The medical school application timeline
A typical US application cycle runs more than a year from MCAT preparation to matriculation. This is a general month-by-month view. Exact dates vary by application service and school, so confirm each one directly.
Information, not advice. A generalized timeline for reference. It is not admissions advice; verify every deadline with the application service and the school.
A typical cycle
| When | What happens |
|---|---|
| Spring (year before) | Prepare and sit the MCAT; request letters of recommendation; draft the personal statement. |
| May–June | Primary applications open: AMCAS (MD), AACOMAS (DO), and TMDSAS (most Texas public schools). Submit early. |
| June–August | Verification and transmission to schools; secondary (supplemental) applications arrive and are due quickly. |
| August–March | Interviews, typically on a rolling basis. |
| October onward | Admissions offers begin (MD offers generally start October 15) and continue on a rolling basis. |
| Spring | Commitment deadlines and waitlist movement; financial aid packaging. |
The three application services
AMCAS handles most MD programs, AACOMAS handles DO programs, and TMDSAS handles most public Texas schools. Each school page in this directory lists the portal that school uses, so you can plan which services you need.
From here you can browse MD schools,DO schools, or compare programs by state and type.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between AMCAS, AACOMAS, and TMDSAS?
AMCAS is the centralized application for most MD programs, AACOMAS for DO programs, and TMDSAS for most public Texas medical and dental schools. Each school page lists the portal it uses.
Why does applying early matter?
Most schools review on a rolling basis, so earlier complete applications are read against more available interview and offer slots. Exact policies vary by school.