Last Updated on September 30, 2026
Quick answer: Combined BS/MD programs admit high school seniors to both college and a partner medical school at once, reserving a medical school seat for students who meet continuation requirements. Programs typically take six to eight years, and some waive the MCAT. They are highly selective, and Brown’s eight-year PLME is one well-known example.
A Guide to Combined BS MD Programs
You might have had your heart set on becoming a doctor your entire life. If you have already started pursuing extracurricular activities in the medical field such as shadowing doctors and volunteering at hospitals, you might be wondering if there are any options beyond just regular pre-med. This is where combined BS/MD programs come into play.
If you are a solid student, have pushed yourself to earn high scores, and engaged in relevant extracurriculars, you might be a good fit for combined BS MD programs. [1] If you are interested in medicine, know that this is the only career for you, and want to start your medical education early, this is a good path to explore. But it is by no means easy. Very few students receive one of these valuable spots. To help you navigate this path, here is an outline of the options available, the application process, what admissions officers look for, as well as the pros and cons of applying to combined BS MD programs.
What Are Combined BS/MD Programs?
Combined BS MD programs are dual-degree tracks that allow students to receive their bachelor’s degree and then move directly into a partnered medical school for their MD. When you are admitted, you are guaranteed a spot at the medical school as long as you meet program continuation requirements. Some of these highly competitive programs are accelerated and allow students to finish in 6 or 7 years instead of the traditional 8. [2]
Candidates must be solid enough for admission to both the undergraduate program and the medical school. Some universities also offer early assurance programs, where students can apply to medical school during freshman or sophomore year. These programs allow students to secure a medical school spot after beginning college, as long as GPA and course requirements are met.
Colleges and Medical Schools With Combined BS MD Programs
The schools outlined in the table below offer combined BS MD programs to qualified candidates. Many list minimum GPA standards and some still ask for SAT or ACT scores, although test-optional policies are more common now. Some accept international students while others limit admission to U.S. citizens or residents.
Combined BS MD Programs
| Program | Length (years) | Who can apply | Published minimums |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown University: Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) | 8 | International students may apply | Not published |
| Case Western Reserve University: Pre-Professional Scholars Program in Medicine | 8 (4 + 4) | Citizenship rules not stated on program page | Up to six high school seniors admitted each year; MCAT of 511+ required to continue |
| University of Connecticut: Special Program in Medicine | 8 | International students eligible; no state residency requirement | 3.5 high school GPA |
| University of Rochester: Rochester Early Medical Scholars (REMS) | 8 | U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and asylees only | MCAT waived |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City: B.A./M.D. | 6 | U.S. citizens or permanent residents | 3.0 unweighted core GPA; ACT 24 or SAT 1160 |
| University of Pittsburgh: Guaranteed Admission Program (Medicine) | 8 (4 + 4) | Domestic students at the Pittsburgh campus only | Highest GPA in class; SAT 1500 or ACT 34 |
| Stony Brook University: Scholars for Medicine | 8 | U.S. citizens or permanent residents | Admitted middle 50%: 98–99 GPA; SAT 1490–1590 or ACT 35–36 |
| Drexel University: BA/BS+MD Early Assurance Program | 8 (4 + 4) | U.S. citizens or permanent residents at a U.S. high school | 3.5 weighted GPA; SAT 1420 or ACT 32 |
| Hofstra University: 4+4 BS-BA/MD (Zucker School of Medicine) | 8 (4 + 4) | U.S. citizens or permanent residents | 3.7 GPA; SAT 1410 or ACT 32; top 10% of class |
| Rutgers SAS-Newark: BA/MD (New Jersey Medical School) | 7 | U.S. citizens or permanent residents | SAT 1400 or ACT 32 |
| Saint Louis University: Medical Scholars Program | 8 (4 + 4) | Citizenship rules not stated on program page | Only As and Bs in high school math and science |
| University of Illinois Chicago: GPPA Medical Scholars | Bachelor's (at least 3 years) + MD | Illinois residents who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents | MCAT at the prior class average |
| University of Cincinnati: Connections Dual Admissions | 8 (4 + 4) | U.S. citizens or permanent residents | ACT 27 or SAT 1270 |
| University of New Mexico: Combined BA/MD | 8 (4 + 4) | Seniors graduating from a New Mexico high school | Not published |
| University of South Alabama: Early Acceptance Program (Medicine) | Bachelor's + MD | U.S. citizens or permanent residents; priority to Alabama residents | 3.5 GPA; ACT 27 or SAT 1260 (Alabama), ACT 30 or SAT 1360 (out of state) |
| Virginia Commonwealth University: Guaranteed Admission Program for Medicine | 8 | Citizenship rules not stated on program page | MCAT of 508+ required to continue |
Program Expectations
Although combined BS MD programs guarantee you a spot at the partnered medical school, admission is contingent upon your performance in college. Most require students to maintain a GPA of 3.5 to 3.7. Some still require the MCAT for continuation, sometimes with a minimum score, while others waive it, so check each program’s current policy. Students must take prerequisite courses and continue to show high achievement.
The BS MD Application Process
Applications are more complex than standard undergraduate admissions. In addition to the Common App essays and school-specific supplements, combined BS MD programs typically require extra essays about your motivation for medicine, your health-related experiences, and why you want that particular school and medical program. Interviews are often part of the process. Programs are looking for students who are making informed and committed choices.
What Admissions Officers Look For
Admissions officers want top academics and evidence of commitment to medicine. Competitive applicants have near-perfect GPAs, solid science preparation, and a track record of advanced coursework. Beyond academics, medical experience is essential. Research, shadowing, and long-term volunteering show dedication. Successful applicants often have a specific area of interest such as pediatrics, oncology, or neuroscience and build extracurriculars around that focus. Officers also look for qualities like empathy, leadership, professionalism, and resilience.
Advice From a Former Admissions Officer
One of InGenius Prep’s Former Admissions Officers, who reviewed applications for Brown’s PLME, noted that solid candidates combine STEM excellence with research, competitions, and a clear understanding of the physician’s role. Programs want applicants who not only excel academically but also show they value working with people and serving communities.
Combined BS MD programs are among the most competitive opportunities in higher education. They offer a direct path to medical school for students who are certain about their career goals and prepared to meet rigorous expectations. If you are ready to take on the challenge, these programs can give you a head start on your path to becoming a physician. [3]
Your Path to a BS MD Program
If you are considering combined BS MD programs, our team at InGenius Prep can help you assess your readiness, improve your application, and highlight the experiences that matter most.
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