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When to Apply

There is no rush to apply to medical school. In fact, the average age of students entering medical school is 24, which signifies a national trend of students applying to medical school after graduation.

Application Process Timeline

Increasingly, Haverford students are applying as alumni in order to prepare a successful study plan for the MCAT, enrich clinical and work experiences, and to determine if a careeer in medicine is a good fit.

You will be a stronger applicant and a happier medical student if you take the time to enjoy your undergraduate career, reach your full potential in your science courses, and get quality medically related experience. Medical schools appreciate individuals with the maturity and experience that comes from working in challenging jobs, volunteering with underserved populations, and/or gaining more exposure to the medical field.

Be Prepared

Do your experiences reflect the academic and personal competencies that medical schools are looking for? Use our self-assessment tool to learn more. You should also be aware of the 15 competencies that you will be assessed on during the admission process.

Self-Assessment

Early Admission

While some medical schools offer conditional early acceptance programs for college sophomores or juniors, these programs have extremely competitive admission criteria requiring outstanding academic credentials and a mature, demonstrated commitment to a career in medicine.

These programs do not accelerate the time it takes to complete an undergraduate degree; however acceptance to such a program may enable a student to pursue other areas of interest while bypassing the time commitment and pressures of the traditional medical school application process. Although the early admissions programs are appealing, this path to medical school is not right for everyone. Students who are considering applying to one of these programs should consult with jbarr [at] haverford.edu (Jennifer Barr) early in their sophomore year.

The following programs are available to students either in the spring of sophomore year or fall of junior year:

Early Decision

Although some medical schools do have an early decision program, it could put you at a disadvantage for applying to other medical schools. Seek advice from Jennifer Barr and the specific medical school before deciding.