Applying to medical school can feel overwhelming. Between exams, essays, and deadlines, it’s easy to lose track of what happens when. This guide breaks down the MD application cycle into two main parts — what to do before and during the cycle — so you can plan ahead and stay organized.

*A high-level summary of what to do before and during the application cycle*

Before the Application Cycle (Pre-Application Phase)

Timeline: July – April (the year before you apply)

1. Plan Your Timeline

Start by deciding which year you’ll apply. If you want to start medical school in Fall 2027, plan to apply around May–June 2026 — meaning your preparation begins about a year earlier.

Tip: Create a simple tracker or calendar with key deadlines for your MCAT, personal statement, and recommendation letters.

2. Take or Retake the MCAT

Plan to take your MCAT no later than April or May of your application year. Give yourself three to six months to prepare using full-length practice exams and review materials. A later but stronger score is better than an early weak one.

3. Ask for Letters of Recommendation

Ask for letters two to three months before you apply. Professors and mentors often need time to write thoughtful letters. Provide them with your résumé, personal statement draft, and a short summary of your goals.

4. Write Your Personal Statement

Start drafting in March or April. Focus on your motivation for medicine, personal growth through experiences, and what makes you unique. Expect to revise multiple times before finalizing.

5. Choose Your School List

Research schools based on their missions, academic averages, and location preferences. Aim for 35–40 schools that balance reach, target, and safety options.

During the Application Cycle

Timeline: May – March (the year you apply)

1. Submit Your Primary Application

May: AMCAS opens for input
June: Submissions begin
August: Applications transmitted to schools
Your primary application includes your personal statement, Work & Activities section, transcripts, MCAT score, and letters. Submitting in June gives you the best chance for early review since schools review applications on a rolling basis.

2. Secondary Applications (July–September)

After your AMCAS is verified, schools send secondary essays specific to their missions. Submit these within two weeks of receiving them to stay competitive.

3. Interviews (August–February)

There are two main interview formats:

Traditional: one-on-one conversations
MMI (Multiple Mini Interview): short stations testing communication and ethics

Practice questions like:

Why medicine?
Why this school?
Tell me about a time you faced a challenge.

4. Update and Interest Letters (November–March)

If you’ve achieved something new — a publication, leadership position, or new clinical experience — send an update or letter of interest. Keep it brief and professional.

5. Decisions (October–April)

October 15: First possible acceptance date
March–April: Waitlist movement and final offers

By April 30, applicants must “Plan to Enroll” or “Commit to Enroll.” If you accept an offer, withdraw from other schools promptly.

Final Thoughts

The MD application cycle is a long but manageable journey. Start early, stay consistent, and give each phase your full effort. Small, steady steps now make the biggest difference later.

What Should I Know About the MD Application Cycle?