Getting into medical school is not as easy as it sounds. The stiff competition involved in the process is indeed a daunting one. Nevertheless, the varying entry requirements into various medical schools tend to balance the competition, thus, creating room for a more focused search.
That is to say, some schools demand high MCAT scores while others demand lower MCAT scores. However, in this article by Kiiky, we’ll highlight the best medical schools with low MCAT requirements.
Yearly, over 53,000 individuals are filling out more than 816,000 applications nationwide. The average potential medical student tenders 16 applications in search of acceptance. Only about 40 percent of those students will get enrolled in US schools.
Therefore, when the competition is so tough it will be in your best interest to know which schools accept less than perfect GPA and MCATs.
Table of contents
- What Is MCAT?
- Why Do Medical Schools Require MCAT?
- Are There Medical Schools That Don’t Require MCAT?
- What Is the Lowest MCAT Score Accepted into Med School?
- What is the highest MCAT score?
- What are the Medical Schools that don’t require MCAT Requirements?
- List of Early Assurance Medical Schools that don’t require MCAT
- 17 Best Medical Schools With Low MCAT Requirements
- 1. University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine
- 2. LSU Shreveport School of Medicine
- 3. University of Mississippi Medical Center
- 4. University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine
- 5. University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
- 6. Wayne State University School of Medicine
- 7. University of Tennessee Health Science Center
- 8. University of South Dakota – Sanford
- 9. East Carolina University – Brody
- 10. Augusta University
- 11. University of Nevada – Reno
- 12. University of Arizona College of Medicine
- 13. University of Massachusetts School of Medicine
- 14. University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine
- 15. Medical University of South Carolina
- 16. University at Buffalo SUNY – Jacobs
- 17. University of Texas Medical Branch – Galveston
- Conclusion
- FAQs On Best Medical Schools With Low MCAT Requirements
- We Also Recommend
What Is MCAT?
The Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT, is more than just a necessity for medical school admissions. It is a multiple-choice, computer-based, graded exam that is required for access to medical schools in the United States and Canada.
The exam not only measures your content knowledge in General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, General Biology, Biochemistry, Physics, Psychology, and Sociology—it also tests your critical analysis and reasoning skills.
In a nutshell, MCAT is developed and conducted by the test maker Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) to provide med schools with standard measures for analyzing applicants’ qualifications and preparedness for med school.
Why Do Medical Schools Require MCAT?
MCAT is one of the admission requirements used for analyzing medical college applicants’ qualifications and preparedness for med school.
Medical school admissions committees look at your MCAT score, along with your academic record and supporting materials, to assess your foundations to build a successful medical career.
Are There Medical Schools That Don’t Require MCAT?
Well, we can’t really tell you that there are medical schools that don’t require MCAT. Just that there is lowest MCAT score accepted into med school.
Fundamentally, MCAT has proven to be one of the vital prerequisites to get into medical college. However, there are exemptions.
For traditional medical school admissions, students are expected to complete a bachelor’s degree program, which includes the essential courses of Physics, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, General Biology, English, and usually your choice of humanities courses. At some point during a student’s matriculation, he or she will then take the MCAT before applying to medical school.
However, BA/MD programs and BS/MD programs (as well as BA/DO and BS/DO programs) exist wherein students apply to joint degree programs while in high school and change to medical school after completing a required number of hours towards their BA degrees.
For many of these programs, the MCAT requirement is ignored. Basically, it’s like applying to medical school while still in high school. Granted, these programs do require stellar SAT or ACT scores, but they do save a lot of time and money by waiving the MCAT for students who are expressly determined.
See Also: Best Medical Schools in Texas | 2023
What Is the Lowest MCAT Score Accepted into Med School?
Your MCAT total score will range between 472-528, with 500 as the average score. Each of the four MCAT sections is scored between 118-132, with 125 being the average score (i.e., 50th percentile) for each section.
That being said, the lowest mcat score accepted into med school is solely dependent and determined by the medical school itself. To guarantee success in med school, all you need is a minimum of 504.
What is the highest MCAT score?
528 is the highest possible MCAT score, which matches to the 99.9th percentile. Anything that exceeds 520 is a 99th percentile score or higher.
What are the Medical Schools that don’t require MCAT Requirements?
In our list, we’ll group these medical schools that don’t require mcat based on programs.
BA/MD and BS/MD programs:
These joint programs provide exceptional high school students with the opportunity to secure a spot in medical school before even beginning undergraduate studies.
Essentially, students will earn either a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) before entering medical school to pursue a Doctor of Medicine degree (MD).
- CUNY School of Medicine
- Drexel University College of Medicine
- Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
- Northwestern University The Feinberg School of Medicine
- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
- The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- University of Florida College of Medicine
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
List of Early Assurance Medical Schools that don’t require MCAT
Early assurance programs allow academically excellent undergraduates to apply to medical school at the conclusion of the second or beginning of their third year of study.
Students can easily avoid regular entrance restrictions, making this a quick road into medical school. That being said, below are some of the medical schools that don’t require the MCAT:
- Albany Medical College Early Assurance Program
- Brody School of Medicine Early Assurance Program
- Dartmouth University Geisel School of Medicine Early Assurance Program
- Georgetown University School of Medicine Early Assurance Program
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Flex Med Program
- Tufts University School of Medicine Early Assurance Program
- University of Rochester School of Medicine Early Assurance Program
- University of Toledo College of Medicine MedStart Program
For people in Canada, here are Allopathic med schools that don’t require MCAT:
- University of Ottawa
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine
- McGill University
- Université Laval
- Université de Montréal
- Université de Sherbrooke
17 Best Medical Schools With Low MCAT Requirements
After thorough research, we came up with the 17 best medical schools with low MCAT requirements.
1. University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine
First on our list of MD schools with low MCAT is the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. This school provides quality education for diverse and competent biomedical sciences researchers and physicians with the scientific, professional, and ethical knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to provide exceptional health services, with empathy and humanism, at the forefront of technology.
The minimum MCAT score for consideration is 490. While the minimum GPA is 2.5 the average of students is much higher at 3.7. To that effect, the school has proven to be among the medical schools to apply to with low MCAT.
READ ALSO: How To Effectively Study For The MCAT And Pass
2. LSU Shreveport School of Medicine
Louisiana State University makes our list of medical schools with low MCAT requirements LSU has a low out-of-state acceptance which is a downfall. A recently developed residency program has opened the door for out-of-state applicants.
Furthermore, their GPA, MCAT, and tuition requirements are reasonable. Their acceptance rate is 11% with an average GPA of 3.7 and MCAT scores of 503.
3. University of Mississippi Medical Center
The University of Mississippi School of Medicine is also among the md schools with low mcat requirements. This medical school allows multiple health-related programs.
Currently, the average medical school acceptance rates remain near 7%. At UMMC, acceptance rates reach nearly 41%. UMMC demands a minimum of 2.8 GPA; however, most applicants have about 3.6 GPA and a 504 MCAT score.
Further, UMMC’s medical program holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accreditation.
4. University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine
The University of Missouri – Kansas City another lowest MCAT score accepted med school that allows six medical programs with 19 specialties.
Prospective students have the option to enroll in the UMKC B.A. plus M.D., which can be completed in six years, or the M.D. program. Unlike many medical programs, UMKC exposes students to hands-on, practical exposures during their freshman year through weekly clinical experiences.
While UMKC holds overall accreditation from the LCME, the university also maintains specialty area accreditations.
With a 20% acceptance rate, UMKC welcomes a diverse population of students. Learners must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and a 500 MCAT score; however, most aspirants have a 3.5 GPA and a 505 on the MCAT.
5. University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
You won’t say the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences is among the medical schools that don’t require MCAT, because it does. Just that it’s one of those medical schools with a low Mcat.
Talking about the university, the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, students can acquire a doctor of medicine within four years.
As the oldest university in North Dakota, UND has connections throughout the state, which exposes students to multiple clinical facilities after their second year.
While UND holds a Higher Learning Commission accreditation, the medical program also has an LCME accreditation.
UND demands an average of 3.79 GPA from her applicants. Furthermore, the school of medicine values well-rounded students; therefore, other factors influence admission.
Successful applicants demonstrate exemplary communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills. UND holds a 17.8% acceptance rate with a median MCAT score of 505.
6. Wayne State University School of Medicine
With over 150 years of dedication to Detroit, Michigan, Wayne State University School of Medicine provides exemplary clinical care and social responsiveness through cutting edge research and innovation. This program also earned the second-highest rating for medical research statewide. The School of Medicine has 25 departments and multiple support services. The curriculum allows students to accrue hands-on patient care experience from the beginning of their program. Most applicants hold a 3.7 GPA and score 509 on the MCAT, while the school retains a 9.3% acceptance rate.
Students at the School of Medicine at Wayne State gain exposure to diversity, culture, and professional etiquette through field experience. Students engage in community outreach through volunteering at free clinics, attending the homeless, or mentoring Detroit students. In addition to local experiences outside of the classroom, the School of Medicine also provides opportunities to travel to South America, Africa, or Asia.
7. University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Since its inception in 1911, the University of Tennessee has dedicated education to research and medicine. Today, the university renders education to over 3,000 students; 1,300 fellows; and represents $4 billion of the Tennessee economy. Additionally, the Health Science Center faculty has gained over $80 million for research, equipping students with access to cutting-edge data. In fact, the university is a leading state school for disease research.
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers online courses that meet the academic standards of the Southern Regional Education Board. The school also holds accreditation from the SACSCOC. Aspirants have an average 3.7 GPA and a 510 MCAT score. The Health Science Center has a 13.8% acceptance rate with 694 students registered.
8. University of South Dakota – Sanford
The University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine is nationally known for its distinction in medical education. With its award-winning curriculum, USD prepares medical students to practice in all fields of medicine and is particularly recognized for its reputation in family medicine and rural medicine. In addition to the M.D., USD offers graduate degrees in basic biomedical science.
After the second year, students work at hospitals and ambulatory clinics throughout the state. USD Sanford School of medicine holds ALCME accreditation. Aspirants require a 3.8 GPA and an average 509 MCAT score.
9. East Carolina University – Brody
The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University aims to improve the health of eastern North Carolina citizens, increase the number of quality primary care physicians in the states, and improve access to medical education for less privileged students.
Over the past three years, medical students of Brody have given over 72,000 hours of volunteer work, reaching over 230 communities. This famous school of medicine requires to score a 508 on the MCAT and hold a 3.7 GPA. Brody retains accreditation with the SACSCOC and LCME.
10. Augusta University
The Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, students complete the program in seven or eight years. Unlike many medical programs, the Augusta University Medical College of Georgia provides flexibility by permitting students to enter the program at different stages in their education.
Alongside a premium education, students get to network with physicians, researchers, professors, and classmates. According to findings, the Medical College of Georgia educates more physicians than other Georgia medical schools, and nearly 50% of graduates start their careers at Georgia hospitals.
Total enrollment at Augusta University’s Medical College of Georgia wavers around 962 students with a 12.1% acceptance rate. The university demands a 3.8 GPA and an average score of 511 on the MCAT.
11. University of Nevada – Reno
The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine offers an integrative curriculum that combines science-based concepts with clinical practice.
Students use lab facilities to engage in hands-on practicals. Unlike some programs, students work in a clinical environment within the first year. The School of Medicine also allows multiple dual degree programs, concentrations, and specialties. Additionally, students can participate in multiple research studies.
With a 12% acceptance rate, the Reno School of Medicine creates a diverse population of medical students. The average MCAT score is 508 and an average GPA of 3.7.
12. University of Arizona College of Medicine
The University of Arizona College of Medicine proudly accepts academically diverse students. They want students for more than their grade point average and MCAT scores.
The university’s admissions committee looks for students who: appreciate the humanities, demonstrate respect for ethics in their profession, good academic and personal life, strong critical thinking skills, problem-solving ability, and demonstrated skills, and lastly, a solid foundation in the sciences.
The acceptance rate at the University of Arizona College of Medicine is 3.6%. MCAT score minimums are 498 with an average of 509. GPA minimums are 3.0 with an average of 3.9. These are only one aspect of the acceptance process at UofA.
13. University of Massachusetts School of Medicine
UMass School of Medicine tuition is among the most affordable in the US. It is approximately $22,887 a year for in-state students.
They receive over 3600 applications a year and accept 162 students. Most of the matriculated students are from in-state. Out-of-state applicants take 17% of the application quota.
The average GPA is 3.73 with an average MCAT score of 509.
14. University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine
The University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine focuses on providing care to rural and underserved populations throughout the state. While the programs strive to meet current patient needs, the OU School of Community Medicine also spearheads medical innovation through research, in-house educational resources, and collaborations with other universities and community organizations.
Furthermore, students participate in multiple ongoing research studies and use state-of-the-art, high-tech robotic mannequins to acquire clinical skills.
With a 9.7% acceptance rate, the average applicant scores 509 on the MCAT and has a 3.8 GPA. The program also holds accreditation from the American College of Surgeons Accredited Education Institute and endorsement from the American Society of Anesthesiologists.
15. Medical University of South Carolina
The Medical University of South Carolina aims for academic excellence and exemplary patient care. As the only academic medical facility in the state, MUSC offers nearly $4 billion to the South Carolina economy. The school also provides students access to a network of professionals throughout the state. As a Level 1 trauma center, the Medical University gives students invaluable field experience.
Furthermore, students gain access to a mentor program that provides learners with support from a professional. Additionally, MUSC encourages students to build relationships with their professors and receive additional guidance with ease. With an 11% acceptance rate, about 160 students are admitted to the MUSC program each year. MUSC demands a minimum 495 MCAT score; however, most candidates score a 510 on the MCAT and have a 3.8 GPA.
16. University at Buffalo SUNY – Jacobs
The University at Buffalo, State University of New York, now called the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences exposes learners to a variety of professional environments. The curriculum supports students to exercise critical judgment and problem-solving skills. The program’s mission includes improving wellness across the state while creating a worldwide impact.
Established over 150 years ago, the program has significantly impacted the medical community through her inventions and processes, including implantable cardiac pacemakers, newborn screening, treatments to slow multiple sclerosis progression, and the first minimally invasive process for spinal surgery.
The Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences receives 140 medical students each year, which yields a 1:3 professor-student ratio. Most applicants have a 510 MCAT score and a 3.8 GPA.
17. University of Texas Medical Branch – Galveston
UTMB curriculum follows goals and objectives promulgated by the Association of American Medical Colleges. As the first Texas academic healthcare facility, the university maintains an innovative spirit, allowing students to flourish without limitations through excellent patient care and cutting edge research.
UTMB holds multiple accolades, including the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines Resuscitation Gold Award for administering quality improvements to cardiac arrest patients and the Silver Award for pediatric patient care.
Qualifying students can enroll in UTMB’s honors research program, which augments the standard curriculum. Students receive ongoing, thorough support from online and in-person services, including personal counseling sessions. The university retains accreditation with the SACSCOC. Most students score 511 on the MCAT and hold a 3.9 GPA.
Conclusion
The Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT is one vital requirement to get into medical school. Therefore, the duty is yours to secure the dream by passing your MCAT. Good luck!
FAQs On Best Medical Schools With Low MCAT Requirements
MCAT is a multiple-choice, computer-based, graded exam that is required for admission to medical schools in the United States and Canada.
528 is the highest possible MCAT score, which matches to the 99.9th percentile. Anything that exceeds 520 is a 99th percentile score or higher.
MCAT is one of the admission requirements used for analyzing medical college applicants’ qualifications and preparedness for med school.
To guarantee success in med school, all you need is a minimum of 504
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