5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Medical School Admissions Consultant

Why Consider a Medical School Admissions Consultant?

Applying to medical school is one of the most competitive and complex journeys you can take. From crafting your personal statement to compiling extracurriculars and preparing for interviews, the process can be overwhelming.

That’s why many applicants turn to medical school admissions consultants. But with so many services available, how do you choose the right one? Start by asking the right questions—before you invest your time and money.

What Is Your Experience in Medical School Admissions?

Before signing any agreement or paying a fee, find out what qualifies the consultant to advise you. Ask about:

The institutions they’ve worked with
Their specific roles in admissions (committee member, interviewer, etc.)
How long they’ve worked in the field
Whether they’ve helped students gain admission to your target schools

A seasoned consultant doesn’t just know the basics—they understand what admissions committees are really looking for. They should also be aware of evolving trends in medical school admissions, from diversity considerations to changing MCAT policies. As Stanford’s Iris Gibbs noted in a past U.S. News interview, consultants often “keep abreast of trends”—something that can give you a critical edge.

What’s Your Success Rate?

A good admissions consultant should be able to back up their claims with data. Ask for specifics like:

The percentage of clients who gained admission to at least one medical school
The number of clients accepted into top-tier or specific programs
How many clients share a similar profile to yours

Pay attention to how the consultant answers. Are they only highlighting star students, or are they transparent about overall outcomes? A credible consultant will speak openly about both successes and challenges—and explain how they’ve helped students improve along the way.

Have You Worked With Students Like Me?

Every applicant brings a different story, and the best consultant is one who understands how to tailor your narrative. Ask:

Have you supported traditional applicants with lower MCAT or GPA scores?
Have you helped non-traditional applicants, such as career-changers or reapplicants?
What about students from underrepresented backgrounds?

Your story is unique—whether you’re a first-gen student, a military veteran, or someone who took a gap year to explore healthcare abroad. Your consultant should be able to guide you in highlighting your distinct strengths and forming a cohesive, compelling narrative.

What Services Are Included in Your Packages?

Medical school applications are expensive. Before hiring a consultant, be crystal clear on what you’re paying for. Ask for:

A detailed list of services (e.g., personal statement help, secondary essay reviews, interview coaching)
The number of editing rounds included
How much one-on-one time you’ll receive
The turnaround time for feedback

Don’t hesitate to ask about pricing upfront. Many applicants spend over $3,000 on the application process—not including travel or consultant fees. Clarity and transparency from the start will prevent misunderstandings later on.

How Are You Addressing Post-COVID Admissions Changes?

The medical school admissions process continues to evolve in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. You’ll want a consultant who is fully informed about:

Virtual interview expectations and preparation
Changes to shadowing or clinical experience requirements
Updates to MCAT test center availability
Trends in applicant volume and competitiveness

Your consultant should not only know the current landscape but also help you strategically adapt your application to reflect the lessons and realities of this unique time in healthcare.

Final Thoughts: Choose Your Consultant Wisely

A great medical school admissions consultant can help amplify your strengths, clarify your story, and elevate your application—but only if they’re the right fit for your needs.

Use the five questions above to vet potential consultants carefully. And remember, while expert support can be transformative, your story and preparation matter most.

If you’re looking for personalized guidance, Go Elective’s admissions advisors work exclusively with pre-med, nursing, PA, and pre-health students. From helping you choose the right schools to polishing your secondaries and preparing for interviews, we’re here to support your success.

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