Medical Schools in Colorado: Admissions, Requirements, and Acceptance Rates

Colorado may be known for its mountains and growing population, but when it comes to medical schools, the state has just two options. Both institutions offer distinct experiences with unique curricula, admissions processes, and career pathways for future physicians.

This guide breaks down admissions data, requirements, and tips for applying to medical schools in Colorado.

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

List of Colorado Medical Schools

There are two medical schools in Colorado: one allopathic (MD) and one osteopathic (DO).

University of Colorado School of Medicine (UCSOM)

Located at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, UCSOM is one of the top-ranked programs in the nation. Its acceptance rate is 2.8%, making it highly competitive.

The school’s mission emphasizes excellence in education, research, patient care, and community service. UCSOM is particularly well regarded for its focus on primary care, where it ranks among the top 10 nationally.

Admissions Timeline

• AMCAS opens: Late May
• Secondary application released: Mid-July
• Interview season: September–March
• Rolling admissions offers: Begin mid-October
• AMCAS primary deadline: Mid-October
• Secondary deadline: Late November
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Strong foundation in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, math/statistics, and physics
• Courses in social sciences, communication, and humanities recommended
• Median GPA: 3.7
• Median MCAT: 517
• Letters of recommendation: 3–5, ideally from faculty, supervisors, or physicians
  
  

Secondary Application

• Required essay (500 words) on UCSOM’s pillars of Leadership, Curiosity, and Commitment
• CASPer and Duet assessments
• Optional essays for specific branch campuses or rural programs
• $100 application fee
  
  

Interview

UCSOM uses a holistic review process, combining traditional interviews, small group interviews, and group activities to assess interpersonal and intrapersonal skills.

Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine (RVUCOM)

Located in Parker, RVUCOM is a private, for-profit osteopathic school with an acceptance rate of 7.9%. The school’s mission is to train competent and compassionate DO physicians through service, research, and innovative education.

Admissions Timeline

• AACOMAS application deadline: Mid-March
• Processing: March–April
• Interviews: Scheduled throughout cycle
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA of 3.0, with competitive applicants averaging 3.6
• Coursework required:
• Biology (12 credits with lab)
• General Chemistry (8 credits with lab)
• Organic Chemistry (8 credits with lab)
• Physics (8 credits with lab)
• Biochemistry (3 credits)
• English/Literature (6 credits)
• Social/Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)
• Average GPA: 3.54
• Average MCAT: 504
• Letters of recommendation: Three required (academic, healthcare provider, and one additional source)

Interview

RVUCOM conducts panel interviews, typically 35 minutes with two faculty members. CASPer is not required.

Tips for Getting Into Colorado Medical Schools

• Focus on holistic preparation: Both UCSOM and RVUCOM value experiences beyond grades. Volunteering, research, and patient-centered clinical exposure make applicants stand out.
• Build clinical experience early: Shadowing, clinical volunteering, or internships are critical. Programs like Go Elective’s pre-med internships abroad provide meaningful hands-on exposure.
• Tailor your essays: Both schools look for authenticity. Highlight your commitment to service, leadership, and patient care.
• Get to know current students: Talking to enrolled students can help you understand the school culture and ensure a good fit.
  
  

FAQs: Colorado Medical Schools

#1. How many medical schools are in Colorado?

There are two: UCSOM (MD) and RVUCOM (DO).

#2. Does UCSOM require CASPer?

Yes, UCSOM requires CASPer and Duet as part of the secondary application.

#3. Is Rocky Vista a good medical school?

Yes. While unranked, RVUCOM provides a strong DO education with a focus on compassionate, service-driven physicians.

#4. What is the acceptance rate for Colorado medical schools?

UCSOM admits about 2.8% of applicants, while RVUCOM accepts about 7.9%.

#5. Which Colorado school is the best for medicine?

For research and primary care rankings, UCSOM is considered the stronger program. However, RVUCOM is an excellent choice for students pursuing osteopathic medicine.

Final Thoughts

Though Colorado only has two medical schools, both provide excellent pathways into medicine. The University of Colorado School of Medicine offers a nationally ranked MD program with strong research and primary care tracks, while RVUCOM provides an innovative DO program with a focus on service and lifelong learning.

To maximize your chances of acceptance, combine a strong GPA and MCAT with meaningful clinical exposure and authentic, mission-aligned essays. For hands-on experience that strengthens your application, explore Go Elective’s medical electives abroad.

Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives, Med Schools,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 13, 2025