Pre-Health Timeline

This timeline is designed to provide general guidance and promote conversation between you and your Pre-Health team. Specific plans for particular students will vary according to the individual, their academic plans, and program requirements for specific professional schools. 

Year One

• Meet with your college advisor.
• Get started on your prerequisite courses.
• Use academic success resources to support learning.
• ​Explore your options for health careers.
• Attend Pre­-Health meetings of student organizations.
• Apply early for opportunities to gain experience during the summer or school year.
• Consider whether you want to study abroad.

Year Two

• Get started on an experience such as an internship, volunteer, or research opportunity.
• Stay on track with prerequisite courses.
• Attend Pre­-Health meetings of student organizations.
• Connect with faculty and mentors.
• Explore the healthcare landscape.

Year Three

• Develop your application strategy (if taking a gap year, adjust the timeline accordingly):
  • Select your top schools based upon fit for you.
  • Register and prepare for admission entrance exams.
  • Secure letters of recommendation.
  • Write your personal statement.
• Continue volunteer, leadership, and research projects.
• Complete most applicable coursework prior to taking admissions exams.
• Submit your application in a timely manner.
• Develop your parallel plan to provide you with a strong alternative.

Year Four

• Prepare for interviews.
• Receive letters of acceptance or rejection:
  • If accepted, decide where you want to go.
  • If rejected, it’s OK! Consider a gap year or post­bac program. Try again or move to your parallel plan.