<p>Hi! I am looking into undergrad/medical school combined programs and I found the the University Scholars Program at Washington University in St. Louis. I was wondering if anybody knew the acceptance rate of this particular program (I heard that it was only 5 people, but that seems extremely exclusive). Also, if anyone could explain to me how the Finalist system works (what it means to be a Finalist, what you do at Finalist Weekend, how to become fully accepted into the program, etc.) I would really appreciate it!
Thanks!</p>
<p>For the USPM stats to get in you have to write compelling essays demonstrating a passion for medicine, be involved in science research/science oriented clubs, maintain high grades in science courses, and have high testing scores. I imagine the testing scores to get into WashU’s USPM program are similar to those of Northwestern HPME: Average ACT-35, Average SAT- (CR-761,M-780,W-773). Though these are Northwestern HPME stats, WashU’s stats are probably extremely similar. I was told thousands apply to USPM because WashU is a premed haven with tons of people aspiring to make it into the program, 20 people get calls for interviews, and 5-7 actually make it through. Many who make it in will turn down Harvard, Yale, and Princeton to attend such a program. Hope that helps!</p>
<p>There is 1 interview with at least 2 interviewers per student. The interview will last about 15 minutes.</p>
<p>Thank you, @HereForTheLinks ! Do you know how other similar programs, such as Northwestern’s HPME or Brown’s PLME compare with the one at WashU?</p>
<p>One big difference is that you still have to take MCATS at WashU and score at least a 36 which is a VERY high score and not that easy to do. In northwestern and Brown no MCATS necessary. </p>
<p>In general, with the early admission, you have more freedom to plan your activities and studies without worrying much about your GPA or how med school admission look at you. You don’t feel the need to strategize and pad your resume. But the high MCAT and GPA requirements of WashU program virtually eliminates this benefit. </p>
<p>I personally think the Northwestern program has the best overall package. Its GPA requirement is very reasonable and the med school is still ranked within the top 20. </p>
<p>In addition to scoring at 36 on the MCAT, you need to maintain a 3.8 GPA, which is equally difficult</p>
<p>^Update: Northwestern revised the GPA requirement. Now, it’s 3.2 for science and 3.6 overall. Still no MCAT though. It’s still a lot easier than 36 AND 3.8.</p>
<p>Though do take into account that the students usually accepted to this program, chances are, have the ability to obtain a 36 and 3.8. Unlike med school admissions, one can take the MCAT multiple times without repercussion. Academics should be your #1 priority as extracurriculars are not as important since you already have a “guaranteed acceptance.” By choosing classes/teachers wisely, one can mitigate the 3.8 requirement as well. </p>
<p>Concur with @hagzzz . All of the USPM’s I knew had no trouble making the 3.8/36 requirement.</p>
<p>Also of (very important note), a 3.8/36 is NOT a guaranteed acceptance at WUSTL med. It’s one of the most selective schools. This topic has come up multiple times in the past few years, so take a look at the search function. I personally have linked to statistics in those threads that show that a 3.8/36 student has a decent but not guaranteed shot at wustl med. The USPM program is fantastic for those who (have the ability) to take advantage of it.</p>