Frequently Asked Questions
Related Links: Applying to the College, Timeline/Deadlines, Contact Admissions
When does the application process begin?
The application process for the 2010 Entering Class will commence in May 2009. All applications must be submitted through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). For Frequently Asked Questions in reference to your AMCAS application, please visit: http://www.aamc.org/students/amcas/faq/start.htm
Where can I find Admissions information for medical schools?
The best source of information is the Medical School Admissions Requirements book (MSAR) which is published by the AAMC. MSAR is available on-line at http://www.aamc.org
Is there a fee for the Secondary Application?
Applicants who have submitted an AMCAS application will be invited to complete a Secondary Application for a fee of $30 provided that they meet the minimum requirements of overall GPA of 3.0 and combined MCAT of 25.
What is the tuition?
For cost of attendance - click here
How do I qualify for Florida tuition?
To be considered a Florida resident for tuition purposes, a student must reside in Florida for at least 12 months prior to the beginning of classes. Verification including driver's license, vehicle registration and voter registration will be required.
What specific coursework do I need for admission?
The requirements are similar to those of other medical colleges and those outlined by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), listed below:
- General Biology with lab: 2 semesters
- General Inorganic Chemistry with lab: 2 semesters
- Organic Chemistry with lab: 2 semesters
- Physics with lab: 2 semesters
- Mathematics: Calculus or Statistics: 2 semesters
(2 of Calculus, 2 of Statistics, or one of each.)
- English and English Composition: 2 semesters
For a more detailed list, including recommendations visit the Prerequisites page.
Can prerequisite lower division courses be taken at community colleges?
Yes. However, it is preferred that courses be taken at a 4-year college or university.
Will AP and/or CLEP credits be accepted?
AP credits may fulfill course requirements; however it is highly recommended that additional coursework be taken in these areas. CLEP courses are not accepted. Courses taken at a four-year institution in a classroom are considered more academically competitive.
Will Distance Leaning/on-line courses be accepted?
Since most prerequisite courses include a laboratory component, courses taken on-line will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Will International students be eligible for the program?
We only accept US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, and Permanent Resident Aliens who have a "green card".
Will community service and/or volunteer activities make my application more competitive?
Community service and/or activities, especially relating to underserved populations will be highly valued.
Is research experience necessary for admission?
Research is not required but will enhance your application.
How important is having experience working with doctors and/or health care professionals?
"Hands-on" patient contact (work experience, volunteering, community service, etc.) over a consistent period of time, will make your application more competitive and is considered very important.
How many letters of recommendation will I need?
The FIU College of Medicine requires a minimum of three letters of recommendation, two from basic science faculty (biology, chemistry, physics, math) and one from any other faculty member who has taught the applicant.
(a) Health Professions Advisor or Advisory Committee letter perferably with
three or more letters attached, or
(b) Individual letters from science faculty (no more than two), and
(c) Individual letter from non-science faculty (no more than one)
Letters of recommendation from friends and/or relatives will not carry any weight with the admissions committee and should not be sent.
Is there an Early Decision Program?
Yes. Click Here to learn more.
Will I need to take the MCAT exam?
Yes. MCAT scores are required to complete your AMCAS application.
What if I took the MCAT a few years ago?
Scores from MCATs taken prior to 2007 will not be accepted.
What GPA and MCAT score will I need to be considered for admission?
You will need a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), a BCPM of 3.0, and an MCAT combined score of 25 for Regular Admission and a minimum GPA of 3.7 and a combined MCAT score of 32 for Early Decision.
What should my Personal Statement include?
The personal statement is your opportunity to tell us about yourself and why and how you made the decision to study medicine. It also gives you an opening to describe something that is otherwise not on your AMCAS application or to explain a record that may be questionable to the committee.
How can I practice or prepare for the interview?
Be yourself! Also, you must do your homework and learn about the school to which you are applying. Visit our Interview Tips section on this site. There are also many websites for medical school applicants that are full of valuable information about the interviews including sample questions that may be asked. One such site is: www.studentdoctor.net
I am currently pursuing a Graduate/Professional Degree. Do I have to complete the degree before I can apply to the College of Medicine?
If currently enrolled in a Graduate/Professional program, you must complete all requirements for your degree before matriculating.
If I am accepted, can I defer matriculation?
Deferments will not be considered.
Will Financial Assistance be available for the medical program?
Yes. We will have many sources of Financial Assistance for our students.
Will housing be available for medical students?
FIU students are encouraged to live in on-campus housing, however private rentals or purchase options are available in the vicinity of the university. For on campus housing, visit www.housing.fiu.edu for more information.
How many students will be accepted?
Matriculation Year |
|
Projected # of Students |
2009-2010 |
|
40 |
2010-2011 |
|
40 |
2011-2012 |
|
80 |
2012-2013 |
|
120 |
When do classes begin?
The inaugural class is scheduled to begin their medical education on August 3, 2009 and all subsequent classes will also start in August.
What if I change my contact information (address, phone, e-mail) after I submit my AMCAS Application?
You must update all contact information through your AMCAS application. Additionally, you should notify us by sending an e-mail to: med.admissions@fiu.edu
I have other questions.
Email us at med.admissions@fiu.edu
