cover a year of school for every year that you serve.

Your preparedness – Your medical school has to choose you, so be the best candidate possible. In addition to the MCAT and the required courses, medical schools are looking for well rounded people. Consistent involvement in your community or genuine passion for a particular cause can strengthen your application. The American Association of Medical College’s manual – Medical School Admission Requirements has information about each accredited medical school – class profiles, degree programs, and anything else you need to know. You can find one in your college library, bookstore, or purchase it online. Good luck.