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What is the University Scholars Program in Medicine (USPM)?
The University Scholars Program in Medicine (USPM) is an opportunity for a select group of talented students to gain admission both to undergraduate study and to the Washington University School of Medicine. Admission to the USPM is competitive. If you change your mind about medical school, you are not obligated to pursue it.
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Who should apply to the USPM?
Highly motivated high school seniors of strong character with outstanding academic records, significant extracurricular contributions to their school and community, and an interest in pursuing a career in medicine are encouraged to apply.
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How are students chosen for the program?
The University Scholars Program in Medicine gives students a special opportunity to participate in both the undergraduate life and the graduate life of Washington University, starting in their freshman year. We look for those students who can gain the most from that unique advantage—and challenge—and who will add significantly to the Washington University community by their active participation in their undergraduate and graduate programs. Most of all, we look for students of strong character with outstanding academic records who demonstrate personal achievement, citizenship, and leadership in academic and extracurricular activities in high school and who will continue these in their undergraduate years.
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Is the USPM a scholarship program? May I apply to the USPM and also apply for the academic scholarships and fellowships? How about need-based financial aid as an undergraduate and when I enter the graduate program?
The University Scholars Program in Medicine is an academic opportunity for highly motivated students. It is not a scholarship program. Applicants to the USPM should also apply for need-based financial assistance, if appropriate. Furthermore, we encourage all students, and especially potential University Scholars, to apply for the University’s academic scholarship and fellowship programs. A separate application is required for merit-based scholarships. Please click here for more information about academic scholarships and fellowships.
Most undergraduates at Washington University receive financial assistance. Need-based grants are the primary resource. Student loans (low interest, deferred payments) and part-time employment on campus are also available. The University also offers attractive payment and financing plans for parents. Students who receive financial assistance come from a broad range of economic backgrounds.
The School of Medicine determines its own financial assistance awards for students. Scholarships are primarily based on academic merit. Although medical school financial assistance is not guaranteed, we will work with you to help make attendance affordable.
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May I apply to the USPM and also apply to Washington University as an Early Decision applicant?
Yes. Students applying Early Decision would be considered for admission to the University Scholars Program in Medicine during the spring of their senior year of high school. The deadline to apply for the University Scholars Program in Medicine applications is January 15, 2010.
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When will I know if I have been chosen for the USPM?
The University Scholars Committee will select a group of finalists invited to visit campus during the spring of their senior year of high school—at the University’s expense—to participate in special activities and interviews. Those who are named University Scholars in Medicine will be notified shortly thereafter.
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If I’m not chosen as a University Scholar in Medicine, does this mean that I will automatically be denied undergraduate admission to Washington University?
Absolutely not. Admission decisions and University Scholars Program in Medicine decisions are always made separately. Those not chosen for the USPM may still be admitted to one of Washington University’s outstanding undergraduate divisions.
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If I’m not named a University Scholar in Medicine, will I be able to apply to the School of Medicine at a later date?
Of course, and we encourage you to do so. The University Scholars Program in Medicine provides a very special opportunity for a small group of students.
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Is admission to the School of Medicine guaranteed?
Washington University’s School of Medicine is one of the most selective in the nation. To assure that students will be successful in medical school, a University Scholar in Medicine must:
- maintain a 3.8 grade point average (GPA) as an undergraduate student
- complete an application to the School of Medicine the year before entering medical studies
- achieve a total score of at least 36 on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
- complete a successful interview with the School of Medicine’s Committee on Admissions.
If you meet the above four requirements, we will guarantee your admission to Washington University’s School of Medicine.
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What should I select as a major in order to participate in the USPM?
You will have a wide choice for your undergraduate major. Majoring in one of the natural sciences or engineering is traditional, but majors in the humanities and social sciences are equally welcome. Study abroad experience is also welcome. As an undergraduate, you will need to complete a minimum of one year each of biological science, general or inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and mathematics through differential calculus. Our pre-medical advisors in the College of Arts & Science and the School of Engineering & Applied Science can work with you to make sure you have the preparation necessary for medical school.
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If I enroll at Washington University as a University Scholar in Medicine, is it a binding commitment?
Of course not. University Scholars in Medicine may change their minds at any time, and they are not required to enter the School of Medicine at Washington University.
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Is the University Scholars Program in Medicine an accelerated program?
We want all our undergraduate students to have an exciting and fulfilling undergraduate experience. Thus, the University Scholars Program in Medicine is not intended to be an accelerated program.
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Is the University Scholars Program in Medicine considered an honors program?
Although USPM is an academic opportunity for a select group of talented students, it is not considered an honors program.
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If I enroll at Washington University as a University Scholar in Medicine, can I study abroad?
Absolutely. As a University Scholar in Medicine, you may also choose to study abroad.
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How can I learn more about the USPM?
You can learn more about the USPM by contacting the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at (800) 638-0700 (within the U.S.) or (314) 935-6000 or by sending e-mail to uscholars@wustl.edu. The best way to learn more about the University Scholars Program in Medicine and Washington University is by visiting the campus. When you come to Washington University, we will customize your visit to suit your personal interests. You can participate in a group information session, take a campus tour, have an optional on-campus interview, and sit in on classes. You also might want to attend the meeting of a student organization or work out in the Athletic Complex. If you want to talk to someone about the School of Medicine, let us know and we will assist in fulfilling your request. To schedule a visit, please call (800) 638-0700 or (314) 935-6000 or click here to submit our online campus visit scheduler form.
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