The path to a career in medicine in the United States is well defined. Aspiring physicians must earn an undergraduate degree, complete four years of medical school, participate in a minimum of three years of graduate medical training, and pass three national examinations for licensure. （71）
Preparation for one of the world's most highly respected careers often starts in high school by taking courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. Preparation continues during college, with particular attention to the courses needed for admission to medical school. Although the specific number of credits required for admission to medical school varies, the minimum college course requirements include one year of biology, two years of chemistry, and one year of physics, all with adequate laboratory experiences. （72） Candidates for admission to medical schools are also expected to have a solid background in English, the humanities, and the social sciences.
Typically, the process of applying to medical school begins during the junior year of undergraduate study. One of the first steps is to take the Medical College Admission Test （MCAT） in the spring of the junior year. （73）
The American Medical College Application Service （AMCAS） facilitates applying to medical school by centralizing the submission of information and supporting materials. Students submit one set of application materials and one official transcript to AMCAS, which in turn distributes the information to participating institutions as designated by the applicant. （74）
Admission committees, composed of faculty members from the basic and clinical sciences departments, screen and prioritize the applications. Academic ability and personal qualities are used to discern applicants’ qualifications for medical school. Academic ability is measured in terms of grades on undergraduate courses （with emphasis on the required science courses） and MCAT scores. （75） Most admission committees look for well-rounded individuals and strive to admit a diversified class.
A. Loans, primarily sponsored by the federal government, are the major source of financial aid for medical school.
B. Medical schools may require or strongly recommend taking mathematics and computer science courses in college, though only a small number demand a specific sequence of mathematics courses.
C. An undergraduate major in the sciences is not a mandatory requirement for admission to medical school.
D. Becoming a physician also demands a desire to work with people; intellectual, emotional, and physical stamina; and an ability to think critically to solve complex problems.
E. Deadlines for receiving applications are determined by the individual medical schools.
F. The test is designed to measure knowledge in the biological and physical sciences, the ability to read and interpret information, and communication skills.
