Can you rank BS/MD programs? This is a common question that I get and the quick answer is no, you can’t rank programs. But why?
The problem with trying to rank BS/MD programs is the question of what criteria do you use to rank the programs? What may be important to you in choosing a BS/MD program may not be what is important to another person.
But, that doesn’t mean that there are not factors that you as an applicant should consider in deciding which BS/MD program to apply to . Some factors you may want to consider include:
1. What is the quality of the students at the college and medical school associated with the program? By quality I mean what is their average high school GPA, what is their average standardized test score, what kind of extracurricular activities are common for students admitted to this program.
2. What are the typical MCAT scores of traditional applicants to the medical school? This will give you some idea of how strong the medical school is even if you as a BS/MD applicant may not need to take the MCAT.
3. What are the medical schools USMLE Part 1 and 2 pass rates?As a medical school student you want to make sure that you have the best chance of passing the required tests to advance to your medical degree.
4. What are the residency placement rates? Ideally after 4 years of medical school you will get a residency placement in a field you have an interest in. The strength of the medical school at placing students into residency programs is an important issue to consider.
What’s the best BS/MD program isn’t the question to ask. Rather, ask what is important to you in finding the best program for you.
Want more information about BS/MD programs? Check out the Guide to BS/MD Programs.
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