Understanding the MSPE and Noteworthy Characteristics

The Medical Student Performance Evaluation is prepared by the medical school to describe a student’s record. It is one part of a residency application, not a substitute for the complete record or a guarantee of selection.

Follow Your School’s Process

Ask the office responsible for the MSPE about timing, student input, review opportunities, and correction procedures. The AAMC MSPE resources explain the recommended framework, but your school manages the document.

Prepare Verifiable Information

If invited to suggest noteworthy characteristics, identify experiences or qualities supported by specific facts. Describe your own responsibilities and achievements without embellishment. Follow the school’s requested format and limits.

Choose Useful Context

Consider significant commitments, service, leadership, research, or experiences that help explain your development. Avoid forcing every item into a dramatic success story or repeating a résumé without explanation.

Check for Accuracy

Use the permitted review process to identify factual mistakes. Distinguish a correction from a request to remove unfavorable but accurate information. Do not edit, impersonate, or submit the school’s evaluation outside its authorized process.

Keep the Application Consistent

Ensure your personal statement, activity descriptions, references, and other records do not conflict with the verified information. Discuss uncertainty with your school before submission.