Reviewed by:
Mary Banks
Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University
Reviewed: 5/7/24
The path to becoming a doctor starts with going to college for pre-med. A top school for the pre-med degree will ensure you succeed in medical school and beyond.
Picture this: you're standing on stage, a crisp white coat draped over your shoulders, and a stethoscope proudly hanging around your neck. The crowd erupts in applause as you take your first steps toward a lifelong dream of becoming a doctor. But before you can bask in the glory of that moment, you need to lay the foundation for success. And that, my friend, starts with choosing the perfect pre-med school.
In this article, we’ll explore the nation's top pre-med programs. These schools are the crème de la crème, the ultimate launching pads for aspiring physicians. They've got the resources, the reputation, and the track record to help you blaze your trail to medical school and beyond.
So, are you ready to discover the best pre-med schools in the nation? Get ready to take notes, because we're about to provide you with the top 15 programs that will set you on the path to medical greatness.
The 15 Best Schools for Pre-Med
| Medical School | Rankings | Acceptance Rate | Avg. GPA | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | #3 in National Universities | 3.4% | 3.9 | $56,550 |
| Johns Hopkins University | #9 in National Universities | 7% | 3.9 | $64,730 |
| Stanford University | #3 in National Universities | 3.6% | 3.9 | $65,127 |
| Yale University | #5 in National Universities | 5% | 4.1 | $64,700 |
| The University of Pennsylvania | #6 in National Universities | 4% | 3.9 | $58,620 |
| Columbia University | #12 in National Universities | 4% | 4.1 | $68,400 |
| Duke University | #7 in National Universities | 6% | 4.1 | $66,326 |
| Medical School | Rankings | Acceptance Rate | Avg. GPA | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwestern University | #9 in National Universities | 7% | 4.1 | $64,887 |
| Brown University | #9 in National Universities | 5% | 4.1 | $65,656 |
| Cornell University | #12 in National Universities | 7% | 4.0 | $68,380 |
| The University of Chicago | #12 in National Universities | 5% | 4.0 | $63,801 |
| University of Notre Dame | #20 in National Universities | 12% | 4.0 | $62,693 |
| UNC-Chapel Hill | #22 in National Universities | 17% | 4.0 | $7,020 |
| Georgetown University | #22 in National Universities | 12% | 4.0 | $67,824 |
| Washington University at St. Louis | #24 in National Universities | 11% | 4.0 | $64,500 |
Many of the schools on this list stand out as Ivy League or equivalent schools, making them incredibly competitive and difficult to get into.
Only some schools have a dedicated pre-med degree. Students interested in pre-med should research each school’s program carefully. Below is a list of pre-med schools in the U.S.
Harvard University
Ranking: #3 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Average GPA: 3.9
Average SAT Score: 1530
Average ACT Score: 34.5
Acceptance Rate: 3%
In-state tuition: $56,550 per year
You've set your sights on Harvard University and for good reason. This prestigious institution offers an exceptional pre-med program that allows students to tackle their requirements at a pace that suits them best. It's no wonder that Harvard tops the list of best colleges for pre-med in the United States.
But let's be real - getting into Harvard is no walk in the park. It's part of the Ivy League, a group of elite private colleges in the Northeast that are notorious for their incredibly competitive admissions process. If you're dead set on donning that crimson Harvard hoodie, you'll need to bring your A-game.
For those eager beavers who want to secure their spot early, the Early Decision deadline is November 1st. You'll be biting your nails until mid-December when the notifications roll out. If you're taking the regular route, you've got until January 1st to submit your application, with the nail-biting lasting until the end of March.
Johns Hopkins University
Ranking: #9 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Average GPA: 3.9
Average SAT Score: 1530-1560
Average ACT Score: 34.5
Acceptance Rate: 7%
In-state tuition: $64,730 per year
When it comes to pre-med, Johns Hopkins University is a name that demands respect. Their school of medicine is world-renowned, and their pre-health advising is second to none. If you're an undergrad at Johns Hopkins, you'll have a serious leg up on the competition when it comes to getting into med school.
But here's the kicker: Johns Hopkins isn't your typical one-and-done Early Decision school. They've got two rounds of Early Decision applications, so you've got two times the chance to secure your spot. The first deadline is November 1st, with decisions dropping on December 16th. If you miss that one, don't worry - you can aim for the January 3rd deadline and wait for your acceptance letter after February 17th.
Not ready to commit? That’s okay. Johns Hopkins also offers a regular decision option, with the same January 3rd deadline. You'll just have to wait a bit longer for that life-changing news, with decisions released on March 17th.
So, if you're looking for a non-Ivy League pre-med powerhouse, look no further than Johns Hopkins. It's part of the elite Ivy Plus Schools, a group of private colleges that give the Ivies a run for their money. Get ready to don that blue and white and take your first steps toward your dream of becoming a doctor!
Stanford University
Ranking: #3 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Stanford, California
Average GPA: 3.9
Average SAT Score: 1500-1580
Average ACT Score: 33-35
Acceptance Rate: 3.6%
In-state tuition: $65,127
If you're on the hunt for a top-notch school to kickstart your pre-med journey, Stanford is the place to be. Sure, they might not have a one-size-fits-all pre-med program but don't let that fool you. Stanford's got your back with their incredible pre-health academic advising, designed to guide you every step of the way as you prep for med school.
Now, let's talk about deadlines. If you're the type who likes to get things done early, you'll want to circle November 1st on your calendar. That's the early action deadline, and if you make the cut, you'll be celebrating by mid-December when decisions are released.
But if you're more of a procrastinator (no judgment here!), you've got until January 5th to submit your regular decision application. Just be prepared to bite your nails until early April when those life-changing decisions are posted.
Yale University
Ranking: #5 in U.S. National Universities
Location: New Haven, Connecticut
Average GPA: N/A
Average SAT Score: 1540
Average ACT Score: 35
Acceptance Rate: 5%
In-state tuition: $64,700
If you're looking for a university that's got your back on your journey to med school, look no further than Yale. This Ivy League heavyweight is known for its pre-med resources that'll make you feel like you've got a whole team of cheerleaders in your corner.
First up, Yale's Health Professions and STEM Advising is the stuff of pre-med dreams. They've got everything you need to navigate the complex world of med school applications.
But wait, there's more! The Yale Office of Career Strategy is where the magic really happens. Picture this: one-on-one counseling with actual Yale Medical School admissions committee members. It's like having a secret weapon in your pre-med arsenal!
If you're a go-getter who wants to secure your spot early, you'll want to mark November 1st on your calendar. That's when both the early action deadline and the Questbridge National Match Day take place. But if you're more of a fashionably late type, don't worry - you've got until January 2nd to submit your regular decision application.
The University of Pennsylvania
Ranking: #6 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Average GPA: 3.9
Average SAT Score: 1510-1560
Average ACT Score: 34-35
Acceptance Rate: 4%
In-state tuition: $58,620 per year
The University of Pennsylvania serves up some seriously impressive pre-med courses that'll have you feeling like you're already wearing that white coat.
But here's the best part: at Penn, you're not just a number. You'll be working hand-in-hand with an advisor to craft the perfect academic game plan. Together, you'll tackle those important med school core classes while making sure your overall degree is on point. It's like having a personal pre-med guru by your side!
If you're the type who likes to get things done early, you'll want to circle November 1st on your calendar. That's when Early Decision applications are due, and if you make the cut, you'll be celebrating by mid-December when decisions are released. And if you miss that deadline, you've got until January 5th to submit your regular decision application.
Columbia University
Ranking: #12 in U.S. National Universities
Location: New York City, New York
Average GPA: 3.9
Average SAT Score: 1525
Average ACT Score: 34-35
Acceptance Rate: 4%
In-state tuition: $68,400 per year
If you're kicking yourself for not taking those pre-med classes the first time around, Columbia University has got your back. They're offering up a game-changing Postbac Pre-med curriculum program that's designed specifically for people like you.
At Columbia, you'll be hitting the books alongside bright-eyed undergrads, soaking up all the critical med-school prerequisites you need. It's like getting a second chance at your pre-med destiny, and Columbia is handing you the keys to success.
If you're the type who likes to plan ahead, you'll want to mark November 1st on your calendar. That's when Early Decision applications are due, and if you're one of the chosen few, you'll be doing a victory dance by mid-December when decisions are released.
But if you're more of a last-minute wonder, don't worry - you've got until January 1st to submit your regular decision application. Get ready to trade in your "what-ifs" for a white coat and stethoscope, because with Columbia's Postbac Pre-med program, the sky's the limit!
Duke University
Ranking: #7 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Durham, North Carolina
Average GPA: 4.0
Average SAT Score: 1490-1570
Average ACT Score: 34-35
Acceptance Rate: 6%
In-state tuition: $66,326 per year
At Duke University, you're not just a student - you're a future medical leader. And with the expert guidance of the Duke Office of Health Professions Advising, you'll craft a schedule that checks all the right boxes for med school.
But let's get real - getting into Duke isn't a cakewalk. As a prestigious Ivy Plus school, the competition is fierce. So, what sets you apart from the pack?
It's all about highlighting your passion, dedication, and strengths in your application. Think of it as your chance to tell your story and demonstrate why you'd be an amazing fit for Duke's academic community.
If you're ready to make Duke your top choice, you'll want to circle November 1st on your calendar. That's the early decision deadline, and if you're accepted, you'll be celebrating by mid-December.
But if you need a bit more time, the regular decision deadline is January 3rd, with decisions released in early April. Either way, you'll be one step closer to joining the Duke family and starting your journey to medical greatness.
Northwestern University
Ranking: #9 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Clarkston, Illinois
Average GPA: N/A
Average SAT Score: 1460-1540
Average ACT Score: 33-35
Acceptance Rate: 7%
In-state tuition: $64,887 per year
Imagine having a direct path to medical school, minus the uncertainty of the application process. Northwestern University makes that a reality with its innovative Undergraduate Premedical Scholars Program.
This elite program not only fulfills your pre-med requirements but also guarantees admission to Northwestern's medical school.
If Northwestern is your top choice (and why wouldn't it be?), you'll want to take advantage of this incredible opportunity. The program is designed to foster a community of future medical leaders, and with Northwestern's reputation for excellence, you'll be in excellent company.
If you're ready to secure your spot, mark November 1st on your calendar. That's the Early Decision deadline, and if you're accepted, you'll be celebrating by mid-December.
But if you need a bit more time, the regular decision deadline is January 2nd, with decisions released in late March.
Brown University
Ranking: #9 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Average GPA: 3.9
Average SAT Score: 1510-1570
Average ACT Score: 34-36
Acceptance Rate: 5%
In-state tuition: $65,656
Want to join the ranks of the medical elite? Brown University is the perfect haven for aspiring med students, offering support through their Health Careers Advising.
At Brown, you'll find a community that's passionate about empowering future doctors. From research opportunities to clinical experiences, you'll have access to a wealth of resources designed to help you stand out in the competitive med school landscape. And with Brown's reputation for academic excellence, you'll be joining the ranks of the elite.
If you're ready to make Brown your top choice, circle November 1st on your calendar. That's the Early Decision deadline, and if you're accepted, you'll be celebrating by mid-December.
And if you need some more time, the regular application deadline is January 3rd, with decisions released on March 28th.
Cornell University
Ranking: #12 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Ithaca, New York
Average GPA: N/A
Average SAT Score: 1510
Average ACT Score: 34
Acceptance Rate: 7%
In-state tuition: $68,380 per year
If you're looking for an Ivy League university that's got your back on your pre-med journey, Cornell is the place to be. While they may not offer a specific pre-med major, don't let that fool you. Cornell's pre-health resources and advising are the stuff of legends, making sure you'll be on the fast track to med school success.
Imagine having the freedom to explore any of Cornell's 40 majors while still getting the top-notch pre-med guidance you need. It's like having your cake and eating it too!
With Cornell's expert advisors by your side, you'll navigate the complexities of pre-med with ease, from tackling prerequisites to finding the perfect research opportunities.
If you're ready to make Cornell your top choice, mark November 1st on your calendar. That's the Early Decision deadline, and if you're accepted, you'll be celebrating by mid-December.
But if you need a bit more time, the regular decision deadline is January 2nd, with decisions released in early April.
The University of Chicago
Ranking: #12 in U.S. National Universities
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Average GPA: 3.75-4.0
Average SAT Score: 1510-1560
Average ACT Score: 34-35
Acceptance Rate: 4.8%
In-state tuition: $63,801 per year
If you're looking for a university that's dedicated to helping you build a solid foundation for med school, look no further than the University of Chicago. This academic powerhouse is known for its game-changing cohort programs that give pre-med students the ultimate edge.
Imagine being part of a tight-knit community of future medical leaders, exploring the ins and outs of the medical field together. At UChicago, you'll have the chance to dive deep into the field of medicine, sharpening your skills and building a competitive application that'll make med school admissions officers sit up and take notice.
Take their year-long clinical service fellows program, for example. This incredible opportunity is designed specifically for first-year students, giving you a front-row seat to what it really means to serve patients. You'll be rolling up your sleeves and getting hands-on experience, completing two to four hours of clinical volunteering each week at hospitals, clinics, and community organizations. It's the perfect way to gain a deeper understanding of the medical field and start making a real difference in people's lives.
But that's just the beginning. UChicago's cohort programs are designed to support you every step of the way, from exploring your passions to building a network of like-minded peers. With UChicago by your side, you'll be well on your way to becoming the doctor you've always dreamed of being.
The University of Chicago’s deadlines are as follows:
| Application Type | Due Date | Decision Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Early Action | November 1st | Mid-December |
| Early Decision I | November 1st | Mid-December |
| Early Decision II | January 2nd | Mid-February |
| Regular Decision | January 2nd | Late March |
University of Notre Dame
Ranking: #20 U.S. Colleges Nationally
Location: Notre Dame, Indiana
Average GPA: 4.0
Average SAT Score: 1450-1530
Average ACT Score: 33-35
Acceptance Rate: 12%
In-state tuition: $62,693 per year
Want to join a pre-med school that’ll make med school admissions officers stop in their tracks? Look no further than the University of Notre Dame. With their one-of-a-kind pre-health supplementary major, you'll have the freedom to pursue your passions while getting the top-notch education, skills, and experience you need to crush it in med school.
Imagine being able to dive deep into any major in the College of Arts and Letters, from English to Philosophy, while still getting the pre-med training you need. Notre Dame's pre-health supplementary major is designed to give you the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to explore your interests while still staying on track for med school.
But that's just the beginning. At Notre Dame, you'll be part of a vibrant community of future medical leaders, all working towards the same goal. You'll have access to cutting-edge research opportunities, hands-on clinical experiences, and a network of supportive faculty and peers who are invested in your success. With Notre Dame by your side, you'll be well on your way to donning your white lab coat.
The application floodgates open on August 1st, so mark your calendar and get ready to hit the ground running. If you're a go-getter who wants to secure your spot early, you'll want to submit your restrictive early action application by November 1st. Otherwise, the regular decision deadline is January 1st.
UNC-Chapel Hill
Ranking: #22 U.S. Colleges Nationally
Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Average GPA: N/A
Average SAT Score: 1415
Average ACT Score: 31
Acceptance Rate: 17%
In-state tuition: $7,020 per year
With UNC-Chapel Hill’s advice and support from credible health professionals, you'll be well on your way to dominating med school and beyond.
At UNC, you'll find a community of like-minded future medical leaders, all working towards the same goal. You'll have access to cutting-edge research opportunities, hands-on clinical experiences, and a network of expert faculty who are invested in your success. And with UNC's reputation for academic excellence, you'll be part of a proud tradition of Tar Heels who are changing the face of medicine.
But here's the best part: UNC is a public university, which means you'll get all the benefits of a world-class education without the hefty price tag of a private school. It's like getting the ultimate bang for your buck!
If you're ready to make UNC your top choice, you'll want to mark October 15th on your calendar. That's the Early Decision deadline, and if you're accepted, you'll be celebrating by January 15th when admission decisions are sent out.
But if you need a bit more time to perfect your application, the regular decision deadline is January 15th, with decisions coming out on March 31st.
Georgetown University
Ranking: #22 U.S. Colleges Nationally
Location: Washington, District of Columbia
Average GPA: N/A
Average SAT Score: 1410-1540
Average ACT Score: 32-35
Acceptance Rate: 12%
In-state tuition: $67,824 per year
If you're looking for a university that's got your back on your journey to med school, Georgetown University is the ultimate destination. With their game-changing Early Assurance program, high-achieving undergrads can secure their spot at one of the nation's top medical schools before they even don their caps and gowns. Talk about a fast track to success!
But that's not all. Georgetown's pre-med advising is really on another level, making sure you have the guidance and support you need to make your med school dreams a reality. From navigating the application process to finding the perfect research opportunities, Georgetown's expert advisors will be with you every step of the way.
If you're ready to make Georgetown your top choice, circle November 1st on your calendar. That's the early action deadline, and if you're accepted, you'll be celebrating by December 15th when admissions decisions are released. But if you need a bit more time to craft the perfect application, don't sweat it - the regular decision deadline is January 10th, with decisions coming out on April 1st.
Washington University at St. Louis
Ranking: #24 in U.S. National Universities
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Average GPA: N/A
Average SAT Score: 1530
Average ACT Score: 34
Acceptance Rate: 11%
In-state tuition: $64,500 per year
If you're looking for a university that can put you on the fast track to a medical degree, the University of Washington is your ultimate destination. With their innovative pre-health program, you can knock out your pre-med undergraduate requirements while earning your bachelor's degree.
At UW, you'll find a community of future medical leaders who are just as driven and passionate as you are. You'll have access to cutting-edge research opportunities, hands-on clinical experiences, and a network of expert faculty who are invested in your success. And with UW's reputation for academic excellence, you'll be part of a proud tradition of Huskies who are changing the face of medicine.
If you're a go-getter who wants to secure your spot early, you'll want to apply for Early Decision by November 1st. You'll be biting your nails until December 16th when admission responses are released, but it'll be worth the wait.
But if you need a bit more time to perfect your application, don't worry - the second round of Early Decision goes until January 1st, with responses coming out by February 16th. And if you're more of a regular decision kind of person, you've got until January 1st to submit your application, with responses released on April 1st.
Choosing the Best Pre-Med School
With so many options to choose from, choosing the right pre-med school can be overwhelming. But don’t worry! You can use the below selection quiz to find a pre-med school near you that suits all your needs.
FAQs: Best Pre-Med Schools
Below, you’ll find common questions about pre-med schools and their application process.
1. What College Has the Best Pre-Med Program?
Harvard University offers the best pre-med program in the United States. Its flexible curriculum, world-class faculty, and extensive research opportunities provide an exceptional foundation for aspiring medical students.
2. What Is the Easiest Pre-Med School to Get Into?
The easiest pre-med school is the University of North Dakota. With an acceptance rate of 83.3%, you can count on this as one of your safety schools for pre-med.
3. What is the Best Major to Choose to Get into Pre-Med School?
Although many pre-med students choose biology or a related science, medical schools are increasingly seeking well-rounded applicants. Majoring in the humanities, such as English or a foreign language, is a great choice for pre-med students.
4. What Is the Hardest Pre-Med Major?
Chemistry is often considered the most challenging major for pre-med students. The coursework is rigorous and requires a strong foundation in mathematics and physics.
5. Is Majoring in Pre-Med Worth It?
Pre-med is worth majoring in if you intend to become a doctor. However, most schools only offer pre-med as a series of required college classes to prepare and qualify you for medical school.
6. What Are the Best Non-Ivy League Schools for Pre-Med?
Several non-Ivy League schools offer excellent pre-med programs:
- Johns Hopkins University
- Stanford University
- Duke University
- Washington University at St. Louis
- Northwestern University
- UNC-Chapel Hill
These schools provide a quality of education equivalent to that of Ivy League schools.
7. Why Are Pre-Med Schools So Competitive?
Pre-med schools are highly competitive because they serve as the foundation for success in medical school. Medical schools have rigorous admissions standards, and pre-med programs must prepare students to meet these expectations.
Final Thoughts
Pre-med is not a college major. It is a list of required college classes you must take to prepare for the medical school exam. With them, you will meet the requirements to attend medical school. To qualify for med school, students need guidance to meet their pre-med class requirements from a reputable college.
Finding a great school for pre-med is an important step toward becoming a doctor. The best pre-med schools offer the highest quality of education for the classes that medical schools want to see on your transcript. Any top pre-med school will provide the knowledge students require for med-school.
