FAQs

Application Process

• How do I apply?
  There are two ways to apply to the MBS program. A direct application is open from January to May each year, or MD applicants can use their AMCAS application from the current cycle for dual consideration. MD applicants wishing to be considered using their AMCAS application must email Admissions with their AMCAS ID prior to the May 1 deadline.
• If I applied with AMCAS, do I need to apply direct as well?
  No, the AMCAS application has all that is needed to apply for the MBS program.
• Can I apply if my MCAT is below the 497 minimum?
  No. In order to be considered, your most recent MCAT score must be at or above the 497 minimum.
• If I apply to the MD program and want to be considered for the MBS as well, does that hurt my MD chances?
  No. We do not begin MBS application review until MD interviews are concluded. Your application to the MBS and the MD programs will be considered separately during each independent review process.
• Can I submit my MCAT score after the application deadline?
  No. Due to time constraints, we cannot allow MCAT scores to be submitted after our deadline. You must have an official MCAT score meeting the minimum on file by the application deadline to be considered.
• Can I start an application without having an MCAT score or submit an updated MCAT score?

  Yes, you can start an application prior to receiving an MCAT score. However, an MCAT score at or above the 497 minimum is required to be on file in order to submit the application.

  You may submit an updated MCAT score at any point before the final May 1 application deadline.

• Is the minimum 3.0 GPA cumulative or science?
  Either. One of your GPAs must be above 3.0 to be eligible for admission.
• Can I still apply with a GPA under 3.0 if I took post-bacc credits?
  Yes. We will average your post-bacc credits with your undergraduate credits to determine a new GPA.
• What is the application review timeline?
  Early review begins late March for all applications completed by the priority deadline. Review and interview invitations continue on a rolling basis through April and May. All applications complete by the final May 1 deadline are guaranteed review. All applicants will receive a final decision by the end of May.
• Can I submit letters of recommendation from physicians or other advisors that I have worked with outside of school?
  Yes, while we recommend that at least one letter be from a science faculty member, letters of recommendation can come from any professional mentor or advisor who can speak to the attributes that will set you up for success within the MBS program.

Program and Curriculum

• When does the program start?
  The MBS entering class of 2026 will begin in Kalamazoo on June 29, 2026.
• What are tuition costs?
  The MBS program includes a full-tuition scholarship for all matriculating students. Many students also receive a cost-of-living stipend for the MBS year.
• What is a typical class size?
  The MBS cohort is typically 6-8 students. The program is small on purpose in order to offer a fully-funded and highly-individualized supportive environment for each of our master’s students.
• Who teaches the MBS courses?
  The courses for the MBS program are taught by medical school faculty. Three of the MBS courses run alongside current MD student courses.
• Do students have to retake the same exact courses when they start the MD?
  Three of the courses are largely the same, but the MD versions of those courses have additional content that place a much greater emphasis on clinical application of the information. The advanced course exposure benefits MBS students as they have seen much of the material before and are able to better manage their schedules. MBS students often become leaders in their M1 year due to their advanced knowledge on the topics.
• What does the capstone project entail?
  The MBS capstone project is a literature-based research project, where students compose a review article on a topic of interest, supported by faculty mentors. At the end of the program, MBS students present their capstone project at the MBS symposium.
• What is considered 'successful MBS completion' for MD matriculation?
  Students in the MBS program are conditionally offered admission to the following MD cohort, pending successful completion of the MBS program. Successful completion includes passing all required courses (some remediation is allowed), graduating from the MBS program on time, and not accumulating excessive absences or professionalism concerns.