California

If you look at the data for all applicants and matriculants for California MD medical schools in the 2020-2021 cycle, you’ll find the following statistics: Total applicants: 87,431. Total accepted matriculants: 1,520. Percent accepted: 1.7%. Those numbers are pretty daunting, so it’s wise for in-state and especially out-of-state applicants to diversify their school lists beyond California medical schools. But what do these elite 1.7% of accepted candidates look like? Who are they and what makes them so special?

Beautiful weather, sunny beaches, great food, vibrant culture - who wouldn’t want to spend 4+ years living and training in California? Whether you’re an in-state applicant who’s desperate to say close to home or an out-of-state applicant looking for a new adventure during medical school, the 16 California medical schools draw a lot of attention and receive a bevy of applicants every year. So, how exactly do you get into a California medical school? Well, it’s not that simple of an answer, mainly because the 16 schools are so different. But we’re here to offer a general breakdown of what it takes to get into a California medical school, with relevant data and key information about each institution!