5 Strategies to Make the Most of Your MCAT Studying Efforts
These tips will help you be as prepared as possible for the biggest test you'll take as a premed.
Anubodh “Sunny” Varshney
Updated June 27, 2022 by Anubodh “Sunny” Varshney
For Applicants
Explore programs, learn from students, and stay on track through the application cycle.
1. Choose a Path
Select your profession and focus on the stage of the process that matters most right now.
2. Study the Process
Use guides and articles to prepare for applications, secondaries, interviews, and decisions.
3. Compare and Discuss
Pair structured school research with perspective from applicants, students, and advisors.
4. Ask an Advisor
Ask a confidential question and receive guidance from SDN verified expert advisors. Always human, always free.
5. Work with a Coach
Work one-on-one with a professional pre-health coach when you need structured application support.
20 Questions: Andrew Read-Fuller, DDS, MS, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Andrew Read-Fuller shares his thoughts on the field of dentistry and offers some advice for students.
Juliet Farmer
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If I Had a Million Dollars (But I Don’t)
How to make the most of your limited budget while in medical school.
Megan Riddle
Updated May 5, 2026 by Megan Riddle
Six Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer
Make the most of your summer to round out your medical school applications.
AAMC Staff
Updated June 27, 2022 by AAMC Staff
Practical Advice for the Medical School Applicant
Pay attention to details and avoid missteps to make your application stand out.
Brian Walcott
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This is No Lake Wobegon: When Medical School Means You’re No Longer Above Average
Medical school may mean you're no longer at the top of your class, but that doesn't mean you won't be successful.
Megan Riddle
Updated June 27, 2022 by Megan Riddle
Navigating Your Future: A Roadmap to Specialty Exploration
Starting early and allowing yourself time to explore specialties during your first three years of school will put you in strong position to apply and match into the field that best suits you.
Megan Riddle
Updated June 27, 2022 by Megan Riddle
Letters of Recommendation for Medical School: Everything You Need to Know
Letters of recommendation can be one of the most important parts of an application. Here we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about LORs.
Evan Shih
Updated June 27, 2022 by Evan Shih
The Dual Path: What to consider when considering an MD-PhD
Answers to frequently asked questions about MD-PhD programs for those considering pursuing a dual degree.
Megan Riddle
Updated June 27, 2022 by Megan Riddle
Getting Into Medical School and Residency: Wish I Knew It Before I Blew It
Drawing on the wisdom of those who have gone before you can help you avoid career-hindering mistakes.
Michelle Finkel
Updated June 27, 2022 by Michelle Finkel
You're Not Alone: Mental Health Issues During Medical School
Confidential help is available for the upwards of 1 in 4 medical students who meet the criteria for depression.
Megan Riddle
Updated June 27, 2022 by Megan Riddle
20 Questions: Marc F. Stern, MD, MPH, FACP, Correctional Health Care
Marc F. Stern shares his thoughts on the field of correctional health care and offers some advice for students
Juliet Farmer
Updated June 27, 2022 by Juliet Farmer
9 Things to Do Before Applying to Medical School
The AAMC offers advice to give you a head start on the medical school application process.
AAMC Staff
Updated June 27, 2022 by AAMC Staff
Three Tips to be an All Star First Year Medical Student
Learning in medical school is different than learning in undergrad. Here are some tips to help you make the transition.
Sean Alemi, MD
Updated June 27, 2022 by Sean Alemi, MD
To Practice Pure or Not to Practice Pure, That is the Question
If Hamlet were a physician...
John F. Hunt, MD
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How to Not Get Into Medical School
Here are six things that will prevent you from getting into medical school.
Benjamin Wright
Updated June 27, 2022 by Benjamin Wright
Six Things to Remember While Parenting in Medical School
Some advice to help you be both a professional student and the best parent you can be.
Jasmine Johnson
Updated August 23, 2022 by Jasmine Johnson
What You Should Know Before Your First Interview
Knowing some typical interview formats and the expectations of your interviewer can help put your mind at ease while pursuing acceptance into dental school.
Brian A. Brodine
Updated June 27, 2022 by Brian A. Brodine
20 Questions: Ross D. Zafonte, DO, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Ross D. Zafonte shares his thoughts on the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation and offers some advice for students.
Juliet Farmer
Updated June 27, 2022 by Juliet Farmer
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