Admissions

Successful applicants to this highly selective program generally have earned a bachelor's degree at least one year prior to applying, possess an excellent academic record, and have demonstrated ability in standardized testing. They typically have a clear understanding of the challenges awaiting them in their chosen health care field, gained through substantial (usually a year) volunteer work or employment in a related field.

Successful applicants have a B or higher average in their undergraduate work, have competitive standardized test scores, and have worked or volunteered in a clinical setting or in another service-related capacity prior to application.

Many of our students hold graduate or professional degrees. They have been educators, musicians, social workers, psychologists, lawyers, writers, architects, business people, and graduate students from fields as diverse as classics and physics. Others join the program after a period of volunteer service, either abroad or in the United States.  Graduates have been admitted to the some of the nation's most prestigious medical schools.

Eligibility

The Admissions Committee examines with care the academic background of each applicant, taking into consideration previous institutions attended, courses completed, cumulative and science grade point averages, and standardized test scores. Personal statements (application essays) and professional, volunteer, research, shadowing, and other health-related experiences are also considered during the admissions process. In the process of selection, the Admissions Committee considers each applicant’s academic potential, intellectual strength, and ability to think independently plus the competitiveness of the applicant pool. The Committee also considers the motivation of the applicant and whether he or she is likely to be a contributing member of the Penn community.

After a complete application is received and reviewed, candidates under further consideration are invited to interview with a member of the Admissions Committee.  If it is not convenient for you to come to campus, we will arrange a telephone interview.