Medical School Linkages

An exciting feature of our program is the strong links we have formed with many medical schools that offer conditional early acceptance to our students.

Our Legacy of Success

�� offers the largest selection of linkage medical schools, and we have some of the longest-standing relationships with these schools.

Applying to Our Linkage Medical Schools

Linkage Programs

Linkage FAQs

Applying to Our Linkage Medical Schools

During the postbac year, you may apply to only one of our linkage schools. These schools evaluate applicants based on their academic performance so far and their ability to meet specific requirements. You’ll need to maintain strong grades at �� and, in most cases, take the MCAT. If accepted, you’ll begin medical school right after completing the one-year program—on a conditional basis.

While linkage is a popular option and open to all postbac students, it’s not the right fit for everyone. You might prefer taking a glide year before starting med or dental school, or you may be interested in schools outside our linkage agreements. Some students may also not meet the eligibility criteria.

There’s a lot to consider, and we’ll begin discussing your options a few months into the program. You won’t need to decide right away.

As schools update their policies each year, we tentatively expect to have formal linkage agreements with the following institutions this year:

Linkage Programs

You won’t need to decide about the linkage option right away—there’s plenty of time to explore whether it’s the right fit for you. A few months into the program, we’ll begin discussing your goals and options in depth.

Throughout the fall semester, you’ll have opportunities to: virtually visit linkage schools and connect with postbac alumni who chose to link.

You’ll then be able to talk one-on-one with the Director to make a well-informed, realistic decision about how to move forward.

Collapse All

How many students choose the linkage option?

Approximately 35-45 students per year apply to medical school through the linkage process.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the linkage process?

Applying through linkage means committing to a school early—if accepted, you’ll go straight to medical school after the postbac year, skipping the glide year. It shows serious interest and dedication to that school.

However, linkage isn’t for everyone. You might want a year off for personal or financial reasons, or you may prefer schools outside our linkage agreements.

What are the linkage requirements?

Our linkage partners have minimum undergraduate and postbac GPA requirements, which vary each year. Most schools require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.6 or higher, while preferring to see grade metrics well above minimum thresholds. Some schools have a minimum GPA as high as 3.75.

All requirements are subject to change, year to year.

Is the MCAT required for admission to the linkage schools?

Many linkage schools require the MCAT, often with a minimum score and a test date in April or May. A few schools do not require the MCAT, but most of those will ask for SAT or ACT scores instead.

Our staff will guide you through each school’s testing requirements so you can plan ahead and prepare accordingly.

Do I have to maintain a certain grade point average at �� if accepted?

Yes. Medical school admission will be provisional upon completing your postbac courses with a minimum grade point average set by each school.

Do linkage schools require additional coursework beyond the core courses in ��’s program?

Some of our linkage partners require additional competencies in math (and/or statistics), biochemistry, English, and social science. Competency in biochemistry is fulfilled by our Biological Organic Chemistry course. Course requirements for linkage are reviewed in detail with students, usually in the summer.

Can I apply to more than one linkage school?

No, because your application indicates your special interest in—and serious commitment to—one particular school.

How is my application to a linkage school evaluated?

Linkage decisions are based on your qualifications at the time you apply. Acceptances are conditional—you must maintain strong performance at ��.

Some schools consider your �� coursework during their evaluation, and many require the MCAT, often with a minimum score. Our staff will help you understand each school’s specific requirements so you can prepare accordingly.

Who can apply for the linkage option?

The linkage option is most appropriate for students who are prepared to make a commitment to one medical school, and are ready to start medical school immediately following completion of the postbac program. Students must also meet the academic eligibility requirements set forth by the linkage school.

When can I apply to a linkage school?

You can begin the linkage application process during the fall of your postbac academic year.

Do I have to apply to a linkage school?

No. Applying to link is a choice.

Am I obligated to attend, if accepted?

Yes, you are obligated to attend as soon as you complete the postbac program.

Do linkage schools limit the number of applications they will consider?

Most of the linkage schools do not set a limit on the number of applicants from our program.

What happens if I apply to a linkage school but am not accepted?

If you are not accepted, then you can apply in the general application cycle for matriculation in the following academic year.

��

Resources for