Applying to medical school begins 20 months before matriculation, and anyone who hopes to attend medical school in the fall of 2025 should plan to take the MCAT in the spring of 2024 and apply in June of 2024.
Timeline for Matriculation in 2025
Continue strong academic/work performance
Make certain will have completed all the requirements by the end of next semester
Start thinking about AMCAS/AACOMAS/ADSAS/VMCAS
Volunteer in community
Investigate options for the summer/next year
Pick up or download HP applicant guidelines and forms.
Request letters of recommendations
If on college break, consider volunteering in a health care setting or shadowing a health care provider
Submit resume and completed Applicant Information Form (don't worry yet about school list) to HP advisor by January 31
Draft descriptive entries for Experience section of application
Work on personal statement
Study for MCAT/DAT/GRE if have yet to take it
Register well in advance for the test
Relax and do well on test day!!!
Submit first draft of personal statement to HP Advisor by February 15
Follow up on recommendations
Request any non-Bowdoin transcripts and submit to HPA Office
Meet with Health Professions Advisor if logistics permit
Polish personal statement
Decide on tentative school list
Be sure your credential file is complete by March 15 (with the exception of letters of recommendation)
Letters of recommendation are due April 15
Follow up with HPA office to be certain credential file is complete
Request Bowdoin transcript with spring semester grades
Refine school list (unless awaiting test results)
Submit AMCAS/AACOMAS (or other appropriate) application