Medical school is notoriously difficult to get into, and for good reason. These institutions train healthcare professionals to deal with life-or-death situations every day, and the stakes are high from the beginning. Only about 43% of applicants get that critical acceptance letter — and acceptance rates to the top medical schools are much, much lower.
While excellent doctors can come from medical schools of any ranking, the medical school you get into can significantly impact your career. Students who dream of attending one of the top medical schools in America often look for one with connections to their dream job. Factors like location, tuition, and earned degrees are also major considerations.
National ranking also matters when choosing a medical school, but it’s something potential students sometimes overlook. This article highlights why med school rankings matter when considering how to get into medical school, and which U.S. schools rank at the top.
Why Should Medical School Rankings Matter to Applicants?
How Are Medical Schools Ranked?
Top 20 Ranking Medical Schools
Tips for Getting into a Top-Ranked Medical School
Navigating Your Path to Medical School
Why Should Medical School Rankings Matter to Applicants?
Med school rankings are about more than just prestige. Higher-ranked schools have more diversity in desired specialties and subspecialties. As students explore their options, many find themselves changing their specialty based on newfound interests and experiences.
The medical industry is a highly competitive one, too. Residency programs will sometimes give priority to graduates from high-ranking schools — even though most accredited medical schools provide a strong education. Therefore, medical program rankings may affect the quality of your residency training, which can set the stage for your entire career.
How Are Medical Schools Ranked?
Each year, U.S. News & World Report publishes a list of the best medical schools, divided into two categories: Research and Primary Care.
The outlet provides insight into how they rank the best medical schools in the U.S. based on a set methodology that includes:
- A qualitative assessment broken down by peer and residency directors
- Research activity based on both facility members and institution
- Student selectivity related to MCAT total scores, undergraduate GPAs, and acceptance rates
- Faculty resources
By using these metrics, U.S. News ensures that it publishes an objective, quantifiable list of the best medical schools for applicants to compare.
Top 20 Ranking Medical Schools
When it comes to researching the top medical schools in the U.S., applicants may feel overwhelmed by the choices. This is where lists like those published by U.S. News can be invaluable — especially since they break their lists down even further by specialty. The following is a small sampling of the top five schools in four separate categories — research, primary care, internal medicine, and obstetrics and gynecology.
Best Medical Schools for Research
Baylor College of Medicine | Houston, TX
Baylor College of Medicine is renowned for its research in genetics, biomedical engineering, and cancer. Located in the Texas Medical Center — the largest medical complex in the world — Baylor emphasizes translational research, where discoveries made in labs are quickly applied to patient care. Baylor ranks consistently high in research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Average acceptance rate: 4.06%
Average MCAT score: 518
Average GPA: 3.91
Case Western Reserve University | Cleveland, OH
Case Western’s School of Medicine offers strong research programs in the fields of neuroscience, cardiovascular research, and cancer. The school’s close collaboration with institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals enables students to engage in cutting-edge research across a range of medical disciplines. Case Western’s curriculum emphasizes a blend of basic science and clinical practice, and its research facilities are recognized globally for innovation and scientific contributions, particularly in medical engineering and translational research.
Average acceptance rate: 8.41%
Average MCAT score: 519
Average GPA: 3.78
Emory University | Atlanta, GA
Emory University School of Medicine is home to the Emory Vaccine Center, one of the largest academic vaccine centers in the world. Emory is also a leading partner with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), providing students access to significant public health research. The school consistently ranks in the top 25 for NIH funding and emphasizes research that has a direct impact on improving public health.
Average acceptance rate: 3.4%
Average MCAT score: 515
Average GPA: 3.7
Hofstra University/Northwell Health (Zucker) | Hempstead, NY
The Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell offers a relatively new but rapidly growing research program. Affiliated with Northwell Health, the largest healthcare provider in New York, the school provides students with opportunities in clinical research, health systems science, and healthcare innovation. Research at Zucker is focused on improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery, and its proximity to New York City provides access to diverse patient populations and cutting-edge research institutions.
Average acceptance rate: 7%
Average MCAT score: 516
Average GPA: 3.7
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine | Rochester, MN
The Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine is a top-ranked research institution in fields including regenerative medicine, individualized medicine, and cancer. Students benefit from the Mayo Clinic’s status as a world leader in medical research and patient care, working closely with top researchers and clinicians. The school is dedicated to integrating research into clinical practice and offers abundant opportunities for students to engage in clinical trials, biomedical research, and innovative treatments. Mayo’s research is also bolstered by significant NIH funding and an emphasis on collaboration between research scientists and practicing physicians.
Average acceptance rate: 3.15%
Average MCAT score: 520
Average GPA: 3.94
Best Medical Schools for Primary Care
East Carolina University (Brody) | Greenville , NC
The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University is dedicated to training primary care physicians, with a focus on improving healthcare in rural and underserved areas. Its curriculum emphasizes family medicine, community engagement, and patient-centered care. Brody has gained a reputation for producing graduates who pursue primary care, particularly family and internal medicine, as its mission aligns closely with North Carolina’s focus on providing accessible healthcare.
Average acceptance rate: 7.8%
Average MCAT score: 508
Average GPA: 3.60
Saint Louis University | St. Louis, MO
Saint Louis University School of Medicine is committed to improving health equity and addressing healthcare disparities through primary care. It has a strong reputation for its primary care program, particularly in internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics. The school emphasizes compassionate, patient-focused care, integrating medical ethics and social justice into its curriculum.
Average acceptance rate: 8.5%
Average MCAT score: 511
Average GPA: 3.75
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | Lubbock, TX
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Medicine has a strong primary care focus, with a mission to address the healthcare needs of West Texas and rural communities. The school offers several primary care tracks and emphasizes community-based learning that prepares students for careers in family medicine, internal medicine, and rural healthcare.
Average acceptance rate: 9.8%
Average MCAT score: 506
Average GPA: 3.65
The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth | Fort Worth, TX
The Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM) at the University of North Texas Health Science Center has a well-established primary care program that emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care. TCOM has consistently been ranked among the top schools for primary care, particularly in osteopathic medicine, and focuses on training physicians to serve rural and underserved populations in Texas. The school’s curriculum promotes prevention, wellness, and the osteopathic philosophy of treating the whole patient.
Average acceptance rate: 6.9%
Average MCAT score: 507
Average GPA: 3.60
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences | Little Rock, AK
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine is known for its strong primary care program, especially in family medicine and rural health. UAMS prioritizes training physicians to meet the healthcare needs of Arkansas’ underserved areas and rural communities. Its commitment to primary care is evident through its rural practice program, which encourages students to pursue careers in family medicine and other primary care specialties.
Average acceptance rate: 9.9%
Average MCAT score: 509
Average GPA: 3.70
Best Medical Schools for Internal Medicine
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) | San Francisco, CA
UCSF‘s internal medicine program is renowned for its strong emphasis on public health, clinical practice, and a commitment to healthcare equity. The program provides rigorous training in both primary care and general internal medicine, with a variety of specialized tracks to meet diverse career goals. Residents benefit from UCSF’s extensive network and research funding opportunities.
Average acceptance rate: 2%
Average MCAT score: 517
Average GPA: 3.87
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine | Baltimore, MD
Johns Hopkins’ internal medicine program is known for its innovative research and cutting-edge clinical care. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary training, residents here are exposed to a broad range of clinical settings and specialty areas, preparing them to become leaders in both research and patient care.
Average acceptance rate: 3.9%
Average MCAT score: 521
Average GPA: 3.93
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine | Rochester, MN
Mayo Clinic offers a comprehensive internal medicine residency that emphasizes a blend of clinical expertise and research. With access to Mayo’s world-class medical facilities, residents gain hands-on experience in a variety of complex cases, making it an ideal program for those looking to specialize in internal medicine.
Average acceptance rate: 3.5%
Average MCAT score: 520
Average GPA: 3.92
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI
The University of Michigan‘s internal medicine program is known for its strong emphasis on patient-centered care and clinical research. The program provides ample opportunities for residents to engage in a wide array of subspecialty areas, and it is highly regarded for its collaborative and supportive training environment.
Average acceptance rate: 5%
Average MCAT score: 516
Average GPA: 3.84
Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons | New York, NY
Columbia’s internal medicine residency is distinguished by its rigorous academic curriculum and strong clinical training. Residents are exposed to a diverse patient population and gain extensive experience in various clinical settings, which prepares them well for both clinical practice and research careers.
Average acceptance rate: Approximately 3.5%
Average MCAT score: 522
Average GPA: 3.89
Best Medical Schools for Obstetrics and Gynecology
Harvard Medical School | Boston, MA
Harvard Medical School‘s OB-GYN program is distinguished by its commitment to cutting-edge research, comprehensive training, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from clinical rotations across multiple prestigious hospitals, including Brigham and Women’s Hospital, which is renowned for women’s health.
Average acceptance rate: 3.3%
Average MCAT score: 519
Average GPA: 3.94
Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD
Johns Hopkins offers a top-tier OB-GYN program known for its robust research opportunities and clinical excellence. The program emphasizes surgical training, women’s health, and exposure to complex cases, providing residents with a well-rounded education in obstetrics and gynecology.
Average acceptance rate: 3.9%
Average MCAT score: 521
Average GPA: 3.93
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) | San Francisco, CA
UCSF’s OB-GYN program is highly regarded for its focus on reproductive health, family planning, and research into health disparities. It offers comprehensive training through diverse clinical experiences and access to UCSF’s research facilities, making it ideal for students interested in both clinical practice and research.
Average acceptance rate: Approximately 2%
Average MCAT score: 517
Average GPA: 3.87
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine | Philadelphia, PA
The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania offers a robust OB-GYN program with strengths in maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, and gynecologic oncology. The program is research-intensive and provides opportunities for students to engage in both clinical and basic science research.
Average acceptance rate: About 4.4%
Average MCAT score: 521
Average GPA: 3.92
Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons | New York, NY
Columbia’s OB-GYN program is known for its excellence in surgical training and patient care, particularly in urban healthcare settings. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all areas of obstetrics and gynecology, with opportunities for specialized research and clinical experiences.
Average acceptance rate: Roughly 3.5%
Average MCAT score: 522
Average GPA: 3.89
Tips for Getting into a Top-Ranked Medical School
Preparing to apply to medical school is about more than earning high test scores; it requires crafting a comprehensive application package that showcases your academic achievements, commitment to the medical field, and unique attributes. Follow these tips to enhance your application and increase your chance of acceptance:
Prioritize a high GPA and MCAT score
Medical schools have different thresholds for GPA and MCAT scores, so it’s essential to know the range expected by the programs you’re targeting. Top schools often look for a GPA above 3.7 and MCAT scores around 515 or higher, while other schools may have slightly lower thresholds. Focus on excelling in prerequisite courses, especially in science, and consider retaking any courses for which you received a lower grade. If your MCAT score needs improvement, plan to retake it after a period of committed studying. Consider taking an MCAT prep course to help boost your score.
Participate in diverse extracurricular activities
Medical schools seek well-rounded candidates who are not only academically capable but also dedicated to service and personal growth. Aim to participate in a variety of extracurriculars, including:
- Clinical experiences (such as volunteering in hospitals or shadowing physicians)
- Research opportunities, particularly if you’re interested in research-focused programs
- Community service to show your commitment to helping others
- Leadership roles to demonstrate initiative and responsibility
Involvement in extracurricular activities not only enhances your resume but also helps you explore different facets of the medical field and develop skills essential for medical practice.
Plan for secondary applications
Secondary applications are a significant part of the admissions process, and they can often include numerous essay questions specific to each school. Once your primary application is submitted, you may receive secondary applications quickly, so plan to complete them within two weeks of receipt. Create a calendar with deadlines for each school and allocate time to personalize your responses to reflect the school’s mission and values. Many successful applicants draft responses to common essay questions in advance, so they can tailor these to each application with minimal revision.
Research each school and communicate your fitness for acceptance
Admissions committees want to know why you’re interested in their specific program. Take the time to research each school thoroughly, looking into their mission, specialties, faculty, and unique programs. In your application, explicitly mention aspects of the school that align with your goals and values. Showing that you understand the school’s culture and can see yourself thriving there will make a strong impression and help you stand out.
Prepare for the interview
If you’re invited to interview, this is your chance to shine beyond your written application. Research the interview format — some schools use traditional interviews, while others may use the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format. Practice answering common interview questions and developing concise responses to behavioral and situational prompts. Review your application to be ready to discuss any experiences, motivations, and challenges in detail. Mock interviews can be very helpful; consider enlisting the help of a mentor or advisor, or use resources provided by your pre-med program.
Complete a pre-med certification course
Taking a pre-med certification course can be a valuable addition to your application, especially if you need to strengthen your science foundation or gain relevant skills. These courses cover essential topics in biology, chemistry, and physics, and can also offer a refresher on clinical practices, ethics, and patient communication. Additionally, pre-med certification programs can sometimes include opportunities for clinical exposure or internships, helping you gain practical experience to discuss in your application.
Follow these tips to develop a well-rounded application that not only meets academic expectations but also highlights your dedication, experience, and fitness for the medical field.
Navigating Your Path to Medical School
With so many options available, how can you pinpoint the best medical school that aligns perfectly with your goals and aspirations? Advanced eClinical Training’s (ACT) medical school admissions consulting program is here to guide you on your unique journey to medical school, offering you personalized assistance from an experienced M.D. mentor who knows first-hand the obstacles and rewards associated with making this life-changing decision.
Our comprehensive one-on-one mentorship program is designed to help you make informed, strategic choices that will set the foundation for your future medical career. This begins with selecting the right schools to apply to, understanding why you’re an appropriate fit, and navigating specific application processes to help you apply with confidence.
All of our mentors are highly accomplished M.D.s with extensive expertise in:
- Prerequisite coursework and planning
- Medical school applications
- Resume building
- Interview preparation
- Rejection analysis and feedback
- Clinical experience guidance
- MCAT preparation
- Strategic timeline planning
- Crafting compelling personal statements
When you join our program, you are empowered to choose a mentorship plan that is tailored to your individual needs and budget, making our service not only highly personalized but also incredibly affordable. This ensures you receive the right support exactly when you need it, without straining your resources. Beyond this, you’ll gain access to a vast array of resources that can provide answers to your burning questions, along with dedicated one-on-one planning sessions with your M.D. mentor. Our pre-med program conducts all live mentor sessions virtually, providing the flexibility you need.
FAQs
What are the top medical schools in the U.S.?
Top medical schools include Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine. Rankings can vary by specialty and change annually based on research funding, faculty resources, and clinical training opportunities.
How hard is it to get into medical school?
Medical school is very competitive, with acceptance rates averaging around 5–7% for top programs. Admissions require high GPAs (typically 3.7 and above), strong MCAT scores (above 510), meaningful clinical and research experience, and compelling personal statements.
Are med school rankings important?
Yes, rankings can matter, especially for competitive residencies and specialties, as they often reflect the school’s research opportunities, faculty, and hospital affiliations. However, the “best” school depends on individual goals, and many successful doctors come from lesser-known programs.
How are medical schools ranked?
Schools are ranked based on factors such as research activity, primary care emphasis, faculty credentials, student selectivity, and peer assessments. U.S. News & World Report uses these metrics to evaluate and rank medical schools across different specialties and overall categories.
Does it matter where I go to medical school?
While your school can impact certain aspects like residency placement or networking, success in medicine largely depends on individual performance. Some specialties and regions may favor graduates from highly-ranked schools, but all accredited programs provide the necessary training to become a physician.
What can I do to improve my chances of getting into a top medical school?
Focus on achieving a high GPA and MCAT score, participate in clinical and research experiences, complete secondary applications thoughtfully, research each program to show a strong fit, and thoroughly prepare for interviews. Consider additional certifications or coursework to further strengthen your application.
Advanced eClinical Training offers an extensive range of nationally accredited medical certification courses, 100% online. Each of our courses is designed to help students sharpen their practical medical skills, ensuring they are fully prepared to showcase their abilities during the medical school application process.
At ACT, we’re not just about getting you into medical school; we’re committed to setting you up for success in your medical career. Enroll now to discover the transformative power of a customized pre-medical mentorship on your career trajectory.
