Apply
Applying to health profession programs is a key step in your journey, and it requires careful planning and strategic preparation. This page will guide you through every aspect of the application process, from understanding the timeline and preparing for standardized tests to managing financial planning. You’ll learn how to effectively share your story through a personal statement, secure strong letters of recommendation, and prepare for interviews. We’ll also cover important strategies for reapplying, including how to assess your previous application, seek feedback, and strengthen your candidacy for a second chance. With the right tools and support, you can confidently navigate the application process and continue to grow as a strong applicant.
Your Path to Success
The Application Timeline
It’s important to plan ahead and apply early to increase your chances of acceptance. Applying early can give you a competitive advantage by showing commitment and may allow you to receive an acceptance decision sooner.
Suggested Timeline
Click to view application timeline & checklistTest Preparation
Standardized tests are a critical component of your application. Prepare for standardized tests required for your intended profession (e.g., MCAT for medical school, DAT for dental school, etc.). Review available resources, create a study plan, and take practice tests.
Most students begin their test preparation about a year before they plan to submit their application. Keep in mind that preparation timelines vary based on individual schedules and needs. Consider factors such as potential retakes, breaks in studying, or time needed to focus on other commitments. Aim to take your exam early enough to allow for a retake, if necessary, while ensuring your final scores are ready when applications open.
Create a Study Plan
Develop a detailed study plan allocating time each week to specific topics and review sessions. Adjust your schedule based on your comfort level with the material and availability.
Use a Mix of Resources
Test prep books, Online courses, Practice Exams, question banks and flash cards.
Take Practice Exams
Set aside time to take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. Analyze your results to identify strengths and areas that need improvement.
Financial Planning
Applying to health profession schools can be expensive. Fees include:
- Primary Application Fees: Charged by centralized application services like AMCAS or AACOMAS.
- Secondary Application Fees: Charged by individual schools.
- Testing Fees: For the MCAT, DAT, or GRE.
Fee Assistance Programs:
Explore programs like the AAMC Fee Assistance Program (FAP) to reduce costs.
The Application:
Sharing Your JourneyPersonal Statement
A Personal Statement outlines your achievements, interests, and goals. It serves to convey your unique story, values, and motivations for pursuing a career in healthcare.
This is your chance to share your story and values including:
- Your motivation for a healthcare career
- Key experiences shaping your decision
- Long-term career goals
- Commitment to serving underserved communities
Writing Tips
Start early! Be authentic and reflective. Revise multiple drafts, and seek feedback from mentors or advisors.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do: Focus on personal experiences and how they shaped your career path. Use specific examples to illustrate your passions and values. Show growth and self-reflection through challenges or learning experiences.
Don’t: Avoid cliches (e.g. “I want to help people”).
Revision & Feedback
Revising drafts and seeking feedback are essential parts of the process. Share your statement with mentors or use campus resources like the Writing Center to ensure your personal statement is compelling, concise, and polished.
Letters of Recommendation
Who to Ask? Your letters of recommendation should come from individuals who know you well and can speak to your academic, clinical, and professional abilities.
Choose recommenders strategically—select individuals who have observed your skills and growth over time. A detailed letter from someone who knows you well is much more valuable than a generic one from a prominent person who barely knows you. Be clear about your goals when you ask, and share why you’re applying to the program. This helps your recommender highlight your most relevant qualities and experiences.
Double-check the specific requirements of each program, as the number and type of letters needed can vary.
Common recommenders include:
- Professors (especially in science courses)
- Clinical supervisors
- Research mentors
How Many Letters Are Needed?
Most programs require 3-5 letters. Some may specify a minimum, while others allow additional letters. Be sure to review each school’s guidelines to ensure you’re meeting their expectations.
How to Request Letters
Start early by building strong relationships with potential recommenders. Attend office hours, engage in meaningful class or work discussions, and keep them informed of your progress. When it’s time to request letters, ask at least 1-2 months in advance. Provide the following materials to help them write a strong, timely letter:
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- Resume/CV (Sample CV – BioSci, Sample CV – PreMed)
- Personal statement
- List of achievements
- Specific instructions and deadlines
Consider asking for feedback on your personal statement or resume before they write the letter. This helps them understand how you’re framing your application and which experiences or qualities to emphasize.
Following Up
Follow up about 2 weeks before the deadline to ensure the letters are submitted on time. After your letters are submitted, send a thank-you note to express your gratitude. Not only is this courteous, but it also leaves a positive impression if you need additional letters in the future. Consider using a service like Interfolio to track letters and send reminders if necessary.
Maintaining the Relationship
Keep your letter writers updated on your application progress and any significant milestones. Maintaining these relationships can be helpful for future recommendation needs.
Interviewing
Schools may invite you to interview after reviewing your application. There are different types of interviews, including:
Traditional Interviews
One-on-one or panel interviews where you discuss your experiences, motivations, and fit for the program.
Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs)
A series of short interviews or “stations” that assess various skills, such as communication and ethical reasoning. The goal is to assess how you think on your feet, communicate, and solve problems.
Preparation Tips
Practice, practice, practice!
Conduct mock interviews with peers, mentors, or through your advising office. Tailor your responses to reflect your genuine interest and experiences.
Arrive early, wear professional attire, and maintain good posture, eye contact, and active listening throughout.
After the interview, always send a thank-you note to express your appreciation.
Second Chances & Growth
Understanding Reapplication
If you’ve applied to health profession schools but didn’t get accepted, it’s important to know that many applicants are successful on their second or even third attempt. Reapplying is not uncommon, and with the right strategy, it can be an opportunity to strengthen your application and demonstrate growth.
Self Assessment
Before starting the reapplication process, conduct an honest self-assessment of your previous application. Ask yourself:
- What worked? Identify the strengths in your original application. This could be strong letters of recommendation, relevant experiences, or a compelling personal statement.
- What can be improved? Determine where you fell short. Was it your GPA, test scores, clinical experience, or interview performance?
Seek Feedback
If possible, seek feedback from the schools to which you applied. Some schools provide feedback to applicants who were not accepted, offering insights into what areas of your application could be improved.
Strengthening Your Application
Once you’ve identified areas for improvement, take steps to address them:
- Academic Improvement: If your GPA was below the school’s expectations, consider enrolling in post-baccalaureate programs or retaking key courses to raise your grades.
- Gaining More Experience: Increase your clinical exposure, research involvement, or community service hours. Take on leadership roles in your volunteer work or extracurricular activities.
- Standardized Test Retakes: If your test scores (e.g., MCAT, DAT, GRE) were not competitive, create a new study plan and retake the exam, aiming for a significant improvement in your score.
- Personal Statement Revision: Reflect on how you’ve grown since your previous application. Update your personal statement to highlight new experiences, insights, and your commitment to improving as an applicant.
- Letters of Recommendation: If your letters were generic or weak, cultivate stronger relationships with mentors, professors, or supervisors who can write detailed and enthusiastic recommendations.
Reapplying Thoughtfully
Reapplying often requires starting from scratch. Keep the following timeline in mind:
Retake Standardized Tests Early
If you need to retake the MCAT, DAT, or GRE, give yourself ample time to study and perform better.
Submit Early
As a reapplicant, submitting your application early is even more crucial. Show the admissions committees that you are prepared and ready to commit to the process again.
Stay Positive and Persistent
Reapplying can be emotionally challenging, but persistence is key. Many successful healthcare professionals were not accepted the first time they applied. Focus on how you’ve grown, and use the reapplication process as an opportunity to become an even stronger candidate..
Reapplying to health profession schools can be an opportunity for growth and improvement. By assessing your previous application, seeking feedback, and making strategic enhancements, you increase your chances of success. UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways is here to support you through the reapplication process, just as we are with first-time applicants. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance as you move forward in your healthcare journey.