University of Maryland - Office of Professional Studies: Keep Learning

College of
Chemical and Life Science's
Science in the Evening Program

Hints for Preparation for MCATS and Medical School Application

We recommend the following courses for optimal MCAT preparation

  • One year of general chemistry: CHEM131/132 and CHEM271/272 in the new chemistry curriculum at UM
  • One year of organic chemistry: CHEM231/232 and CHEM241/242 at UM
  • A minimum of three semesters of biology:
    • BSCI105, BSCI230, and BSCI440 at UM
  • One year of physics: PHYS121 and PHYS122 at UM
  • Any of the following additional optional courses to round out and enhance your knowledge:
    • BSCI223 General Microbiology
    • BSCI424 Pathogenic Microbiology
    • BSCI422 Immunology
    • BSCI436 Drug Action and Design
    • BCHM463 Biochemistry for physiologists. Note this course is NOT offered in SIE at this time. However, it can be helpful for MCAT preparation and some SIE students may be able to register for our daytime offering or at another institution.
    • Any other upper level BSCI courses in our daytime offerings

In general courses for medical school should NOT be:

  • Over ten years old
  • Taken in another country
  • Generally should be grades of A or B
    • However, it is usually NOT advisable to retake a course in which you received a C. It is better to take the next higher course and earn an A. If you have questions about your own situation make an appointment to speak with the SIE academic advisor.

Applicants to medical school should have the following additional experiences when possible.

  • Experience in a medical setting, being around patients is essential.
  • Community service is also critical.
  • Basic scientific research experience is helpful if possible.

Letters of recommendation.

  • Think about these at the beginning of your path toward medical school.
  • At least two should be from academic faculty.
  • Consider each of your instructors as a potential letter-write at the beginning of each course. If you think you might ask a particuular instructor for a letter, make an effort during the semester to make yourself known to that instructor, via conversations before and after class and over email. A letter that simple says "Sally got an A in my course." Is not helpful.