How to Write a Medical School Thank You Letter (Templates Included)

After your medical school interview, your next step should be writing a thoughtful thank you note. While it may seem optional, sending a thank you letter can help you stand out in a competitive applicant pool. It’s a simple gesture that reflects your professionalism and enthusiasm.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to write a polished, effective thank you letter post-interview.

Why Send a Thank You Letter After a Medical School Interview?

A well-crafted thank you letter serves several important purposes:

• Reaffirms your interest in the program
• Demonstrates gratitude and professionalism
• Gives you a chance to address anything you missed during the interview
• Reinforces your strengths as a candidate

Since many applicants send thank you notes, not sending one could be seen as a red flag. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who are courteous and thoughtful.

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When Should You Send It?

The ideal time frame is within 24–48 hours of your interview. This ensures the note arrives while the conversation is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind. If you're mailing a handwritten letter, account for delivery time or send an email if you're past the window.

Should You Email or Handwrite It?

Email

• Fast and reliable
• Guarantees delivery
• Recommended if you're close to a decision deadline

Handwritten Note

• More personal
• Stands out on a desk
• Ideal if your handwriting is legible and you have the time to mail it

Either is acceptable. What matters most is sending it.

How Long Should a Thank You Note Be?

Keep your note concise — around 100 to 200 words. Aim for two short paragraphs that are polite, personalized, and professional.

How to Structure a Thank You Letter

Greeting

Use a formal salutation:

Dear Dr. [Last Name],

First Paragraph: Express Gratitude

Mention the specific date of your interview and thank the interviewer for their time. Reaffirm your interest in the school and program.

Second Paragraph: Add a Personal Touch

Mention a highlight from your conversation or something that impressed you about the school. If applicable, briefly address a point you didn’t get to share during the interview.

Final Line

Offer to provide additional information and reiterate your enthusiasm.

Close Formally

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Sample Thank You Note (Email Format)

Subject: Thank You for the Interview

Dear Dr. Morgan,

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me on Monday regarding my application to the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. I appreciated our conversation about your team’s global health initiatives, which align closely with my long-term goals.

I especially enjoyed learning about the hands-on opportunities available during the first year. Our discussion reinforced my desire to attend UCSD, and I would be thrilled to contribute to such an inspiring academic environment.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything more I can provide. Thank you again for the opportunity.

Sincerely,
Mia Patel

Tips to Make Your Thank You Letter Stand Out

• Mention a specific moment from your interview
• Reaffirm your interest in the program and school
• Keep the tone warm and professional
• Avoid typos or grammatical errors — proofread twice
• Use the correct title and spelling of the interviewer’s name

What If You Interviewed with Multiple People?

If you interviewed with several people, you can:

• Send individual thank you notes if you remember specific interactions
• Or send one group thank you letter addressed to the Office of Admissions, especially for MMI-style interviews

What to Expect After Sending Your Note

After your thank you note, wait patiently. The admissions timeline varies by school. You may be accepted, waitlisted, or asked for further documentation. If you’re waitlisted, consider sending a letter of intent to your top-choice school.

Final Thoughts

Sending a thank you note isn’t just a courtesy — it’s a powerful tool in the medical school admissions process. It shows your professionalism, gratitude, and continued interest. Whether your interview went flawlessly or had a few hiccups, a strong thank you letter can only help your case.

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Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: May 11, 2025