DO Application Timeline

[premed1234543212]

I saw the AACOMAS application opens on May 4th, and can be submitted the same day. Seeing as verification will take a few weeks and most schools are rolling application, is it better to apply early in May (like AMCAS) to increase chances of getting into schools? I've seen sources say to apply in May, as well as others saying applications in June-August are still considered early. I plan to apply both MD and DO, I would love to hear from others who have applied both and how they managed the application timelines, as well as things they would do differently.

Also, is a DO LOR recommended for applications? I have multiple MD LORs but haven't worked with the DO doctor in as close capacity, I would prefer to keep the LORs, but would it be recommended to get a DO LOR?

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[CBass2288]

IF you app is completely done and as good as you can make it, sure apply as early as possible. If not, wait a month or two. I submitted AACOMAS early June and it was verified in 4 days. Secondaries starting flooding in immediately and most came in within 1.5 months. I was at the first and one of the first interview days offered for a few schools so my submission date didn't hinder me there.

AMCAS takes much longer to verify. I submitted a few days earlier (than the latest date in prior years to get verified in the first wave), and I still missed the first verification wave. Took over 5 weeks.

DO LOR is important for a lot of DO schools. Check each individual school as some require it, some prefer it, and some don't care.

 

[chilly_md]

Most do not require a DO letter now. It would be good if you can list you shadowed or worked with a DO however.

Applying a month or two later is not going to hurt you.

 

[Goro]

An early acceptance is based upon the strength of your application.

While lacking a DO letter never hurts you, having one always helps.

 

[DrFutureDO]

A May application versus a June application won’t make a bit of difference if schools don’t start interviewing until August or September