Frequently Asked Questions

The following series of questions and answers is an attempt to review some of the more frequent queries by applicants to the West Virginia University School of Medicine. This information is not all-inclusive but is intended to supplement information, which the student may obtain from his or her advisor regarding the admissions process. Finally, the answers are the "usual" ones and may not be entirely applicable to an individual circumstance or to another school of medicine.

	What are the admission requirements for the School of Medicine?
	Which undergraduate majors does the Committee on Admissions prefer?
	What courses are recommended for preparation for medical school?
	Will the Committee on Admissions pay particular attention to my performance in certain courses?
	My transcript shows several withdrawals from courses. How will the Committee on Admissions view this?
	Should I repeat courses in which I did not do well, even though I passed them?
	Should I apply as a third-year applicant?
	If I apply as a third-year applicant, will it help or hinder my chances next year?
	Even though rejected several times, shouldn't I continue to reapply to prove my motivation?
	Who makes up the Committee on Admissions?
	What is the minimum cumulative grade point average and science average for getting into medical school?
	What does the Committee consider other than grades?
	When should I take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)?
	How does the Committee use the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores?
	Should I study for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)?
	Will I be interviewed as part of the application procedure?
	What is the basic interview procedure?
	When does the Medical School begin interviews?
	What is the Early Decision Program?
	Whom should I approach about recommendations?
	What about recommendations from prominent persons?
	Does a non-resident student attending West Virginia University or one of the in- state schools have a chance of being accepted by the Medical School?
	I am not a resident of West Virginia. If I meet the requirements for residency, will my chances for acceptance increase?
	After I complete my biology major, would my chances for admission improve if I added another major, minor, or another undergraduate degree?
	Do graduate students or holders of advanced degrees receive priority consideration by the Committee on Admissions?
	Do sons and daughters of physicians have a better chance of admissions than other applicants?
	Does the Committee on Admissions place great emphasis on extra-curricular activities?
	Is working in some health care activity considered to be important preparation for medical school by the Committee on Admissions?
	How is the alternate list made up?
	Does a rejection mean that I am totally incapable of passing the work in medical school?
	Where can I learn about the admission requirements of other medical schools?
	Do I need a physical health examination before starting medical school?

Other Important Resources to Contact Us:

Interview Scheduling (letters of reference, file update, etc.)
(304) 293-1439 (local)
1-800-543-5650 (long-distance)

Office of Student Services
(304) 293-2408 (local)
1-800-543-5650 (long-distance)

Admissions and Records
(304) 293-3521

Financial Aid Officer
(304) 293-3706

E-Mail Address For General Information:
medadmissions@hsc.wvu.edu

AMCAS/MCAT Applications
www.aamc.org

E-Mail Address For Specific Admissions Information:
bdlugos@hsc.wvu.edu