Medical Does geographic diversity actually matter for medical school admissions?

[Goro]

I’ve heard from several people that schools consider “geographic diversity” in the admissions process. I am asking because out of my school list (n=18), only one of these schools had a student from my state even though many of the schools I’m applying to are large private schools. Will being from an “underrepresented” state help, hurt, or have no affect on my application?

I believe that it is just the opposite. Admissions deans like ot have local people because they're more likely to attend, because most want to stay close to home.

This is a very rough rule of thumb, based upon looking at schools in MSAR as to where matriculants are from, and talking to my wily old Admissions deans.

I don't think schools are willfully casting a net for people from SD or ND, for example.

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[Mr.Smile12]

Along with Goro's point, I think the mission statement at each school will drive what is meant by geographic diversity. Remember some state-sponsored/public schools have restrictions on geographic representation (WWAMI or similar as an example). I agree that "geographic" may also mean environmental background (highly urban or highly rural in addition to suburban where a good number of medical applicants come from). Hopefully the curricular offerings and student services are supportive for students coming from those environments.

Now if you are from a state that is not often observed among those represented in a school's student body, I think you may have a good chance, but not one that provides a true statistical boost unless the seat is otherwise guaranteed through an agreement to consider your state residency status as an advantage.

 

[Catalystik]

"Geographic diversity" can also refer to regional origin, eg south, northeast, etc. Also I've seen state schools that consider applications based on an applicant's county of residence within the state.