Applying to MD/PhD in addition to MD-only?

[CarlosFizer]

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Sorry if there are threads on this already, I found one but it didn't satisfactorily answer my question.

Anyway, I have just completed my freshman year in college as a pre-med. I am currently seeking laboratory experience, as I am very interested in research. I am interested in both the research and clinical side of medicine, hence why I am interested in the dual-degree MD/PhD programs. However, I do understand they are quite competitive.

With that said, would it negatively affect me in the eyes of MD/PhD adcoms if I were to apply to MD-only schools in addition to these dual-degree programs? I am willing to make MD/PhD my "plan A" but with it being very competitive, it's probably smart to have a backup plan. I've read UPenn's stance on this but I'm struggling to find anything else on this topic. Any input on this would be very appreciated, thanks. 👍

 

[Neuronix]

In a few years when it's time to apply, come back with your GPA, MCAT score, and a description of your research experience. Then we can tell you if it makes sense to apply MD as a backup.

Generally, pick MD-only OR MD/PhD and go with it unless your application is not up to snuff and you want to maximize your chances of getting into medical school that year.

 

[Ombret]

Some schools will consider you for both MD and MD/PhD simultaneously, or will move you into the MD-only category if they hose you from MD/PhD.

 

[ImagineThis]

I imagine that this depends largely on your situation. For example, if you have poor stats and are unlikely to gain admission to an MD/PhD program but still have a shot at some MD-only programs (such as your state school), then I think this could be easily justified. However, if you were very competitive as a MD/PhD applicant but applied to MD-only as well this may indicate a lack of commitment to the program. If you are doubting your own desire to become an MD/PhD what would incentivize schools to spend a ton of their own money and research on your training? Spots are already limited, and the last thing programs want is people to drop out unnecessarily, so if this was the situation, I think it could certainly have a negative impact.

As a side note, I don't think there is a definitive answer to your question. Others can correct me if I am wrong, but I think it is largely variable based on school. The important point, though, is it CAN have a negative impact on your application.

That being said, you are a Freshman, so you have plenty of time to do things right to make sure that you can apply to ONLY MD/PhD programs and have a really good shot at getting in. Keep your grades up, try and do well on the MCATs, get some clinical experiences in, and spend as much time as you possibly can in the lab trying to do research at the highest level possible.

Best of Luck!