AMCAS vs. Certiphi

[Revolver1045]

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[235788]

So I just responded to a thread regarding this, but I'd like to get a broader opinion.

I called AMCAS regarding misdemeanors. On the application it explicitly states that you should report "misdemeanor CRIMES". I called them and asked if I needed to disclose a "petty misdemeanor" which the law (in most states with petty midemeanors) explicitly states are NOT crimes. They are considered petty or minor offenses and are thusly not crimes. This includes most traffic and some alcohol related violations. Anyways AMCAS specifically told me NOT to report them if they're not CRIMES.

However, when I called certiphi about this they said that regardless if it is a crime or not they WILL report anything to schools that include the word "misdemeanor".

So, petty misdemeanors (some alcohol violations) to AMCAS = don't report

But petty misdemeanors to certiphi = report

Ultimately, adcoms see something that wasn't neccesary to report

Note: I had a friend that had a disorderly conduct and consumption who followed this logic and when the school found out and ask him about it, he simply wrote up a report to them explaining what I did above. That they are not crimes and are therefore not necessary to report. The school accepted his explaination and he matriculated.

Anyways, I have a petty misdemeanor and I'm not sure what to do with it yet. I'm not posting this for opinions on whether I should disclose it or not, I just wanted this information to be out there and see what people think about it.

You report misdemeanors on both

 

[EBTrailRunner]

Better safe than sorry.

 

[jHustle]

I think it's very common for applicants not to report minor related offenses like that. It seems the biggest issue a med school would have is if you failed to report a felony or drug conviction of some sort. I doubt they'd rescind your acceptance because you failed to disclose a traffic ticket, considered a misdemeanor, in your state or other minor things. With that said, I'd listen to AMCAS and not report it. No need to bring negative light to your situation if it most likely won't be addressed. And again, even if it is, if it's a minor offense then I'm sure a letter will clear it up.

 

[Revolver1045]

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[Erek94]

I'd say just report anything that is in question and let the adcoms decide what the significance of the incident is. I did that this last cycle and I was fine.