Admissions Statistics & FAQ

The Admissions Committee looks for evidence of serious and enthusiastic commitment to research, with receipt of a baccalaureate degree prior to matriculation into the program. The average GPA of students accepted into our program is 3.85, and MCAT is 516. However, we conduct a holistic review of applicants, and an MCAT at or above 504 will be considered. Other important factors considered are significant research experience and clinical shadowing, and volunteer work. We also suggest that the applicant complete courses in anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology; however, these are not required.

Yes. The program attracts exceptional applicants from educational institutions across the nation.

Yes.

No. Applicants are reviewed based on their research experiences, GPA, MCAT and recommendations.

You may apply by visiting the MSTP Application page.

Yes.

No. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores must be taken within 3 years from the date of matriculation (July 1).

No.

Once our office receives the AMCAS application, letters of recommendation, and the supplemental application, the Admissions Committee will review the completed packet to decide whether to invite the applicant for an interview or place on the waitlist. Following the interview, the MSTP Admissions Committee meets monthly to review the applicants' evaluations. Since we have a rolling admissions process, many students are placed on the waitlist until the end of the interview season, when they are all reviewed together.

At least 3 letters of recommendation are required. At least one of those letters should be from a scientist with whom the student has conducted research. All letters are submitted through AMCAS.

Yes. However, most offers are made toward the end of the interview season.

Not typically.

If applicants are not accepted to the MSTP program and are interested in applying for the M.D.-only program, they must notify the College of Medicine Admissions office by emailing COM-Admissions@musc.edu. These applications will be reviewed separately from the MSTP. Preference is given to South Carolina residents or out-of-state applicants with strong close ties to SC.

No. The Medical Scientist Training Program does not allow transfer of medical students into the program from other institutions or admission to the program with advanced standing. For more information, see the College of Medicine Transfer Admissions Policy for the M.D. Degree Program. MUSC Ph.D. students may apply for regular admissions through the regular AMCAS M.D. application process. See the COM Admissions homepage.

Yes.

Yes. We invite all MTSP students to play an active role in recruitment and evaluation of incoming MSTP applicants. Students in the MSTP are also active in leadership roles in both the College of Graduate Studies and the College of Medicine.

No.

Students in the first year of the Ph.D. program at MUSC may apply with approval from the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies. If accepted to the M.D./Ph.D. program, you would begin in the first year of medicine in the fall. Students beyond the first year of the Ph.D. program at MUSC are not eligible but could finish their Ph.D. and apply to the M.D. program.

Yes, during the first two years.

Communications from MUSC will be via email from Amy Connolly. You will be contacted at the following intervals:

• Following receipt and verification of the AMCAS application, recommendations and Supplemental application
• Prior to your interview to make arrangements and be given a schedule
• After your interview with update of status in the program

The initial round of interviews will be held virtually from October through the end of January. After acceptance to the program, second visits will be held in person in February or March.

No. You will have a chance to experience at least 2 laboratory research experiences.

If an applicant is invited for a second interview, the program reimburses for flight or mileage and pays for lodging expenses.

Yes. While we believe that our trainee should develop a strong basic science research project, we have several opportunities for the trainees to learn how to conduct translational research. For example, the Translational Science Clinic and a Month in Research Nexus provide rich training opportunities.

Yes. We have a refresher session for all returning students. In addition students during their Ph.D. years maintain their clinical skills through the CARES clinic and the Translational Sciences Clinic.

Students are required to start no later than July 1. Exceptions to this requirement must be approved by the program director.