If you’re a high school student already set on becoming a doctor and eager to skip the stress of applying to medical school later, then a BS/MD program might be the path for you. These highly competitive combined degree programs offer a direct route from undergraduate studies to medical school, eliminating the need for a separate med school application.

But don’t be fooled: BS/MD programs are not the "easier" path. They’re often even more selective than top undergraduate colleges, and the application process is intense. So how do you decide if this path is right for you…and how do you stand out?

Here’s everything you need to know about BS/MD programs: what they are, what they require, and how to maximize your chances of admission.

What Is a BS/MD Program?

A BS/MD program (Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Medicine) is a combined academic track where students are accepted to both undergraduate and medical school at the same time. Typically, the program lasts 7–8 years. Students complete undergraduate requirements first and then matriculate directly into medical school without having to take the MCAT or apply again (although a few programs still require minimum MCAT scores or academic performance thresholds).

Some schools offer variations:

• ‍BA/MD instead of BS/MD if the undergrad degree is in the arts or humanities.
• ‍Early assurance programs that allow students to apply to the med school component partway through college.

Popular BS/MD programs include:

‍Brown University’s Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME)

• Northwestern University’s HPME (no longer accepting new students)
• Boston University’s Seven-Year Liberal Arts/Medical Education Program
• University of Pittsburgh’s Guaranteed Admission Program

Who Should Consider a BS/MD Program?

These programs are ideal for:

• Students who are 100% committed to a career in medicine.
• Students with an exceptional academic track record in science and math.
• Students who have demonstrated sustained interest in healthcare (e.g., research, shadowing, volunteering).
• Students who want a streamlined, pressure-reduced path to becoming a physician.

That said, BS/MD programs are not for everyone. They require early commitment, a strong narrative, and excellent time management.

How Competitive Are BS/MD Programs?

Very. Acceptance rates are often <5%, and applicants are usually top-tier academic performers. For example:

• ‍Brown PLME admits fewer than 100 students from over 3,000 applicants.
• ‍Case Western’s Pre-Professional Scholars Program (PPSP) in medicine receives over 3,500 applicants for fewer than 20 spots.

Because of this competitiveness, students should apply to a combination of BS/MD programs and traditional undergraduate schools.

Application Requirements

In addition to the Common App, BS/MD applicants typically submit:

• Supplemental Essays: These go beyond typical college prompts and often ask for:
  
  • Why do you want to become a doctor?
  • Describe a meaningful healthcare experience.
  • Why this particular BS/MD program?
• High Test Scores: Many BS/MD programs still prefer SAT/ACT scores. Competitive applicants often have:
  
  • SAT: 1500+ or ACT: 34+
  • Strong SAT Subject Tests or AP scores in science/math (if available)
• Letters of Recommendation: Some programs require letters from both science and humanities teachers, or from healthcare professionals.
• Healthcare Experience: Volunteering at hospitals, shadowing physicians, or conducting medical research are must-haves. A resume that shows long-term commitment—not just one summer—is key.
• Interviews: If you make the first cut, you’ll be invited to an interview. These often resemble med school interviews, not college ones.

What Makes a Successful BS/MD Applicant?

• Demonstrated Passion for Medicine: A genuine, sustained interest in healthcare—not just a one-time volunteering gig.
• Academic Excellence in STEM: Top grades and challenging coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
• Clear and Convincing Motivation: You need to explain *why* you want to commit to medicine so early.
• Well-Roundedness: Leadership, communication skills, and empathy matter just as much as intellect.

How to Build a Competitive Profile

Start Early:

• ‍9th–10th grade: Focus on strong academics, particularly in STEM. Join science clubs or medical-related groups like HOSA.
• ‍11th grade: Take AP science courses, seek research or clinical exposure, and build relationships with teachers for recommendations.
• ‍12th grade: Finalize your BS/MD school list, prepare for supplemental essays, and practice for interviews.

Be Strategic:

• Apply to schools where your academic profile is a strong fit.
• Don’t put all your eggs in the BS/MD basket—have a parallel plan.

What If You’re Not 100% Sure?

That’s okay. A traditional pre-med track at a liberal arts college or research university can offer more flexibility. Students who need more time to explore may thrive in an environment that allows them to grow before committing to medicine.

Final Thoughts: Is BS/MD Right for You?

BS/MD programs offer a unique path, but it’s a hard one. The students who succeed are those with a clear sense of purpose, a strong academic foundation, and the maturity to commit to a long-term goal.

If that sounds like you, great! If not, there are many other routes to becoming a doctor.

Need help deciding or applying?

At AtomicMind, we help future doctors build competitive profiles, craft compelling narratives, and navigate every step of the BS/MD process. From activity strategy to mock interviews, our expert advisors are here to support you.

Reach out to AtomicMind and let’s chart your path to medical school—together.