TMDSAS: Drivers, start your engines.

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Okay, yeah, stupid question about AMCAS, as soon as I looked it up they were pretty clear about it. But I think I'm being pretty dumb with TMDSAS because I can't find the transcript request form or anything on their site. Where is it?

Also is it okay if I submit the transcripts well before I submit my application? I'm moving for the summer and I'd prefer getting the transcripts done now before I leave, but I won't be submitting my application until mid July when I get my MCAT scores in.
 
secret25 said:
Okay, yeah, stupid question about AMCAS, as soon as I looked it up they were pretty clear about it. But I think I'm being pretty dumb with TMDSAS because I can't find the transcript request form or anything on their site. Where is it?

Also is it okay if I submit the transcripts well before I submit my application? I'm moving for the summer and I'd prefer getting the transcripts done now before I leave, but I won't be submitting my application until mid July when I get my MCAT scores in.
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1. The transcript request form is right here (.pdf, 48 KB). You can find it by going to the TMDSAS site, then Applicants Click Here, then Application Instructions, then Transcripts.

2. I did. May as well get everything submitted as early as you can.
 
Thanks everyone, I don't know why I couldn't find that earlier.
 
TMDSAS coursework question:
It says that you must list all the courses that you've dropped, but my transcript doesn't list dropped courses. Do you think it's *absolutely* required, or can I get away with not listing a few? (Really, I can't keep straight which courses I dropped and when.)
 
whirlwind10 said:
TMDSAS coursework question:
It says that you must list all the courses that you've dropped, but my transcript doesn't list dropped courses. Do you think it's *absolutely* required, or can I get away with not listing a few? (Really, I can't keep straight which courses I dropped and when.)
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Wow, I bet a lot of people wish they had this problem! 😉

Not helpful, I know.
 
does everyone do both of the extra essays or just one or the other???

I am down to that and editing the personal statement (which seems like a pain in the butt to format into the application!)

Hopefully I will be submitted within a week or so!
 
whirlwind10 said:
TMDSAS coursework question:
It says that you must list all the courses that you've dropped, but my transcript doesn't list dropped courses. Do you think it's *absolutely* required, or can I get away with not listing a few? (Really, I can't keep straight which courses I dropped and when.)
Click to expand...

Only include stuff that's on transcripts. If you dropped a class during an add/drop period when it is NOT recorded on a transcript, then that doesn't count. But they DO want to know about classes where you dropped in the middle of a semester and what-not so they don't have to go digging through your transcripts to find them.
 
So how long is it taking to be procesed right now?
 
Hey folks,

Looks like the first batch went out today. I got an email from the TMDSAS saying my app was processed and passed along to my schools.
 
More Courework questions:
1. In my school everyone is required to take a test to see if you can place out of Writing Composition before starting freshman year. What do I list as the semester? (It was during the summer, and it wasn't a class.) Also, what do I list as the grade? (It's only pass/fail, but since you can designate classes as Pass/Fail, this is something different.) I tried leaving these items blank, but the app doesn't allow you to save with blank spots.

2. On my transcript, Gen Chem Lab is listed as a different course than Gen Chem, even though they were basically taught together. Do I just put the same grade that I got in the lecture class, even though the lab is listed as 0 credits?

Thanks!
 
the activities section is really annoying... you think I can get away with including a publication in the awards/recognitions section?
 
Wtf!

I finished my personal biography section.... and listen all my ECs there

now I move onto section 7) Which is the EXACT same thing! (Chronology of activities) in a different format... what is going on!?
 
bozz said:
Wtf!

I finished my personal biography section.... and listen all my ECs there

now I move onto section 7) Which is the EXACT same thing! (Chronology of activities) in a different format... what is going on!?
Click to expand...

First time filling out TMDSAS, eh? Welcome to Redundancy Hell, where you'll see the same thing three times but have to fill out the entries a different way each time. Sorry, no copy and paste here. Enjoy! 👎
 
Did anyone send in hard copy MCAT score report?
I reported my scores to TMDSAS through the AAMC score report services 2 weeks ago, still hasn't shown up on their site as received.
 
I take it you simply click Send scores to TMDSAS on AAMC's MCAT THX?
No payment nothing!? Has it gone through lol!? and how do you know?


Ahhh and UT Southwestern's Secondary page is down... is it a separate process from the regular TMDSAS app? I can't imagine what Southwestern could possibly ask... since TMDSAS already has 2 optional essays.
 
Last edited:
bozz said:
I take it you simply click Send scores to TMDSAS on AAMC's MCAT THX?
No payment nothing!? Has it gone through lol!? and how do you know?


Ahhh and UT Southwestern's Secondary page is down... is it a separate process from the regular TMDSAS app? I can't imagine what Southwestern could possibly ask... since TMDSAS already has 2 optional essays.
Click to expand...

I read somewhere that for UTSW there is no additional essay, but you fill in all your pre-req's and grades. I believe your MCAT fee you paid to take the exam covers sending score reports. so no additional fee.
 
bozz said:
I take it you simply click Send scores to TMDSAS on AAMC's MCAT THX?
No payment nothing!? Has it gone through lol!? and how do you know?


Ahhh and UT Southwestern's Secondary page is down... is it a separate process from the regular TMDSAS app? I can't imagine what Southwestern could possibly ask... since TMDSAS already has 2 optional essays.
Click to expand...

You can check your THX history. Check it tomorrow or the next day to make sure it went through.
 
A question-

on the chornological section- should I list the 3 months I was in physical therapy from a back injury during a car accident???
 
If you think the rehab was significant then you should put it down. I put down my knee surgery and rehab since that was all I was able to do at the time.
 
rowerlauren said:
If you think the rehab was significant then you should put it down. I put down my knee surgery and rehab since that was all I was able to do at the time.
Click to expand...

I think I might- that semester I got a 2.8gpa every other semester I have been over 3.5 (most 3.75-4.00) so I think it significantly hurt my grades that I didn't have time/physical ability to totally focus on school
 
I have a Quick question about the Section 10: Special Experiences... I understand that is optional but do they expect that applicant fill this section..
 
virya said:
I have a Quick question about the Section 10: Special Experiences... I understand that is optional but do they expect that applicant fill this section..
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Budge Mabry, director of TMDSAS told our school to only put something down if you have something significant to say. If you don't, don't feel bad or like you're leaving something out.
 
Chocolate Bear said:
Budge Mabry, director of TMDSAS told our school to only put something down if you have something significant to say. If you don't, don't feel bad or like you're leaving something out.
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Um, where do you go to school?

But yeah, like CB here, Mr. Mabry told my fellow pre-med/dent/vet buddies and I basically the same thing: use it if you've got something useful to say.

My take on it, and what seems to be the running advice here on SDN, is that by not doing those things, you're passing up an opportunity to include something that just might differentiate you from TMDSAS PIN 10682 (hello if that's yours! 😛).
 
exi said:
Um, where do you go to school?

But yeah, like CB here, Mr. Mabry told my fellow pre-med/dent/vet buddies and I basically the same thing: use it if you've got something useful to say.

My take on it, and what seems to be the running advice here on SDN, is that by not doing those things, you're passing up an opportunity to include something that just might differentiate you from TMDSAS PIN 10682 (hello if that's yours! 😛).
Click to expand...

Doesn't he go to all of the big/medium TX schools each year?
 
TheElement said:
Hmm does anyone know what the cheapest way to get the passport sized photos that are required?
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Along the same lines, I took wallet-size photos, which are 2.5-in x 3.5-in, and I'm wondering, do I have to cut them down to 2"x3"? I know the TMDSAS website only stipulates a size approximately 2"x3" (and recommends passport sizes), but it seems kinda tedious to cut them down.
 
Ahh the young whipper snappers are enjoying their application process. Bring back fond memories...

Wait, no it doesn't!

Enjoy! 😛
 
soundesign said:
Along the same lines, I took wallet-size photos, which are 2.5-in x 3.5-in, and I'm wondering, do I have to cut them down to 2"x3"? I know the TMDSAS website only stipulates a size approximately 2"x3" (and recommends passport sizes), but it seems kinda tedious to cut them down.
Click to expand...

still hoping someone else has advice on this!
 
futuredrcrawfor said:
still hoping someone else has advice on this!
Click to expand...

All I did was have a family member take some pics of me with a shirt and jacket against a neutral-color wall, do a little Photoshop / Picasa cleanup to make myself feel a little better, run them to CVS, and print them off.

I had a couple of sets, the largest of which was like 2.5x2 or something. The TMDSAS seems to have accepted that, so I guess a little larger wouldn't be that bad, either.
 
So UT Southwestern has no secondary this year...?
 
bozz said:
So UT Southwestern has no secondary this year...?
Click to expand...

Everyone says that the UTSW secondary is basically just a little-bitty checklist, so even if we do have one, it'll take all of a few minutes, apparently.

Having never seen it, I don't know if that's true.
 
exi said:
All I did was have a family member take some pics of me with a shirt and jacket against a neutral-color wall, do a little Photoshop / Picasa cleanup to make myself feel a little better, run them to CVS, and print them off.

I had a couple of sets, the largest of which was like 2.5x2 or something. The TMDSAS seems to have accepted that, so I guess a little larger wouldn't be that bad, either.
Click to expand...


Is business casual okay? I'm abroad and don't have a button-up collared shirt with me. Also, thanks for the Photoshop idea! (Can't really find any clean walls here.)
 
whirlwind10 said:
Is business casual okay? I'm abroad and don't have a button-up collared shirt with me. Also, thanks for the Photoshop idea! (Can't really find any clean walls here.)
Click to expand...

Use your judgement. Does it look nice/professional? They don't give you a prescription of what to wear. Ideally you'd dress as you would to an interview. If you can't do that, then try to analyze the pros and cons of submitting ___ days earlier (now) vs. looking ____ more professional (later).
 
futuredrcrawfor said:
still hoping someone else has advice on this!
Click to expand...

I went to a regular photo shop and asked for passport sized photos. They turned out fine and might be have been a little larger than 2 by 3 and TMDSAS was fine with it. 😀 No worries.
 
whirlwind10 said:
Is business casual okay? I'm abroad and don't have a button-up collared shirt with me. Also, thanks for the Photoshop idea! (Can't really find any clean walls here.)
Click to expand...

They just need to see you! I doubt that they are analyzing your clothing, etc. 🙂
 
I used the Kodak machine today at Wal mart and they had a passport size photo maker!
You scanned in your picture then cropped it to be your face and a tad bit of background.

So all my stuff is submitted and I sent in fee/photos/certification via certified mail today!
 
Hey- so did anyone else you interfolio to send it LOR?

I sent mine in electronically to them on Friday and they haven't posted that they received them yet...
 
exi said:
Everyone says that the UTSW secondary is basically just a little-bitty checklist, so even if we do have one, it'll take all of a few minutes, apparently.

Having never seen it, I don't know if that's true.
Click to expand...

Last year, you had to put all the science classes that you are using to meet the requirement in the form and it had this essay:

In the text box provided below, describe the setting in which you envision conducting your medical career. Also include how and why you think this setting would help fulfill your interests related to the practice of medicine. 500 words, be concise
Click to expand...
 
No I have not, but a lot of my friends have used it with no problems. It might just take a little while before they put it in the system that those letters have been received.

futuredrcrawfor said:
Hey- so did anyone else you interfolio to send it LOR?

I sent mine in electronically to them on Friday and they haven't posted that they received them yet...
Click to expand...
 
Do you think it's worth my time, as an OOS, to apply TMDSAS? I've already applied AMCAS but my #s are pretty low but I'm looking to apply as broadly as possible. How similar are the two applications? Has anyone filled out both TMDSAS and AMCAS? How long do you think it'd take for me to complete it? Probably would have to order second set of transcripts and all too...?
 
dwc929 said:
Do you think it's worth my time, as an OOS, to apply TMDSAS? I've already applied AMCAS but my #s are pretty low but I'm looking to apply as broadly as possible. How similar are the two applications? Has anyone filled out both TMDSAS and AMCAS? How long do you think it'd take for me to complete it? Probably would have to order second set of transcripts and all too...?
Click to expand...

In order:

1. No. See below.

2. Having only had a cursory glance at the AMCAS, I'm not entirely sure, but I'd imagine they're pretty similar.

3. Yes, quite a few people. TheRealMD will be chiming in, I'm sure.

4. Not long. Assuming you've got everything handy from your AMCAS app, you could probably do it in a day or two, excluding TMDSAS processing for fees/letters/etc.

5. Probably, yeah. TMDSAS will accept Interfolio for LoRs, but the transcripts, yep, you'd have to request all that over again. And get extra pics, too.

Personally, I don't think it's really worth your while. Texas state law specifies that 90% of state school acceptances be given to Texas residents, so right off the bat, you are effectively fighting for one tenth of any given class size (compared to several times that, at the very least, for many other schools).

Oh, and from your MDApps, yeah, your numbers are low-ish (particularly that GPA more than anything, imo). I totally understand the "apply broadly" sentiment; as far as that goes, I think that you would do better to try and apply broadly, excluding Texas.

That, and I would have to run you over with my car if you screwed me out of my spots in the six Texas schools to which I am currently applying.
 
Lol, people keep invoking my name when I'm not even around.. 😛

I'd advise against it. Here's the simple reason. TMDSAS is SO revolting that unless you want to get into UTSW (which I know guarantees in-state tuition), don't bother. TMDSAS is HORRIBLE. HORRIBLE. HORRIBLE. Did I mention it was horrible?

As for your numbers, Texas isn't really one of the states that I'd include in that "broadly" category. Problem is that lots of extremely good applicants ONLY apply to Texas schools, making the competition very high. I expect this to change in a few years where pre-med advisors suggest applying elsewhere, but for now, Texas is sadly not in the cards for you.
 
Hey guys,

I've been posting in the OOS Texas thread, but I'm curious what you all think of my chances at the Texas school... I was raised in Texas, so I have a history there... I've already applied, but I'm more curious which school you think I have the best chance with... I recently have really fallen in love with UTMB... I am really hoping to at least get an interview with them... Thanks for any comments/suggestions!

Also,
Has TMDSAS processed any applications other than the first batch?
 
DrJD said:
Hey guys,

I've been posting in the OOS Texas thread, but I'm curious what you all think of my chances at the Texas school... I was raised in Texas, so I have a history there... I've already applied, but I'm more curious which school you think I have the best chance with... I recently have really fallen in love with UTMB... I am really hoping to at least get an interview with them... Thanks for any comments/suggestions!

Also,
Has TMDSAS processed any applications other than the first batch?
Click to expand...

From the MDapps, it looks like your GPA definately took some big hits. But since your MCAT is pretty impressive, if you can 1) show the extenuating circumstances of which you speak and 2) have the schools consider you a Texas resident, you should at least get some interviews (as long as your PS and the rest of your application looks good).

However, if you can't gain Texas resident status, I wouldn't bet on it. Even with such a stellar MCAT score.

Best of luck :luck:
 
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