How to Get Into Brown Medical School: Requirements, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Tips

Brown University’s Warren Alpert Medical School is one of the most selective institutions in the U.S., blending academic rigor with innovation. If your goal is to become a physician who thrives in both present-day practice and future advancements, understanding Brown’s admissions process is essential.

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Brown Medical School Acceptance Rate

As part of the Ivy League, Brown sets the bar high. The acceptance rate hovers around 1.8%, making it one of the most competitive programs nationwide. This figure reflects the ratio of matriculants and deferred students compared to verified applications. In other words, only a small fraction of applicants make it through, and nearly 98% are turned away.

Admissions Statistics at a Glance

• Average GPA: 3.85
• Average MCAT: 517.2
• Applicants: 8,315+ annually
• Acceptance Rate: 1.8%
  
  

GPA Expectations

While the minimum cumulative GPA required is 3.0, applicants realistically need to be in the 3.8+ range to be competitive. Brown favors students who challenge themselves academically and succeed in rigorous science courses.

MCAT Requirements

The average admitted student scores around 517, placing them in the top tier of test-takers. Because the MCAT is such a critical piece of the application, many students spend months preparing and, when necessary, retake the exam to hit this target.

Course Prerequisites

Brown requires a strong science foundation along with demonstrated writing skills. Recommended coursework includes:

• Biology: two courses in cell biology and genetics (with labs encouraged)
• Chemistry: general, organic, and biochemistry courses
• Physics: a two-course sequence covering mechanics, electricity, optics, and radiation
• Quantitative reasoning: calculus or statistics (biostatistics preferred)
• Writing-intensive coursework: in fields such as English, history, or philosophy
  
  

Technical Standards

Beyond academics, Brown emphasizes core physician competencies such as:

• Observation and analysis of clinical and laboratory data
• Strong communication skills
• Motor abilities for diagnostic and lab work
• Intellectual flexibility and quantitative reasoning
• Emotional maturity and professional judgment
  
  

Application Materials and Deadlines

Applicants must submit:

• Official transcripts
• MCAT scores
• Letters of recommendation (committee letter or at least three individual references)
• Secondary application essays
  
  

Timeline:

• July: Application opens
• September: Recommended last MCAT date
• Early October: Application deadline
• Early November: Secondary materials due
• Sept–Feb: Interviews conducted
  
  

Secondary Essays

Brown requires applicants to complete essays on academic activities, personal attributes, and adaptability. Strong essays highlight both achievements and alignment with Brown’s mission while staying concise and authentic.

The Interview

Invited candidates will complete two virtual interviews with faculty, staff, or students. These interviews are both evaluative and informative, offering applicants a chance to demonstrate motivation for medicine, alignment with Brown’s culture, and familiarity with its curriculum.

What Brown Looks For in Applicants

• Academic excellence: High GPAs and MCAT scores
• Research involvement: Nearly 92% of students participate in research during their MD program
• Leadership qualities: Initiative and responsibility in clubs, service, or personal projects
• Clinical experience: Substantial patient-facing hours that reflect commitment to medicine
• Global perspective: Brown values applicants who demonstrate cultural competence and humanitarian engagement, including experience in international healthcare settings. Programs like Go Elective’s global health internships allow pre-med students to gain hands-on exposure abroad while working alongside physicians in Kenya or Tanzania.
  
  

Cost of Attendance

Brown’s tuition is approximately $73,150 per year, with total annual costs ranging between $93,000–$109,000 once housing, fees, and living expenses are included. Financial aid is available through scholarships, grants, and donor support.

FAQs: Brown Medical School

#1. Is it hard to get in? 

Yes—only about 1.8% of applicants are admitted.

#2. What GPA should I aim for? 

Around 3.8 or higher.

#3. What is the average MCAT? 

About 517.2.

#4. Does Brown conduct interviews? 

Yes, interviews take place between September and February.

#5. Where is it located? 

Providence, Rhode Island.

Final Thoughts

Brown Medical School offers a world-class education, but entry is reserved for students who combine academic strength, strong clinical exposure, and meaningful life experiences. By balancing high test scores with authentic extracurricular involvement, whether through research, leadership, or global clinical internships, you can position yourself to stand out in one of the most competitive applicant pools in the country.

Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Med Schools,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 13, 2025