How to Get Into Tulane School of Med: Requirements, Acceptance Rate, and Tips

Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans is one of the most competitive medical schools in the United States. Known for its emphasis on academic excellence, clinical training, and community service, Tulane attracts thousands of applicants each year. If you’re considering applying, this guide will walk you through programs offered, admissions data, requirements, and strategies to strengthen your application.

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Tulane Medical School Programs

Tulane offers a wide range of programs to prepare students for careers in medicine, research, and healthcare leadership:

• MD Program – Four-year traditional medical degree.
• MD/MBA – For students interested in healthcare administration or running private practices.
• MD/MPH – Integrates medicine with public health training.
• MD/MS in Bioethics and Medical Humanities – Focused on the ethical and social complexities of healthcare.
• MD/PhD – For aspiring physician-scientists.
• PhD in Biomedical Sciences – Research-based doctorate for those pursuing academic medicine.
• One-Year Master’s Programs – Options include Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, and Pathology.
• Two-Year Master’s Programs – More specialized training such as Biomedical Informatics, Clinical Anatomy, Clinical Research Methods, and Applied Bioinformatics.

Tulane also offers graduate certificates in areas such as clinical research, ethics, sports medicine, and medical humanities, designed for professionals seeking focused training.

Tulane Medical School Acceptance Rate

Admission to Tulane is highly competitive. In a recent cycle, the school received over 13,000 applications, yet admitted only 190 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of about 1.5%. This means fewer than 2 applicants out of 100 secure a place.

Tulane Admission Statistics

• Average GPA: 3.72
• Average MCAT: 512
• Applications (recent cycle): 13,443
• Acceptance Rate: 1.5%

Strong academics are essential, but Tulane also looks closely at personal qualities, service, and clinical experience.

Tulane GPA and MCAT Requirements

• GPA: Successful applicants average around 3.7 or higher. Students with strong science coursework are particularly competitive.
• MCAT: The average admitted score is 512, so applicants should aim for this benchmark or above. Tulane considers the highest score if multiple attempts are submitted, and scores up to three years old are accepted.
  
  

Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit the following:

• Undergraduate degree with strong science preparation. Recommended courses include biology, chemistry, biochemistry, statistics, psychology, sociology, mathematics, and writing.
• MCAT scores meeting or exceeding Tulane’s average.
• Three letters of recommendation, two from science professors and one from a mentor, supervisor, or committee letter.
• Personal statement highlighting motivations, experiences, and goals.
• Secondary essays (see prompts below).
• Optional but encouraged: CASPer test and Duet assessment, which evaluate personal and professional competencies.
  
  

Tulane Secondary Essay Prompts

Applicants complete a set of supplemental essays as part of the secondary application. Prompts typically include:

1. Reasons for interest in Tulane’s School of Medicine.
2. Health disparities in New Orleans and how you would address them.
3. Who knows you best and how they would describe you.
4. Leadership roles you’ve held.
5. Hobbies and interests outside academics.
6. Optional essays on COVID-19 impact and diversity.

Essays are generally limited to 100–150 words, requiring concise and authentic responses.

Tulane Medical School Interview

Tulane invites approximately 600 applicants for interviews each year. The process includes:

• A faculty interview.
• A standardized patient interaction.
• A more informal conversation with a current medical student.

These steps give the admissions committee a holistic view of your communication skills, professionalism, and fit with Tulane’s mission.

Tips for Strengthening Your Application

1. Choose the right courses and major: 

While any major is acceptable, science-based majors with strong GPAs demonstrate readiness for Tulane’s rigorous curriculum.

2. Gain clinical and research experience: 

Tulane values applicants with leadership, service, and hands-on patient exposure. Consider shadowing, volunteering, or internships to stand out.

3. Leverage the diversity essay:

If applicable, share experiences or perspectives that highlight diversity and resilience. Tulane prioritizes building a rich, inclusive learning environment.

If you’re looking to strengthen your clinical background before applying, consider structured opportunities such as Go Elective’s pre-med internships abroad, where you can gain hands-on experience in global health settings.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tulane medical students can expect to pay approximately $25,200 for 30 credit hours, plus additional fees. Financial aid, scholarships, and merit-based awards are available to help offset costs.

Tulane Application Timeline

• June 1: AMCAS application opens
• July: Interview invitations begin
• August 1: Early applications and secondaries due
• September: Interviews begin
• October 1: Early decision notifications
• October 15: Regular acceptances begin
• November 1: Regular secondaries due
• February: Final interview invitations
• March: Final interviews conducted
• August: Classes start

Applying early in the cycle can significantly increase your chances of success.

FAQs About Tulane Medical School

#1. Is Tulane hard to get into?

Yes. With an acceptance rate around 1.5%, Tulane is extremely selective.

#2. Is Tulane a good medical school?

Absolutely. Tulane combines academic rigor, innovative research, and a strong commitment to service.

#3. Does Tulane require the MCAT?

Yes, all applicants must submit MCAT scores.

#4. What is the average GPA of admitted students?

3.72.

#5. Does Tulane require CASPer?

No, but completing it may strengthen your application.

Final Thoughts

Tulane School of Medicine is one of the most competitive medical schools in the U.S. To be successful, applicants must balance strong academics with meaningful experiences in research, leadership, and clinical exposure. By preparing early, crafting thoughtful essays, and pursuing opportunities that showcase your commitment to medicine, you can maximize your chances of admission.

For more ways to strengthen your application, explore Go Elective’s medical internships abroad, which offer hands-on patient care experience, mentorship, and cultural immersion in Kenya and Tanzania.

Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Med Schools,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 13, 2025