How to choose the best medical school for you

In the world of medical school options, not all schools are made equal. Maybe that school on the Top 5 list isn’t on the top of your list. You know you want to get that MD, but you also want to feel comfortable where you are. What is a budding MD to do? How do you choose the best medical school for you?

Don’t worry, we got you. Here are some things to think about when making that important decision.

1. Academic Stats

You may think you’re not a genius, but give yourself some credit- you are a medical school candidate because you, my dear reader, are one of the smarties. Congratulations! Now, it’s even more important to choose a school that will take you where you want to go academically. As I said before- not all medical schools were made equal. Look at the MCAT acceptance averages- do your scores match up? Look at the USMLE 1 pass rates– this will be extremely important when it comes to your ability to match into the specialty of your choice. If you’re not at an American school, look at the attrition rates for their incoming batches. Those will give you a good idea of what you can expect on the academic side going to such a school.

2. University Culture

Do you like a small, family-like school environment, or do you like to melt into a crowd? Do you want to go to an HBCU or study on a beautiful seashore? Are you uber competitive and love a fast-paced learning environment? Noone knows you more than you do. You know how best you learn, and there is a medical school out there that has the culture that you identify the most with. You don’t want to feel like a misfit in your own school, so choose a university culture tht matches the one you’re most comfortable in.

(Looking for a school on the beach? Check these Caribbean schools out!)

3. Location, Location, Location

In state, out of state? Across the country? Halfway around the world? Or just down the street? Where is your desired school located? Keep in mind that tuition fees as well as housing expenses may vary based on where the school is located, and this is something you want to keep in mind as you plan and make decisions. A school that is far away means that there is no going home for the holidays, and if there is, it will take a pretty penny. It may also mean adjusting to a new state, country and climate, even. Think about this as you make your choice.

(Looking for ideas? Click here. )

4. Dollar Bills

Finally, what can your pocket handle? The best schools also require a lot of money, and if that doesn’t come easily to you, alot of loans. This doesn’t mean that you will choose a not-so-great school just because it is cheaper, considering the academic and location issues that you may face, but it simply means that you will have to make a smart financial decision and try to choose the best option you can afford. At the end of those four years, whereever you go, you will still be an MD, hundreds of thousands of dollars or not.

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You have alot of things to think about, but if you consider these four things, you’ll be on your way to making the best med school desicion you can. Don’t forget to talk to other medical students around you and ask all the questions you can as you go on your application journey.

Are you a medical student? How did you choose the best medical school for you? Let us know in the comments. Remember to follow us on Instagram @medcuteonline.