Admissions Tests

Medical schools base their admissions decisions upon your college grades, your scores on standardized tests, letters of recommendation, the personal statement in your application, and interviews.

Admissions tests are designed to measure both your scholastic aptitude (including reading comprehesion, writing, and problem solving) and your knowledge of science (biology, chemistry, and physics). It is best to take these tests after you have completed courses in biology (including physiology), chemistry (at least through organic; biochemistry is recommended), and physics. Most people take the MCAT in April of the junior year.

The following admissions tests are available:

• MCAT for allopathic (M.D.), osteopathic (D.O.), and podiatric (D.P.M.) medical schools
• DAT for dental schools study guide and sample test
• OAT for optometry schools
• VCAT for veterinary schools
• GRE for graduate school; accepted by some veterinary schools