Many clients tell me they don’t know where to start in picking which medical schools are appropriate for their application list. I recommend starting with the MSAR. This book (fully titled Medical School Admission Requirements) is published by the Association of American Medical Colleges and lists all U.S. and Canadian medical schools. Unfortunately, the MSAR does not include schools outside the U.S./Canada, including those in the Carribbean, Mexico, Israel, etc. However, it’s still a good start. The MSAR lists selection factors that can help you compare your qualifications to schools’ accepted applicants.

Considering how competitive medical school is, I recommend setting your sights on getting an MD (or DO), rather than on attending a particular school. (As we discussed earlier, geography is important, and it’s fair to rule out schools based on their location. But understand this might hurt you if you are not a competitive candidate.) Ensure you create a list that has three tiers of schools: Your dream schools, more realistic schools and schools you would be less excited about but you would attend if admitted.

For one-on-one help applying to medical school – assistance with your AMCAS, personal statement, secondary essays, your interviews – please see http://www.insidermedicaladmissions.com/applicants/medapplicant.shtml .