Pre-Health

How to Apply

Applying to medical, dental, veterinary, or allied-health schools is an intricate process. It is important that you plan ahead and meet with a pre-med advisor to ensure you are making progress toward your goal.

OVERVIEW

Applying to medical school usually takes place during your junior or senior year. Keep in mind that the application process takes approximately one year to be completed. (For example, if you submit your application in summer 2026, you are applying to join a medical school class for entry year 2027.) Prior to submitting your application, you will have spent time planning, acquiring knowledge from foundational courses that are part of the prerequisites for your particular field(s) of interest (and will help to prepare you for the MCAT), and expanding your portfolio by participating in high-impact experiences, such as shadowing, volunteering, and clinical involvement in patient care. The Center for Career and Professional Development page has a wealth of information and valuable resources to help you in this process.

Helpful Links

TMDSAS Application

To apply to medical schools in Texas, you need to complete and submit the TMDSAS application. Keep in mind that although it says applications begin to be transmitted June 1, that doesn’t mean that if you submit your application on June 1st it will be transmitted the same day. It takes them 2-3 weeks to validate your application BEFORE transmitting them to the schools. 
AMCAS Application

 If you wish to apply to MD schools outside of Texas, you need to complete and submit the AMCAS application.

Fee Assistance Program Award

The many costs associated with applying to medical school may discourage some students from applying. The AAMC believes that these costs should not be a barrier to anyone who aspires to become a physician. The AAMC Fee Assistance Program is one resource that helps to offset some the application costs.

AACOMAS Application

If you are wish to apply to DO schools outside of Texas, you need to complete and submit the AACOMAS application.

Apply early and read all application directions carefully to avoid delays. Colleges begin receiving applications June 15. Colleges of osteopathic medicine also make admissions decisions on a rolling basis, so they review applications, conduct interviews, and make admissions decisions throughout the admissions cycle. Keep in mind that interview slots may be awarded and/or classes may be filled if you apply close to the deadlines. Submitting materials early and accurately will support timely processing and help avoid delays. 

Here are some pointers as you prepare your application:

  • Explore osteopathic medicine and familiarize yourself with our 36 colleges of osteopathic medicine using AACOM’s  Choose DO Explorer
  • Prepare your application materials, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and transcripts ahead of time. Review the AACOMAS application instructions for more information.
  • Apply early and when ready. Keep in mind that ready may look different this year. AACOMAS schools intend to adapt their application review processes to mitigate the many obstacles you are facing. Be sure to check out the Choose DO COVID-19 Resources Page for specific resources to help you be successful.

And don’t forget, if you get stuck along the way, visit the AACOMAS Applicant Help Center