low tier md/phd programs?

[markovchn123]

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I just wanted to know what programs are considered low tier when it comes to md/phd. I know that low tier doesn't really apply to md/phd because it's so competitive to even get into a program but does anyone know a lit of schools off the top of their head that have lower gpa/mcat averages? When I say low I mean like 3.7 GPA, 33 MCAT

 

[Datypicalpremed]

Don't really have a list, but just wanted to emphasize that a low tier MD/PhD program is not necessary easier to get into than a mid/high tier program.

Many "low-tier" programs have much fewer slots than "mid-tier" programs, tend to have location biases and may have strings attached (eg not funded). For example, a low-tier in the Midwest accepts only 1-2 students per year and relies heavily on state funding to support the program so it tends to interview instate applicants. A decent MSTP program accepts 7-9 students per year and tends to interview students from all over the country since it is MSTP. You might actually have a better shot at the MSTP program.

Anyways, this is just based off of my experience when I applied...

 

[eteshoe]

You're stats are decent enough for MSTP. Make sure your ECs are in order and apply wide.

 

[markovchn123]

You're stats are decent enough for MSTP. Make sure your ECs are in order and apply wide.

I just wanted to find some programs where I could use as a safety but I guess the better bet is to do what you said and apply to many schools.

 

[Lucca]

I just wanted to find some programs where I could use as a safety but I guess the better bet is to do what you said and apply to many schools.

Not really such a thing as a safety in the MD/PhD game I'm afraid. Stats are high, programs are small, funding is limited. "Low-tier" dual degree to me means you have to compete independently for funding

 

[Fencer]

There are at least 20 (likely ~40) non-MSTP MD/PhD programs that are fully funded throughout the 7-9 years of training. Just in Texas, there are 5 of them, which provide you an excellent education, a stipend that goes very far, and no educational debt. Applying for individual NIH fellowships once is seen as part of your education, after all, your life as clinician-scientist in the future is about writing awesome grants and manuscripts. All of them are competitive. The median scores of my class are slightly higher than your numbers, but a number doesn't define you.

Once again, for MD/PhD programs, state of residency does not matter (as long as you are US citizen or permanent resident).

PM me for further discussion, if needed.