westcoastlove

Although some programs such as Brown PLME, Northwestern HPME, and Rice/Baylor do not require MCAT, will some residency programs require them? If so, is that an majority? Will attending one of the "non-MCAT" programs or programs that require low score affect residency applications?

just wondering

thanks!

highflyer

MCAT is a screening mechanism combined with GPA, personal statement and CV to screen candidates get admit to medical school.

To get into residency programs, there are several process. USMLE (United states medical license exam, step I), test the first two years of clinical science core classes. The score is important to rank the candidates, and recommendations letters, interviews for residency, personal statement. CV etc.

So, basically as a potential medical student, there are screening and ranking processes every 3 years or so.

Non-MCAT programs DO NOT have any bearing on residency applications, but the strength of the candidates during medical school and making the best use of residency matching algorithm will determine our residency match.

However, there are more tricks and tips in the residency applications.

waterplove

I read this somewhere and am interested in everyone's take on it:

"my experience after having matched: my dean's letter did not have my MCAT score. one program that i applied to specifically asked for MCAT scores to be emailed separately...not even had to send an official copy, just email them what you got.

Not sure why everyone thinks MCAT doesn't matter for residency. Any of you actually go through the match yet? Because I did six interviews (three Ortho, three Gen Surg), and they asked for my MCAT score at every one.

I had to provide MCAT scores and undergrad transcripts to numerous places that I applied to for residency.""

Son of Liberty

yeah I've heard that residency directors will sometimes ask students for their mcat scores during interviews. the general consensus is that it's not much of a factor at all in the evaluation process. And if you told them that you were part of a combined medical program, assuming your board scores are all in order, they'll understand.

westcoastlove

so it seems like MCAT scores may not matter for med school as much, but they are important for residency

Son of Liberty

what are you talking about? MCAT scores matter A LOT for med school. They are right up there with gpa in terms of the most important admissions factor. they don't matter at all for residency.

norcalguy

There's a difference between being asked for it and having it matter. I've never heard from anyone that the MCAT mattered (or at all) a great deal for residency.

westcoastlove

Son of Liberty, I mean the 8-year programs that don't require them or only need very low scores