How to Get Into Emory University School of Medicine: Requirements, Acceptance Rate, and Tips

Emory University School of Medicine is a nationally recognized leader in training physicians who combine clinical excellence with compassionate care. Known for its rigorous academics, strong research focus, and commitment to community health, Emory prepares graduates to lead in medicine, public health, and beyond.

If you’re considering applying, this guide covers everything you need to know: admissions requirements, GPA and MCAT expectations, acceptance rates, deadlines, and tips to help you stand out.

Looking for a premed internship or medical elective abroad? Inquire here.

Programs at Emory School of Medicine

Emory offers multiple pathways to earn your MD degree, including several dual-degree programs that allow you to pursue specialized interests:

• Doctor of Medicine (MD): Traditional four-year medical program.
• MD/PhD: For students pursuing careers as physician-scientists.
• MD/MA in Bioethics: Combines medical training with advanced study in ethics.
• MD/MPH: Trains future doctors in public health leadership.
• MD/MBA: Prepares students for roles in healthcare administration.
• MD/MSCR: Provides training in clinical and translational research.

These programs give Emory students the opportunity to customize their training and prepare for diverse career paths.

Emory School of Medicine Admissions Statistics

• Number of Applicants: 12,880
• Interviewees: 669
• Incoming Class Size: ~150
• Acceptance Rate: 1.2%
• Average GPA: 3.83
• Average MCAT: 516

With fewer than 2 in 100 applicants securing a spot, Emory is highly competitive. Strong academics and meaningful extracurriculars are key to standing out.

Course Requirements

Applicants must complete at least 90 semester hours from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution (a bachelor’s degree is strongly preferred). Required coursework includes:

• 8 hours of physical science (with lab)
• 8 hours of biology (with lab)
• 8 hours of chemistry (with lab)
• 6 hours of English
• 18 hours of humanities/social sciences

Students from all majors are welcome, as long as these prerequisites are completed. Non-science majors can bring unique perspectives that enrich their applications.

GPA and MCAT Requirements

• Average GPA of admitted students: 3.83
• Average MCAT: 516
• Minimum required MCAT section score: 124 in each section
• Minimum overall MCAT for consideration: 502
• Maximum attempts allowed: 3

Successful applicants typically exceed the minimums, often demonstrating both academic strength and consistent upward trends in their coursework.

Application Components

Your Emory medical school application must include:

• AMCAS Primary Application (with personal statement and activities section)
• Letters of Recommendation (either a committee packet or three individual letters, including two from science faculty)
• Secondary Application and Essays
• MCAT scores (submitted by October of the application year)

Emory Secondary Essays

Applicants invited to complete Emory’s secondary application must respond to several prompts (usually 200 words each). Topics include:

• Curriculum plans for the current year
• Health-related experiences
• Reasons for applying to Emory
• Service to underserved communities
• Updates since the primary application

Strong essays are concise, specific, and show alignment with Emory’s mission of advancing health and serving diverse populations.

Interview Format

Roughly 5% of applicants are invited to interview. Emory’s interviews are conducted virtually and typically include:

• One group interview
• One one-on-one faculty interview

Interviews assess communication skills, maturity, critical thinking, compassion, and alignment with Emory’s mission.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Emory’s MD tuition is approximately $55,700 per year, with the total cost of attendance estimated at $57,000 annually (not including living expenses).

Average debt for Emory medical graduates is around $170,000, which is below the national average of ~$244,000.

Scholarships include:

• Woodruff Fellowships: 

Full tuition + stipend for four years (based on leadership, character, and academic excellence).

• Dr. G. Keith Pilling Scholarship: 

Full tuition every four years.

• Loan Forgiveness Program: 

Up to $160,000 for students pursuing careers in primary care in Georgia.

External scholarships and service-based awards can also help reduce costs.

Tips for Strengthening Your Application

#1. Excel academically: 

Aim for GPA and MCAT scores at or above Emory’s averages.

#2. Pursue meaningful clinical experience: 

Hands-on exposure to patients is highly valued. Consider clinical internships abroad through Go Elective to gain direct patient care experience in diverse healthcare systems.

#3. Show leadership and service: 

Volunteer in underserved communities, demonstrating alignment with Emory’s mission.

#4. Build strong faculty relationships: 

Secure letters of recommendation that highlight your growth, intellectual ability, and character.

#5. Prepare thoroughly for interviews: 

Be ready to discuss ethical scenarios, teamwork, and your long-term goals in medicine.

Final Thoughts

Emory University School of Medicine is an excellent choice for students who want to combine top-tier medical education with opportunities in research, leadership, and community service. Its rigorous admissions process ensures that those admitted are well-prepared to thrive in both clinical and academic medicine.

If you’re aiming for Emory, start preparing early. Strong academics, a well-rounded application, and meaningful experiences in patient care will help you stand out. For students seeking international exposure and hands-on training before medical school, Go Elective offers healthcare internships and electives abroad that can strengthen your application and prepare you for success.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Med Schools,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 13, 2025