Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL QUESTIONS
APPLYING TO EMORY
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
AFTER APPLYING TO EMORY
FINANCIAL AID
ALREADY IN MEDICAL SCHOOL

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Can I schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor?
Unfortunately, we do not have admissions counselors. However, we are happy to answer any questions over the telephone. All the information you need to know about applying to Emory School of Medicine is included on this website, but if you prefer to speak with a member of our staff, just give us a call. 404/727-5660. Here are some of the basics:

In order to meet Emory course requirements, you will need to complete at least four full years, with labs, in the basic sciences (one year in each of the following areas: biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics). We expect medical school students to have a sound knowledge in these areas, prior to attending medical school.  

For the class admitted 2007, the average MCAT score was 34.4 and the average GPA was 3.7. Emory receives over 5500 applications each year for its incoming class of 132 students, so you’ll need to be competitive in order to be invited for an interview.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that the application “season” begins 13 months prior to each year’s fall semester, so be sure to plan ahead. Applications are submitted online via the American Medical College Application System (AMCAS) at www.amcas.org, beginning June (for application to the fall of the following year).

You may also find it helpful to meet with your pre-medical advisor at your college or university for assistance applying to medical school.

What courses should I be taking to prepare for medical school?
In order to meet Emory course requirements, you will need to complete at least four full years, with labs, in the basic sciences (one year in each of the following areas: biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics). We expect medical school students to have a sound knowledge in these areas, prior to attending medical school.

You will also need to complete six semester hours of English (a full year of college-level grammar and composition). If you feel that your coursework in other areas would fulfill this requirement, you will be given an opportunity in the Emory Supplemental Application to explain. This does not guarantee that an exception will granted. The final decision rests with the Admissions Committee. Exceptions are made for individuals with very high grades or for those who demonstrate grammar and composition aptitude in other areas (MCAT scores, thesis work, publication of research/articles, etc.).

Lastly, you will need to complete at least 18 hours of coursework in the Humanities and Social Sciences. Examples of courses that meet this requirement include:

• Anthropology
• Art/Art Appreciation/Art History
• Black Studies/African American Studies
• Classical Studies
• Foreign Languages
• History
• Journalism
• Literature
• Music/Music Appreciation
• Philosophy
• Political Science
• Psychology
• Religion
• Sociology
• Theater/Film Studies
• Women’s Studies

Do I have to be a pre-med major to apply to Emory?
You do not have to be a pre-med or biology major to apply to Emory. Every year, we admit students with non-science majors. The most important consideration is that you meet the course requirements, including four full years in the sciences (see question above for complete list of course requirements).

Does it matter where I go to college?
Emory accepts students from state schools, as well as private schools. We do not consider students from any particular college or university to be more prepared for medical school than others, although we do recognize that some schools are more academically rigorous than others. What you do and accomplish during your undergraduate career speaks more highly of your preparation for medical school, than does a degree from a particular institution.

If your undergraduate degree is from a college or university in the United States or Canada , the college or university must be regionally accredited in order for you to qualify for admission to Emory. For a list of accredited schools, please visit the website for the Council for Higher Education Accreditation at http://www.chea.org/directories/ . Look for their “Institutional Database”.

What if I’ve been out of college for a while?
Over 40% of last year’s class had taken a year or more “off” after college. Some took full-time jobs, some did overseas volunteer work, others pursued their interests outside of medicine. We do not consider this a disadvantage.

Some applicants feel that they need to take a few post-graduate science courses to strengthen/refresh their knowledge in the sciences. This is not required, but consider that you will need to be able to submit strong, recent MCAT scores (taken within four years of matriculation) in order to be competitive.

Does Emory have a post-baccalaureate program to prepare students for medical school?
Emory does not have a post-baccalaureate program designed to prepare students for medical school; however, you may qualify for admission to Emory College as a student in special standing (non-degree seeking student) if you would like to take an undergraduate science course or courses.

Where can I find out more information about the Physician Assistant or other Allied Health programs at Emory?
You may contact the Allied Health Admissions Coordinator at 404/727-5682 for information about these Allied Health degree programs:

• Radiologic Technician
• Physician Assistant
• Ophthalmic Technician
• Anesthesiology & Patient Monitoring
• Physical Therapist