Statistics & Frequently Asked Questions

Statistics & FAQ

 

MSTP Admission Statistics for AY 23/24

Number of Applicants: 161 Total Students Enrolled 2023-24: 64
Interviewed Applicants: 47 Men: 35
Number Matriculated: 6 Women:29
Average MCAT Interviewed: 516
 Under Represented in Medicine: 10
Average GPA Interviewed: 3.86
 Medicine Phase:32
  Graduate Phase:32

In recent years, the ranges of GPA and MCAT scores of accepted students are 3.32 - 4.00 and 509 - 523, respectively.

See what positions our Alumni hold.

 

What are the average standards for a successful applicant?

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.

Do you consider students who are not SC residents?

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

Are non-US citizens eligible for support?

Yes.

Do applicants from certain schools have an advantage?

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

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How do I apply?

https://education.musc.edu/admissions/ready-to-apply/apply-now/medical-scientist

Is the MCAT required?

Yes.

Will you accept my MCAT score taken prior to July 2021?

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

Is the GRE required?

No.

How are admissions decisions made?

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.

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How many letters of recommendation are required?

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.

Does the MD/PhD program have a rolling admissions process?

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

Does the MD/PhD program interview non-science majors?

Not typically.

If not accepted to the MD/PhD will I be considered for the MD program?

If applicants are not accepted to the MSTP program and are interested in applying for the MD-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.

Does the program accept transfer applicants?

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 MD Degree Program. MUSC Ph.D. students may apply for regular admissions through the regular AMCAS MD application process. See the COM Admissions homepage.

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Does the program cover tuition for medical school and graduate school?

Yes.

Will I have special responsibilities as an MSTP student?

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.

If I am currently pursuing a PhD at another institution or already have a PhD, am I eligible for this program?

No.

I have already begun the Ph.D. program at MUSC, may I apply to the M.D./Ph.D. program?

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.

Can I apply to the MSTP after I've started medical school at MUSC?

Yes, during the first two years.

When and how will I hear from MUSC regarding my application?

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

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When are interviews held?

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.

Do I have to select a PhD department when I begin the program?

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

Does MUSC provide reimbursement for travel and lodging when coming to Charleston for 2nd interviews?

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

Does your program emphasize translational research?

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.

Does your program help students with the transition back to the third year of Medical School?

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.

Do I have to start the Program by a specific date?

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

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