Do Medical Schools Look At High School Grades? – Save Our Schools March

Getting into medical school is fiercely competitive, with over 50,000 applicants vying for around 21,000 first-year seats in 2021 (AAMC). For aspiring doctors, a common question is: do medical schools really consider your high school academics when deciding who to admit? The answer is yes, high school grades and coursework are meaningful factors in the medical school admissions process. However, they are just one piece of a holistic review that weighs many elements of a candidate‘s journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll delve into why high school transcripts hold weight, how they‘re evaluated, strategies to overcome a poor high school record, which courses matter most, and tips to help high schoolers set their sights on medical school.

Why Medical Schools Review High School Academics

High school grades may seem far in the past, but here is why admissions committees still devote attention to this part of an applicant‘s academic record:

Demonstrates Key Academic Abilities and Foundational Knowledge

Performance in high school provides critical insights into a student‘s academic skills, work ethic, and ability to excel in challenging coursework—traits valuable for medical school success. Students who achieve high grades demonstrate strong study habits, perseverance, and retention of scientific foundations critical in medical curricula.

According to a study by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), students who performed well in high school tend to achieve higher scores on pre-clinical exams and clinical skills evaluations during medical school. This correlation underscores the importance of early academic performance.

Helps Predict College and MCAT Achievement

Studies show that high school GPA holds predictive power over how well students will perform at the undergraduate level and on the crucial Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). According to data from the AAMC, students with high school GPAs of 3.6 or higher tend to score 505 or above on the MCAT, compared to an average of 497 among students with HS GPAs below 3.6. The higher the high school GPA, the higher students tend to score on the MCAT.

Demonstrates Long-Term Commitment to Academic Excellence

Consistently strong academic performance throughout high school demonstrates a student‘s long-standing commitment to learning and achievement. Medical schools value applicants who exhibit dedication, self-motivation, time management skills, and grit to excel over an extended period. While not fully determinative, a strong high school record can indicate an applicant‘s potential for sustained success in medical school and beyond.

How Much Does High School GPA Matter for Medical School Admissions?

Within the med school admissions process, several key considerations influence how high school grades are evaluated:

Weighted More Heavily for Recent Graduates

For applicants who recently graduated high school, grades and coursework on the high school transcript tend to carry more weight since they represent the most recent academic history available. According to survey data from the AAMC, 61% of med schools consider high school GPA "very important" for applicants who graduated high school within the past 5 years.

One Component of Holistic Review

While academic metrics like high school and college GPA are crucial, admissions committees take a holistic approach, considering many elements of a candidate‘s profile:

No one factor overrides the others. The aim is evaluating candidates holistically.

Can‘t Undo the Past, But Can Demonstrate Improvement

While it‘s impossible to change grades retroactively, students can demonstrate academic improvement in college despite a poor high school record. Admissions committees appreciate seeing resilience and upward trends. One weak link does not have to define an applicant‘s journey.

Strategies to Overcome a Poor High School Academic Record

Here are effective strategies for mitigating and overcoming a less-than-ideal high school background:

Enroll in a Post-Baccalaureate or Special Masters Program

These structured programs allow students to complete additional undergraduate-level science coursework to demonstrate improved academic capabilities.

Explain Mitigating Circumstances

Use application essays to provide context around obstacles faced in high school, then highlight how you overcame challenges and grew from the experience.

Show an Upward College GPA Trend

Strong college academics, especially in science coursework, helps counterbalance high school weaknesses and build a case for preparedness.

Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters from college professors attesting to your abilities and potential can help offset high school record gaps.

Which High School Classes Matter Most for Medical School

When evaluating applicants, medical schools place special emphasis on performance in:

Core Science and Math Courses

High grades in biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus demonstrate proficiency in scientific foundations needed for medical education. Per AAMC data, 52% of med schools require 1+ years of high school biology, and 32% require 1+ years of calculus.

Honors and AP Level Coursework

Enrollment in advanced honors and AP classes indicates an applicant‘s ability to excel in academically rigorous environments similar to medical school. Success in AP science courses is especially valued.

Social Science Electives

Coursework in psychology and sociology provides insights into social determinants of health and human behavior—critical knowledge for patient care.

Tips for High School Students Setting Their Sights on Medical School

Here is expert-recommended advice to help high schoolers lay the groundwork for medical school success:

Prioritize Science and Math Courses

Ace biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus to demonstrate proficiency in medical school foundation areas. Limit any weaknesses here.

Enroll in Honors and AP Classes

Seek out the most advanced courses offered in the sciences, math, English, and social sciences. Rising to academic challenges shows grit.

Develop Studious Habits and Time Management Skills

Build a strong work ethic. Make time for academics, extracurriculars, and rest. These skills are vital down the road.

Get Involved in Activities that Demonstrate Compassion

Pursue volunteer work, community service, health-related research, or leadership roles that exhibit your well-roundedness.

Build Relationships With Teachers for Recommendations

Make meaningful connections with instructors who can speak first-hand about your abilities later on.

The Key is Demonstrating Continuous Growth and Academic Excellence

Getting into medical school is no easy feat, so admissions committees carefully consider an applicant‘s high school record to gauge foundational scientific knowledge, academic capabilities, and future potential. While just one factor among many, high school academics do influence admissions prospects. Success requires demonstrating sustained achievement across the educational journey. With resilience and commitment, you can achieve your medical school dreams despite early obstacles along the way.