What to Do If You Didn’t Get Into a BS/MD Program

Applying to a BS/MD program is a competitive process, and not gaining admission can feel discouraging. However, this setback does not mean the end of your journey to medical school. There are still many pathways to becoming a physician, and your hard work has set you up for success in other ways. Moon Prep counselors sat down on a recent episode of the White Coat Club to discuss the next steps if you don’t get into a BS/MD program. 

Step 1: Don’t Panic

It’s important to take a deep breath and remind yourself that there are multiple ways to achieve your goal of becoming a doctor. The traditional pre-med pathway is a common and well-established route, and you are likely well-prepared for it.

Traditional Pre-Med Pathway

If you are planning to apply to medical school through the traditional route, keep these key steps in mind:

• Plan to apply in your junior year of college.

• Take the MCAT by April at the latest to have your score ready by May.

• The primary application opens in late May, and secondary applications should ideally be submitted by July.

• Continue engaging in extracurricular activities such as clinical experience, volunteering, leadership roles, and other activities that demonstrate your commitment to medicine.

Consider an Early Acceptance Pathway Program

Some undergraduate institutions offer Early Acceptance Pathway programs, which allow students to gain conditional acceptance into a partner medical school. These programs typically require applications in your sophomore year of college. Be sure to research schools that offer these programs and their specific requirements.

Should You Pursue a Master’s Program?

A master’s program might be beneficial in certain situations, but it is not always necessary. Consider pursuing a master’s degree if:

• You have a strong interest in research and want to gain more experience in the field.

• Your undergraduate GPA is lower, and you need to demonstrate your ability to handle a rigorous academic load.

A master’s degree does not necessarily improve your medical school application unless it aligns with your overall academic and career goals. Additionally, these programs can be expensive, so ensure that they provide value beyond just strengthening your med school application.

Special Master’s Programs

Unlike traditional master’s programs, Special Master’s Programs (SMPs) are designed to help students gain conditional acceptance to a partner medical school. Examples include:

• Nova Southeastern University: Master of Science in Foundational and Integrated Medical Sciences.

These programs can be beneficial for students who need additional academic preparation and a direct path to medical school.

Taking a Gap Year Before Medical School

A gap year before applying to medical school can have both advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits:

• Provides time for valuable life experiences.

• Allows for additional research or clinical experience.

• Strengthens your personal brand and application.

• Gives more time to write application essays without the stress of coursework.

• Offers extra time to take prerequisite classes and study for the MCAT.

• Helps in developing maturity and professionalism before entering medical school.

Disadvantages:

• Delays the start of your medical career and income as a physician.

• Some students find it difficult to regain academic momentum after a break.

How Do Admission Officers View a Gap Year?

As long as your gap year is productive, medical school admissions committees generally view it positively. Engaging in activities like shadowing, research, or relevant work experience demonstrates continued dedication to the field.

Final Thoughts

Not getting into a BS/MD program is not the end of your medical journey—it’s just a detour. By considering alternative pathways, maintaining strong academic performance, and continuing to gain relevant experience, you can still achieve your goal of becoming a doctor. Stay focused, stay persistent, and keep moving forward!