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APPLYING TO HEALTH PROFESSION SCHOOLS

Primary applications and selecting schools

For the 2027 application cycle

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Primary Applications

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The primary application includes:

  • Biographical data
  • Academic record
  • Exam scores
  • Experiences section
  • Essay(s)

Occasionally also includes school-specific information such as information about courses, short answer questions, or additional essays.

The primary application

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Your application should reflect…

  • Every aspect of your qualifications
  • Solid, consistent performance
  • Exceptional traits, personal experiences
  • That you have chosen this career through a thoughtful, fully-informed process
  • Enthusiasm, motivation, professionalism
  • Exquisite attention to detail

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Some central application services:

  • AMCAS (MD schools except Texas)
  • AACOMAS (DO schools except Texas)
  • TMDSAS (Texas med, dent, and vet schools)
  • VMCAS (all other vet schools)
  • AADSAS (all other dental schools)
  • CASPA (physician assistant programs)
  • NursingCAS (nursing programs)
  • OptomCAS (optometry schools)
  • OTCAS (occupational therapy programs)
  • PTCAS (schools of physical therapy)
  • SOPHAS (schools of public health)

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Selecting schools

  • Look for fit, not just metrics
  • Consult databases, school/program websites; attend virtual fairs, open houses
  • Consider: public/private, tuition, geography, curriculum, your goals and interests
  • Apply to your state school, where applicable
  • Select a range of competitiveness
  • Med typically submit 15-20 applications, fewer average for other professions
  • Non-med/dent applicants: look closely at schools early in the process

Selecting schools