Applying to medical school involves a lot of moving parts, but it doesn’t have to be confusing. Here’s exactly what medical schools look for in 2025, broken down simply, clearly, and authentically—without the usual fluff.

This guide covers:

  • Required classes (prerequisites)
  • Target GPA and how to boost it
  • Competitive MCAT scores
  • Clinical experience hours
  • Choosing meaningful extracurriculars
  • Letters of recommendation tips
  • Writing standout admissions essays
  • Interview prep & CASPer exam

medical school requirements

 

1. Required Classes: Medical School Prerequisites

Medical schools generally expect you to have completed:

  • Biology (with labs) – 1 year
  • General Chemistry (with labs) – 1 year
  • Organic Chemistry (with labs) – 1 year
  • Physics (with labs) – 1 year
  • English or Writing-intensive courses – 1 year
  • Mathematics (Calculus or Statistics) – at least 1 semester
  • Social Sciences (Psychology, Sociology) – recommended

Do you have to major in a science?
No. Major in something you genuinely enjoy, as long as you cover these prerequisite courses. This way, you’re more likely to maintain a strong GPA.

2. GPA: What’s Good Enough for Med School?

Most med schools are looking for a GPA of 3.5–3.7 or above. Admissions committees prefer applicants with consistently strong grades, but if your GPA isn’t quite there yet:

  • Take additional upper-level science courses and perform well in them.
  • Retake a course if you received a lower grade.
  • Show a strong upward trend by improving your grades every semester.

Want to see how you measure up? Use our SOS Admissions GPA Calculator.

3. MCAT Scores: How High Should You Aim?

A competitive MCAT score in 2025 usually falls between 510–515. To score in this range, create a structured study plan:

  • Allow 3–4 months to prep.
  • Take multiple timed practice tests.
  • Focus extra study time on your weaker areas.

A strong MCAT helps open doors, but admissions committees also evaluate your complete application.

4. Clinical Experience: How Many Hours Do You Need?

Medical schools prefer to see at least 150 clinical hours, including direct interaction with patients. Good examples of clinical experience include:

  • Volunteering in a hospital
  • Working as an EMT, CNA, or medical assistant
  • Clinical internships at medical clinics

Clinical experience proves you understand the realities of patient care.

5. Extracurricular Activities That Stand Out

Medical schools value experiences beyond just academics. Quality beats quantity every time, so pick a few meaningful activities, such as:

  • Long-term volunteer projects (local charities, hospitals)
  • Research experience in health sciences
  • Leadership roles on-campus or in the community
  • Personal interests like music, sports, or artistic pursuits that demonstrate teamwork and dedication

6. Letters of Recommendation: Who Should Write Them?

Most medical schools expect between three and five letters, ideally from:

  • Two professors in science courses
  • One non-science professor
  • One supervisor from your clinical experiences (highly recommended)

To receive strong recommendations, build genuine relationships early. Meet professors during office hours and participate actively in class.

7. Admissions Essays: Your Personal Statement & Secondary Essays

Your personal statement helps admissions teams understand your motivations and experiences. The most powerful statements are authentic, personal, and original.

When writing yours:

  • Use specific examples and personal stories, avoiding clichés.
  • Explain clearly why you chose medicine.
  • Connect your experiences directly to your future goals.

Learn more at SOS Admissions Personal Statement Help.

Secondary Application Essays:

These typically cover prompts about your background, diversity, personal challenges, or specific interest in the school. Each should be uniquely tailored to match each school’s mission and values.

8. Medical School Interviews & CASPer Test Prep

Medical schools use interviews to evaluate your interpersonal skills and motivations. There are two main types:

  • Traditional panel interviews: Questions about your background, experiences, and goals.
  • Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI): Short scenarios to test your ethics and decision-making.

Practice both extensively using realistic mock interviews.

Additionally, some programs require you to take the CASPer test, a situational judgment exam measuring interpersonal skills and ethics. Practice sample scenarios to build confidence and clarity.

For professional preparation, visit SOS Admissions Interview Prep.