What Are The Odds That I Make It To Medical School

by Sebastian
(Indiana)

Hello, I am Hispanic and I am doing a premed program here in the States. What are the odds that I make it to med school?
I need advice because I am considering going back home and studying there.
Please let me know what your advice.
Thanks

DOCTORPREMED's RESPONSE:

There are a number of things which you will want to consider, because there is no clear cut answer as to what are your odds of getting into medical school.

As a premedical student the most important thing you can do to improve your chances of getting into medical school is excelling in all of your coursework and obtaining the highest grade point average (GPA) possible.

Secondly, when you are closer to applying the score you get on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) will be important too.

These two values (GPA and MCAT score) will give you an adequate idea of how you will fare in applying to medical school and more importantly getting admitted to medical school.

Also you will want to be a well-rounded applicant who has done extracurricular activities (work, research, volunteering, and community service), have strong letters of recommendation, and showcase that you have a solid understanding of what it means to be a doctor.

Specifically, you will want to determine where you want to practice medicine: United States or home country? This will dictate a lot of things going forward and if it is in the United States I would strongly encourage you to complete your premed requirements here in the States.

In short, getting into medical school is not easy and requires a lot of work. You must go above and beyond the bare minimum requirements to be successful because on average there are 45,000 applicants to medical school and only 18,000 people who get in so roughly 60% of applicants will not get into medical school.

Do the best you can and find mentors who can guide you throughout your premedical years and answer your specific questions as they arise.

Good Luck,

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