Do I really need to attend a postbac premed program like MEDPREP to apply to med school?
Premedical post-baccalaureate programs offer structure and support for students to achieve their goals. In Postbac MEDPREP, for example, we have designed a framework with career-changers like you in mind—everything from a dedicated Director and support team, targeted science-intensive coursework, knowledgeable faculty and advisors, and a resource-rich environment to get you where you want to go.
When is the deadline to apply to MEDPREP?
Applications open August 1st. You can submit an application starting mid August through early March. Find out more about our application cycles.
What if I took all of the science courses or the MCAT as an undergrad and did not do well?
Postbac MEDPREP may not be the best fit for you. Our program is designed for career-changers from a non-science background. To enhance your undergraduate record, please consider a Master’s program within a biomedical department at the University of Michigan Medical School, particularly a Master's in Molecular and Integrative Physiology. If you have questions about your suitability for MEDPREP, please contact us.
What courses will I take as a Postbac MEDPREP student?
Our curriculum is specially designed for exceptional post-baccalaureate students with little or no science background who would like to apply to medical school. The majority of MEDPREP’s coursework emphasizes scientific material that is considered essential to the foundation of aspiring physicians: biology, physics, chemistry, physiology, and biochemistry. The curriculum also includes MCAT preparation, guest lecturers and small group discussions on various topics in undergraduate medical education. See our Timeline & Curriculum page for a sample pathway through the program.
How will I prepare for the MCAT?
As part of your Postbac MEDPREP experience, you will receive online instruction and support through a self-paced online prep course.
How many students will be admitted to MEDPREP?
Postbac MEDPREP cohorts are targeted for 25-30 students.
Does the University of Michigan Medical School admit students from premedical post-baccalaureate programs?
Yes! Postbac and other non-traditional students are encouraged to apply to the University of Michigan Medical School. Additionally, MEDPREP is one of a select few postbac programs to have a linkage agreement with the U-M Medical School.
What is the cost to attend the program?
Postbac MEDPREP is competitively priced with structured postbac premed programs across the country, with tuition starting at $29,000 for Michigan residents. Please see our information on tuition and fees for a more in-depth description of the tuition rates.
What will life be like for me as a Postbac MEDPREP student?
You will be busy, but highly engaged with motivated peers in a rewarding, resource-rich setting. Our program is designed to connect you as quickly and effectively as possible to the next step in achieving your dream of becoming a physician. You will enjoy the same amenities as any other student on campus, including access to dedicated advisors and faculty, research mentors, community service opportunities and academic support.
What is it like to live in Ann Arbor?
Ann Arbor is a unique community where a myriad cultures converge to create a distinctive dynamic. It’s a great place to visit, and an even better place to live. The city's reputation for comfortable living is backed by a variety of rankings and housing options. Ann Arbor provides endless options for culture, dining, entertainment and sporting events in an accessible, urban environment. For more information on life in Ann Arbor and Michigan Medicine, visit the Go Blue Guide.
I am currently in a health related profession, but would like to pursue an MD, would I be a good candidate for Postbac MEDPREP?
Postbac MEDPREP is intended as a career changing program for individuals who have not taken many science courses. In general, if you have taken more than half of the science requirements for medical school you are not eligible for the program. If you have a question about your suitability for the our program, please open an online application and upload your transcript and resumé. After uploading these materials, request a consultation from a program representative. Please note, you should not “submit” the application (i.e., pay the application fee) prior to requesting a consultation.
If you are not eligible for our program, you may want to look into one of our Master's programs or another post-baccalaureate premedical program more aligned with your skill set.
Are Postbac MEDPREP Students able to work while enrolled in the program?
Most likely no, Postbac MEDPREP is designed to be a program where students are fully engaged in the rigorous/science-intensive curriculum, MCAT prep, experiential learning activities, and the University of Michigan community as a whole. While we recognize and appreciate that students have lives outside of the classroom, a large part of our students time will be spent preparing to become the most competitive applicant for medical school admission.
What academic record is considered competitive for admission?
While a 3.5 or above undergraduate GPA is considered competitive for Postbac MEDPREP, we will take into consideration trends in your academic performance, including how you performed in upper level courses as you progressed through your undergraduate studies. Moreover, coursework completed after the completion of a Bachelor's degree, such as a Master's degree or certificate program, are considered extremely relevant in evaluating a candidate's preparedness for Postbac MEDPREP.