non-MSTP acceptance

[Datypicalpremed]

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So I've been trying to find the answer to this question, but most threads include high-end MD/PhD programs along with their analysis (e.g. sites that give the average MCAT scores of MD/PhD matriculants on a whole).

What are the chances of getting into a mid/low tier (usually non-MSTP, if what people have suggested is correct...) MD/PhD program with a near 4.0 GPA but with a subpar MCAT like 30? This, of course, includes a strong research backround like continuous years of research, presentations, publications, etc.

I've recieved mostly mixed responses from my peers, but most are not actually MD/PhD application veterans, so I'm obviously a little skeptical. Again, I'm only refering to mid/low tier MD/PhD programs. I know these stats probably don't have a chance at harvard, etc. 😉

Oh, and I apologize if this question has already been posted.

 

[Neuronix]

See: https://www.aamc.org/download/103200/data/garrisonhandout.pdf

This pdf shows that the stats are fairly similar between non-MSTP and MSTP acceptees. As long as the program comes with a full stipend, it's going to be competitive.

If the medical school portion is unfunded or only partially funded, it will be less competitive. I personally am of the belief that without full funding, it's not worth doing an MD/PhD program.

If the GPA is 4.0, MCAT is 30, and research experience is strong, some programs may overlook the 30, particularly if it is 10,10,10. You might meet the minimum criteria for the filters and get your foot in the door. Your best bet is lower tier MSTPs or non-MSTPs will funding, either of which are in less competitive locations (non-urban locations away from coasts).

 

[K31]

Depends what you mean by low-tier. Most medical schools have some sort of MD/PhD program; the ones that most around here would consider "low-tier" are usually unfunded for the medical school years. These programs usually aren't any more competitive for MD/PhD than for MD.

Low-tier MSTP is different. By design, these programs are at research-intensive medical schools (ie highly ranked in the USNWR rankings, and partially as a result more competitive). The list of MSTPs correlates very well with the top-40 ranked medical schools. The full funding also makes them more competitive than their affiliated medical school.

Your MCAT score probably wouldn't be a killer for some of the MSTPs so long as the rest of your app is stellar (ie you'd likely get some interviews if you pan-applied). However, upping your MCAT to the 33-34 range would get you a much better return on your applications.

 

[sks889]

I personally didn't have much time to study for the MCAT since I was already a year into a PhD program, did mediocre (31- 10 11 10) but I think because I had good research experience as well as enough posters/presentations, external funding, etc.. I still got a few non-MSTP MD/PhD interviews and was accepted to one. However I did only apply locally for personal reasons. So I think it is possible, as Neuronix stated, for programs to overlook a well-balanced low score.

Good luck to you!

 

[Datypicalpremed]

Thanks for the response guys!

As expected, my MCAT score was the main bummer. I really don't plan to take the MCAT again because I got accepted into a research fellowship this summer and I want to focus on completing a really awesome project.

Btw, I know the general consensus is at least 2 years of research (which I will have completed by the time I apply). Would this, plus an additional summer of research elsewhere, being a coauthor in a publication, being second author in another publication, and completion of a fellowship be considered a strong research background?

 

[Datypicalpremed]

Hi guys, just a follow-up question-

I was talking to one of my coworkers the other day whose also going to apply for md/phd, and she recommended taking an extra year off after graduating to do some more research (to offset my MCAT score).

So far, I plan to apply near the end of the upcoming school year (I am currently a rising senior). This will mean 2 years + 1 summer of research by the time I apply. Should I follow her advice, I would apply the following year with 3 years + 1 summer of research under my belt, just under neuronix's "excellent" ranking for research. Now, obviously, this would help, but would it be worth it?

Is there really much of a difference between 2 and 3 years of research? Based on what everyone has told me so far, my main issue is "getting through the door" with a 30 MCAT score. Would an extra year of research really make this less of an issue? Thanks in advance!

 

[Neuronix]

but would it be worth it?

Doubt it would help significantly.

Is there really much of a difference between 2 and 3 years of research? Based on what everyone has told me so far, my main issue is "getting through the door" with a 30 MCAT score. Would an extra year of research really make this less of an issue? Thanks in advance!

Not really and probably not.