Becoming a doctor can be one of the most rewarding and well-paying career paths in the U.S. But medical schools have a reputation for being hard to get into, with average acceptance rates ranging from just 2% to 20% of applicants. To help you choose the right school for you, we’ve researched the best degree programs in the medical field and made this list of the easiest medical schools to get into.
- University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences
- University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine
- University of Massachusetts
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- East Carolina University
- University of Nevada – Reno
- The University of South Dakota
- Mercer University School of Medicine
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-Shreveport
- Augusta University
- University of Nebraska Medical Center
- The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
- Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center
- University of Oklahoma
- Medical University of South Carolina College
- University of Arizona
- University of Virginia School of Medicine
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine
- Indiana University School of Medicine
- Central Michigan University
- University of Texas McGovern Medical School
- The University of New Mexico
- University at Buffalo
Why This Matters
Medical professionals are in demand, and over the next decade, the U.S. is projected to have a shortfall of doctors. But medical schools can’t cut corners, and they have to keep class sizes small in order to ensure that everyone gets the training they need.
As a result, earning a medical degree requires serious commitment. Students typically need to have a bachelor’s degree, a high GPA, and a high score on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). If you don’t meet all of these criteria, then you may think that a medical career is out of the question. Fortunately, that’s not the case, and you may be able to attend one of these accredited medical schools that are easier to get into.
Our Ranking Criteria
To put together this list, we researched nearly 50 medical schools throughout the U.S. to ensure that we covered a range of programs and locations. We used data available on each school’s website to narrow down the list based on enrollment, GPA requirements, average MCAT scores, and other factors to determine these top picks.
The 24 Easiest Medical Schools to Get Into
1. University of North Dakota School of Medicine
The School of Medicine & Health Sciences at UND is located in Grand Forks, ND, and offers a significant tuition break for North Dakota and Minnesota residents. They also provide an Indians into Medicine (INMED) program specifically for Native American students. The four-year M.D. program accepts 78 applicants each year, with two years on the Grand Forks campus and two years at clinics elsewhere in the state.
- Location: Grand Forks, ND
- Intelligent Score: 99.32
- Tuition: $36,074 (North Dakota resident), $39,509 (Minnesota resident), $65,312 (non-resident) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 283
- Average MCAT Score: 507
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
2. University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine
The School of Medicine at UMKC offers a range of degree programs, including a master of health professions education, a master of science in bioinformatics, and a doctor of medicine — as well as a combined B.A./M.D. degree. The combined program takes six years to complete and is open to eligible high school graduates. The school is available to out-of-state students, but applicants from Missouri and nearby states get priority. Students learn in groups of 10-12 and practice on realistic body simulators.
- Location: Kansas City, MO
- Intelligent Score: 99.32
- Tuition: $35,280 (in-state), $68,348 (out-of-state) per year
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 227
- Average MCAT Score: 500
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
3. University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
UMass Chan in Worcester, MA, is known for its M.D. program, research center, and residency opportunities. This program keeps classes small, with around 162 students per year, and emphasizes diversity and inclusion. The population-based urban and rural community health (PURCH) track takes 25 new students each year and moves between the Worcester and Springfield campuses.
- Location: Worcester, MA
- Intelligent Score: 98.96
- Tuition: $39,380 (in-state), $67,718 (out-of-state) per year
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Student Enrollment: 686
- Average MCAT Score: 514
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: There is no minimum GPA requirement, but grades are a factor in the admissions process, and matriculants have an average GPA of 3.7
4. University of Mississippi Medical Center — School of Medicine
The School of Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center is a four-year program in Jackson, MS that leads to a doctor of medicine degree. Students participate in research, training, and clinical practice, focusing on caring for Mississippi’s diverse residents and underserved populations. This is the only medical center of its kind in Mississippi, and it aims to create robust professional networks and career opportunities.
- Location: Jackson, MS
- Intelligent Score: 98.95
- Tuition: $36,273 for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 407
- Average MCAT Score: 504
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
5. East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine
The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University is located in Greenville, NC. It offers pathways to obtain a Ph.D., M.D., dual degree M.D./MBA, and a master’s degree in public health. The M.D. program also provides four distinction track options, in which students can choose an area of independent study and complete a capstone project. Pre-med students may consider the school’s Summer Program for Future Doctors.
- Location: Greenville, NC
- Intelligent Score: 98.65
- Tuition: $22,252 for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 556
- Average MCAT Score: 505
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.2 in prerequisite science courses
6. University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
The School of Medicine at UNR offers degree programs in speech pathology, physician assistant studies, and more. Students can choose from an M.D. program or combined degrees through the School of Community Health Sciences. The medical school has a 12% acceptance rate and maintains small class sizes with only 70 students per class. Students participate in a standardized patient program and a clinical simulation lab.
- Location: Reno, NV
- Intelligent Score: 97.39
- Tuition: $31,758 (in-state), $59,008 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 324
- Average MCAT Score: 509
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 2.8
7. The University of South Dakota
The Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota offers M.D. programs and related biomedical degrees. One unique offering is the Frontier and Rural Medicine (FARM) program, which places students on a nine-month track at local clinics to learn about rural medicine. Non-residents must have a close connection with the state, such as having family members in the state, graduating from a high school or college in the state, or being part of a local federally-recognized tribe.
- Location: Vermillion, SD
- Intelligent Score: 96.79
- Tuition: $32,105 (in-state), $76,935 (out-of-state) per year
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 269
- Average MCAT Score: 509
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.1
8. Mercer University School of Medicine
The Mercer University School of Medicine offers degree programs at multiple locations in Georgia, including four-year M.D. programs in Macon and Savannah. Students can also apply to a doctoral program in rural health sciences, a master’s degree in family therapy, and related medical programs. Although MUSM is easier to get into than many other medical schools, the M.D. program is only open to residents of Georgia.
- Location: Macon, GA
- Intelligent Score: 95.84
- Tuition: $43,856 for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 604
- Average MCAT Score: 504
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: MCAT percentile rank times cumulative undergraduate BCPM GPA must be greater than 93
9. Louisiana State University Health Shreveport
LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is the only public, allopathic medical school in the northern part of the state and has a class size of 150 students. LSUHS boasts a 99% five-year match rate. Students will enjoy classes in the $84 million, 105,000 square-foot Center for Medical Education — this facility opens in January 2024, offering state-of-the-art simulation and small group huddle spaces for peer-to-peer learning, all as part of a new, modernized curriculum. Students will have easy access to adjacent wellness spaces and programs. Other degree options include a research distinction track and a MD/Ph.D. Applicants must take part in a virtual interview in order to be considered.
- Location: Shreveport, LA
- Intelligent Score: 95.65
- Tuition: $14,276 (in-state), $30,187 (out-of-state) per semester
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 606
- Average MCAT Score: 507
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: There are no stated minimum GPA requirements, but grades are a factor in the admissions process, and matriculants have an average GPA of 3.6 to 3.7
10. Augusta University — Medical College of Georgia
The Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University specializes in dual degrees so that students can combine their M.D. with a master of business administration (MBA) or a master of public health (MPH). The combined MBA program teaches both clinical and management skills so students are prepared to navigate the U.S. healthcare system. The M.D./MPH program focuses on community service and public health. The M.D. program takes four years, while the combined program takes five.
- Location: Augusta, GA
- Intelligent Score: 90.61
- Tuition: $14,463 (in-state), $28,925 (out-of-state) per semester
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 930
- Average MCAT Score: 512
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
11. University of Nebraska Medical Center
The M.D. program at UNMC focuses on improving clinical skills through small-group lessons and patient simulations. UNMC doesn’t have a minimum threshold for GPA or MCAT scores, but the school prioritizes Nebraska residents and those who stand out during the interview process. Students can choose from enhanced medical education tracks such as comprehensive HIV medication and underserved health care.
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Intelligent Score: 90.10
- Tuition: $18,300 (in-state), $24,840 (out-of-state) per semester
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 514
- Average MCAT Score: 515
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: There is no minimum GPA requirement, but grades are a factor in the admissions process, and matriculants have an average GPA of 3.75
12. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
UAMS has been around since 1879 and offers M.D./Ph.D., M.D./MPH, and rural practice programs. All students are placed in one of several academic houses, providing educational, social, and professional support throughout their degree program. It’s also worth noting that this school offers many financial aid opportunities to help you pay for your medical degree, including scholarships, grants, and emergency loans.
- Location: Little Rock, AK
- Intelligent Score: 89.36
- Tuition: $16,505 (in-state), $32,590 (out-of-state) per semester
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 698
- Average MCAT Score: 509
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 2.7
13. Louisiana State University Health New Orleans — School of Medicine
The School of Medicine at LSU Health New Orleans offers several programs, including an M.D./MPH dual degree program, an integrated occupational medical service (OMS) program, and more. There’s also a primary care program with three areas of focus – urban experience, rural health, and rural scholars – and a summer research internship program. LSU accepts around 20% of applicants, with steep tuition discounts for in-state residents.
- Location: New Orleans, LA
- Intelligent Score: 89.25
- Tuition: $16,468 (in-state), $30,557 (out-of-state) per semester
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 800
- Average MCAT Score: 509
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: There is no minimum GPA requirement, but grades are a factor in the admissions process, and matriculants have an average GPA of 3.73
14. University of Tennessee Health Science Center — College of Medicine
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a wide variety of medical degree programs in areas ranging from nursing science to health outcomes and policy research. The application process can be completed entirely online, and there’s no application fee. This program is open to international students, but proof of English language proficiency and verified educational records may be required.
- Location: Memphis, TN
- Intelligent Score: 88.68
- Tuition: $35,084 (in-state), $52,626 (out-of-state) per year
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 693
- Average MCAT Score: 500 – 510
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: There is no minimum GPA requirement, but grades are a factor in the admissions process, and matriculants have an average GPA of 3.89
15. The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine
The College of Medicine at the University of Oklahoma offers three degree options: an M.D., a dual degree (M.D./Ph.D.), and the physician associate program. Students can choose from two tracks offered at two different campuses: the Oklahoma City campus has 140 students per class and access to a 200-acre medical center, while the Tusla track has smaller classes (25-30 students) and a focus on community health.
- Location: Oklahoma City, OK
- Intelligent Score: 87.62
- Tuition: $31,893 (in-state), $67,189 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 658
- Average MCAT Score: 508
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
16. Medical University of South Carolina College of Medicine
In addition to its standard M.D. program, the Medical University of South Carolina offers an M.D./Ph.D. program and an MPH program. The M.D./Ph.D. program, funded by the National Institutes of Health, is designed to develop future leaders in academic medicine and offers particularly generous financial aid opportunities. If you decide to enter the MPH program, you’ll have three concentrations to choose from — biostatistics, epidemiology, or health behavior and health promotion (a generalist option is also available).
- Location: Charleston, SC
- Intelligent Score: 86.35
- Tuition: $37,500 (in-state), $66,849 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 771
- Average MCAT Score: 511
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
17. University of Arizona College of Medicine — Tucson
The University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson has several unique programs, including the pre-medical admissions pathway (P-MAP), which lasts for 13 months, and a continuing medical education program. Other degree options include distinction tracks such as rural health, global health, and bilingual medical Spanish. Students can also apply for international study abroad programs and a 10-week internship in health care along the U.S.–Mexico border.
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Intelligent Score: 85.12
- Tuition: $39,456 (in-state), $57,628 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 847
- Average MCAT Score: 509
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
18. University of Virginia School of Medicine
The University of Virginia School of Medicine is one of the most historical institutions in the healthcare industry — founded in 1819, this was just the tenth medical school to open in the United States, and its first professor was Dr. Robley Dunglison, the “Father of American Physiology.” This medical school is an excellent choice for students interested in a research career, as the school is currently tied for the #30 spot in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Medical Schools (Research) rankings and offers world-class laboratory facilities.
- Location: Charlottesville, VA
- Intelligent Score: 84.87
- Tuition: $52,328 (in-state), $64,484 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 926
- Average MCAT Score: 518
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: There is no minimum GPA requirement, but grades are a factor in the admissions process, and matriculants have an average GPA of 3.87
19. University of Kentucky College of Medicine
From anesthesiology to vascular surgery, the University of Kentucky College of Medicine offers training opportunities for various M.D. specialties. Also, their Center of Excellence in Rural Health makes the school an ideal option for anyone who plans to practice in small communities. They also offer several biomedical degree programs, including an M.S. in Nutritional Sciences, an M.S. in Toxicology, a Ph.D. in Radiation and Radiological Sciences, and a Ph.D. in Integrated Biomedical Sciences.
- Location: Lexington, KY
- Intelligent Score: 79.56
- Tuition: $41,662 (in-state), $76,066 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 818
- Average MCAT Score: 506
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
20. Indiana University School of Medicine
Regarding student enrollment, the Indiana University School of Medicine is the largest medical school in the United States. In 2020, their M.D. program implemented a new curriculum that is especially effective at preparing students for the latest challenges in healthcare. You’ll learn about the most cutting-edge innovations in medical science, help treat diverse patient populations, and develop your communication and collaboration skills by training alongside students in other fields of medicine.
- Location: Indianapolis, IN
- Intelligent Score: 78.79
- Tuition: $35,000 (in-state), $60,000 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 1,600
- Average MCAT Score: 512
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: While there is no GPA requirement for standard admissions, applicants with a GPA of at least 3.7 may be eligible for the Early Decision Program
21. Central Michigan University College of Medicine
The College of Medicine at Central Michigan University is located in Mount Pleasant, MI, with access to a 10,000-square-foot simulation center. Students can choose from residency programs ranging from family medicine to general surgery, and fellowships are available for emergency medical services and psychiatry. Around 80% of students are from Michigan, but out-of-state residents are welcome to apply.
- Location: Mount Pleasant, MI
- Intelligent Score: 78.33
- Tuition: $43,952 (in-state), $64,062 (out-of-state) per year
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 425
- Average MCAT Score: 509
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: While there is no GPA requirement for standard admissions, applicants with a GPA of at least 3.5 may be eligible for the Early Decision Program
22. University of Texas McGovern Medical School
With over 1,000 students, the University of Texas McGovern Medical School is the ninth-largest medical school in the country. If you’re interested in earning multiple graduate degrees, you can reduce the amount of time it takes to reach this goal with one of their five dual degree programs: M.D./Ph.D., M.D./Master of Public Health, M.D./Master of Business Administration, M.D./M.S. in Bioinformatics, and M.D./Master of Bioethics.
- Location: Houston, TX
- Intelligent Score: 77.29
- Tuition: $27,207 (in-state), $33,811 (out-of-state) for first-year medical students
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Student Enrollment: 1,081
- Average MCAT Score: 512
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
23. The University of New Mexico School of Medicine
The School of Medicine at UNM in Albuquerque offers a four-year M.D. curriculum, a physician assistant program, and a combined B.A./M.D. degree. Students can participate in biomedical research projects or gain experience through placements in over 141 communities. The medical school has an acceptance rate of 8% and ranks among the top five most diverse medical schools in the U.S.
- Location: Albuquerque, NM
- Intelligent Score: 76.52
- Tuition: $15,328 (in-state), $44,023 (out-of-state) per year
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Student Enrollment: 418
- Average MCAT Score: 507
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: 3.0
24. University at Buffalo Jacob School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
The Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB allows students to participate in several hands-on training opportunities, including a student-run medical clinic and the Buffalo General Medical Center. Also, their science and technology entry program (STEP) makes it easier for economically disadvantaged students to get accepted into the program.
- Location: Buffalo, NY
- Intelligent Score: 75.99
- Tuition: $44,980 (in-state), $67,110 (out-of-state) per year
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Student Enrollment: 645
- Average MCAT Score: 512
- Undergrad GPA Requirement: There is no minimum GPA requirement, but grades are a factor in the admissions process, and matriculants have an average GPA of 3.70
What Are the Benefits of Attending Medical School?
There are plenty of reasons to consider medical school, including high earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, physicians and surgeons earn an average wage of $229,300 per year. As the world’s population ages, medical professionals will continue to be in demand, and a medical degree can lead to a well-paying, long-term career in many parts of the world.
Additionally, medical professionals don’t have to practice in a hospital or clinic. Some medical students choose to become educators or researchers, or work to improve the U.S. healthcare system with a master of public health degree. For many students, a medical degree offers multiple pathways to a stable and rewarding career.
What Are the Disadvantages of Attending Medical School?
While medical school can be a good choice to pursue a career in medicine, it’s not right for everyone. Even schools that are easy to get into still require a high level of commitment from their students. In addition to four or more years of study, earning an M.D. requires a medical residency that may involve relocating to a hospital or clinic far from home.
Also, medical school isn’t cheap, even for in-state residents. A career in healthcare can pay well, but not until well after graduation, and you may not have time to hold down a side job while you finish your degree. First-year residents earn about $61,000 on average – much less than a doctor’s salary.
These factors can put a lot of strain on medical students and their families, especially if they have student loans. The average student loan debt for medical school is more than $200,000, so it’s important to consider the cost and time commitment before deciding whether medical school is right for you.
Who Should Attend Medical School?
Medical school isn’t just for those who want to become a doctor. Some of these programs can prepare you to work behind the scenes in the healthcare industry instead of in a hospital or clinic. For example, you might choose to attend medical school in order to:
- Work with disadvantaged communities in rural clinics
- Manage a healthcare organization with an M.D./MBA degree
- Improve the healthcare system through data science or public policy
- Become a researcher working on biomedical technology
Whatever your reasons for attending medical school, it’s helpful to have a background in the sciences, which is why many students take pre-med courses or focus on biology and life science courses in high school and college.
While every school has its own admissions requirements, a recent AAMC report shows that the average GPA for getting into medical school is 3.75 and the average MCAT score is 511.9. Students with lower scores may be able to make up for it in other parts of their application.
In addition to academic requirements, doctors should have good people skills, including communication and leadership skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. They need to be able to solve problems, stay organized, and have the physical stamina to work long hours at a time.
Also, some schools require applicants to be U.S. residents or in-state residents. If you’re an international student, you may have a better chance of being accepted if you’ve completed at least some of your undergraduate study in the U.S.
Finally, it’s important to attend medical school because you want to improve people’s lives — not just for the money or prestige. Depending on the program you choose, you may have to put some of your own life goals on hold until you graduate. But once you do, you’ll be well-placed to have a long and rewarding career in medicine.
Interested in another degree instead?
Learn more about online degrees, their start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.