What should I do if I can't get into medical school?

266 Answers Moderated by Polly Letsch, LCSW Updated: Sep 9, 2022

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Iauren on Apr 8, 2016

There's not a "what if I can't" since those words are stopping you from thinking you can achieve your goal. 
"If you can dream it, you can achieve it"

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hopedreamlove on Jan 12, 2020

Don’t give up on your dreams. Yes, maybe you didn’t get into medical school, but their might be other opportunities in the medical field that you might find you are really passionate about. And, you can apply again if you really want to. Or, you might decide that maybe you don’t want to go into the medical field, and you can find something else you love. It’s okay to not succeed the first time, or the second, time, or even the third time. Keep trying until you succeed. Whatever you want to do, don’t give up on your dreams. 

compassionateBlanket92 on Mar 2, 2016

Follow a completely different path! Choosing a similar course will painfully remind you of "what could have been" if you had succeeded in medicine. Take some time to reflect and get to know yourself. Accept your unsuccessful attempt and grow by exploring a new path whereto can find happiness.

carefreeHeart57 on Mar 1, 2018

Re-apply. It shows dedication to the profession and determination at achieving your goals. But don't just automatically re-apply!  Ask for an application review from your undergrad pre-professional committee or from a medical school that rejected you. Many will do it free of charge. Then make a plan to fix any deficiencies identified. 

moonfly94 on Mar 5, 2016

Med school is hard to get into, there's no doubt about that... I see a couple of options - either find something else that you think you'd be happy doing, or keep trying!  Sometimes a year out and some life experience gives you that edge that you need to stand out :) Best of luck with whatever you decide to do :)

Textingpals on Oct 30, 2020

As an aspiring student of medical school myself, I would suggest you to have a safety net before you pursue such a competitive career. Have a just-in-case option in you mind. Do not ever think that getting into medical school is everything or that you aren't good enough if you do not. Life is not all about getting into schools or getting a degree. It's much more than that. Coming back to the topic, have two careers in mind. Something you are interested it except medicines, preferably a safer one. Have a proper career plan extending into future. If things go wrong, you can always turn to that. Not only would you have a secured career you are interested in, you would have a whole life to spend on things you love. 

LouisaCT on Feb 24, 2016

Hi, I know it can be scary getting into programs, but first remember - there are other areas related to medicine that you might be just as happy in or enjoy contributing too. What about pharmacy, medical research, biology, being an EMT, etc? It doesn't mean you can't work in the medical field, it just may take a different approach. 
if you don't get in it's important to remind yourself that you may just be needed in another field of work, and keep your options open and your mind set to help people - in any way. Brainstorming is wonderful. Write down all the things you've done in your life (volunteer, jobs, etc) you've enjoyed, and why. Write down all the careers you possibly could see yourself in. Write down your values and life dreams - what's important to you and where do you see other aspects of your life headed? 
From there, start crossing things out. Compare your lists and think if there are limitations that rule some ideas out. Talk to professionals in the fields about what their jobs actually look like. Expose yourself to different angles of school and work, and be open to new possibilities and opportunities. 
Lastly, take time and take care of yourself. You don't have to have it all sorted out right now. Take the time you need to find what else you really want. If it is med school - try again. Don't give up because of one set-back if you know you're meant to be there. 

Best of luck and lots of care being sent your way. 

Fenixashes37 on Feb 13, 2016

Go somewhere else besides medical school. There's everything for everyone. Maybe medical school not for you. 

Anonymous on Apr 8, 2016

Well the best option is to try harder the next time. Work and address the areas which went amiss the last time. However, it should also be made that not getting into medical school isn't the end of the world. Careers can grow and generate from everywhere. 

WarmPenguinHugs on Dec 8, 2016

When applying for medical school have a look at other courses which allow entry at a later stage (I. E. Biomedical science). Often the entry requirements aren't as high and will allow a swap over into medicine should it be desired. The qualities sought to be a doctor are found in other professions such as paramedics, nursing, care home workers etc, so there are many avenues to go down to help people 