What’s the average number of medical schools to apply to?

What Is the Average Number of Medical Schools Applicants Apply To?

In 2022–2023, 22,712 students were accepted to allopathic (MD) medical schools out of the 55,188 applicants, which is an overall acceptance rate of 41%. The average number of medical schools students apply to is 16, with most applicants applying to 15-20 medical schools, but this varies based on factors like GPA, MCAT score, work and volunteer experience, and other preferences. Most sources suggest applying to no less than 15 programs and no more than 40 programs. In Canada, the number is typically lower due to fewer medical schools and region-based preferences.

Key considerations for each applicant:

• Competitive applicants (high GPA/MCAT) may apply to fewer programs (15-20)
• Those with lower stats should consider 20+ schools to maximize chances.
• Applying broadly (MD + DO) can improve acceptance odds.
• Re-applicants should consider applying to 35+ schools

Make sure to consider Tuition, Chance of getting accepted, Avg. MCAT score and GPA, Location, and Class size

Should I Apply to Schools Where My GPA and MCAT Scores Are Below the Average?

Applying to a few reach schools is fine, but balance is key. Consider this approach: 

• Safety Schools (Stats above the average) – 30-40% of your list. 
• Target Schools (Stats near the average) – 40-50% of your list. 
• Reach Schools (Stats below the average) – 10-20% of your list.

An example breakdown would look something like this: 5-9 Target Schools, 6-10 Reach Schools, and 5-7 Safety schools. Mk tools like the MSAR (Medical School Admission Requirements) or Motivate MD’s school selection guide to compare your stats with school medians.

Is There a Downside to Applying to Too Many Medical Schools?

Yes. While applying to multiple medical schools increases your chances, applying to too many can have drawbacks: 

• High Costs – Application fees, secondary fees, possible interview travel, and other costs add up. 
• Time-Consuming – Secondary applications require personalized responses. If you apply to too many schools, the quality of your writing may suffer.
• Burnout Risk – Keeping up with interviews, secondaries, and follow-ups for 30+ schools can be mentally exhausting.

Tip: Apply strategically rather than excessively. And be honest about the strength of your application and how many schools you will need to apply to.

How Can I Effectively Manage Multiple Applications?

Juggling multiple applications requires careful planning. Here’s how: 

• Create a Tracker and Timeline – Keep track of programs, applications, and deadlines with an excel spreadsheet, a notion board, or a word document. 
• Pre-write Secondary Essays – Many schools have similar prompts (e.g., “Why this school?”). Use resources like Motivate MD’s secondary essay guide to help write templates for common questions. 

Prioritize Certain Schools – Spend more time on schools that align with your goals.

Should I Consider Both MD and DO Programs?

If becoming a physician is your priority, applying to both MD and DO programs can increase your chances. DO schools increase the number of programs you can apply to in your area and have more flexible admission criteria. Use the Choose DO Explorer tool to explore options.

Can I Add More Schools After Submitting My Primary Application?

Yes! AMCAS and AACOMAS allow you to add schools after submission (before deadlines pass). You can utilize this feature if you:

• Receive fewer interview invites than expected
• Learn about a new school that fits your goals and resume

Determining how many medical schools to apply to requires focusing on quality over quantity. A strategic approach, balancing reach, target, and safety schools, will help maximize your chances while avoiding unnecessary costs and added stress. Need help crafting the perfect school list? Check out Motivate MD’s personalized application coaching.