Bachelor's Degree (4 years)
Complete prerequisite coursework while developing a strong academic foundation. Gain clinical exposure through volunteering, shadowing physicians, research, leadership, community service, and other meaningful extracurricular experiences.
Clinical & Professional Experience (Often 1-2+ Gap Years)
Many successful applicants spend one or more years strengthening their applications before medical school. Common activities include clinical employment, research, service programs, graduate education, public health, or other professional experiences that deepen clinical exposure, demonstrate commitment to service, and strengthen readiness for medical training.
Apply to Medical School
Complete prerequisite courses, prepare for the MCAT, obtain letters of recommendation, and submit applications through AMCAS, AACOMAS, or TMDSAS.
Medical School (4 years)
Complete two years of foundational biomedical science followed by two years of supervised clinical clerkships across multiple medical specialties.
Residency (3-7 years)
Complete specialty training while caring for patients under supervision and progressively assuming greater clinical responsibility.
Optional Fellowship (1-3+ years)
Some physicians pursue additional subspecialty training following residency.
Independent Practice
Begin practicing as an attending physician in hospitals, clinics, academic medical centers, community health centers, government agencies, industry, research, or other healthcare settings.
