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Application Timeline

Planning Ahead for a Successful Application Cycle

Applying to health professions programs is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and time management. While exact dates vary by profession and application service, most students begin preparing 12 to 18 months before they plan to enter professional school. Below is a general timeline to help guide your preparation and keep you on track. 

Explore and Prepare 

  • Reflect on your readiness to apply—academically, professionally, and personally. 
  • Meet with a pre-health advisor to review your coursework, experiences, and goals. 
  • Research schools and programs to understand admissions requirements and fit. 
  • Start preparing for entrance exams (MCAT, DAT, GRE, etc.)—consider study plans, prep courses, and registration timelines. 
  • Continue gaining clinical, research, and service experience. 

Build Your Application 

  • Take your entrance exam or schedule it for early summer. 
  • Request letters of recommendation and provide your recommenders with materials and deadlines. 
  • Begin drafting your personal statement and other written components. 
  • Attend workshops or advising sessions on personal statements, school selection, and application strategy. 
  • Finalize your list of schools and understand their specific requirements. 

Submit Primary Applications 

  • Most centralized application services open in May or early June (e.g., AMCAS, AACOMAS, AADSAS, CASPA). 
  • Submit your primary application as early as possible—early submission can improve your chances of receiving interviews. 
  • Ensure transcripts and letters of recommendation are submitted according to each service’s guidelines. 
  • Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any requests for additional information. 

Secondary Applications and Interview Prep 

  • Respond to secondary applications quickly—ideally within two weeks of receiving them. 
  • Continue gaining experience and updating your resume or activities list. 
  • Begin preparing for interviews: attend mock interview sessions, review common questions, and practice articulating your story. 
  • Travel for interviews or participate in virtual interview days. 

Decisions and Next Steps 

  • Receive admissions decisions—some programs offer rolling admissions, while others notify in batches. 
  • If accepted, review financial aid packages, submit deposits, and complete matriculation requirements. 
  • If waitlisted, stay in contact with schools and provide updates as needed. 
  • If not accepted, meet with a pre-health advisor to discuss reapplication strategies or alternative pathways. 

General Opening Dates by Application Service

  • AMCAS (MD programs): Opens in May, submission begins in early June 
  • AACOMAS (DO programs): Application opens for data entry in May. Submissions begin in early June. 
  • AACPMAS (Podiatry programs): Application opens for data entry and submission in early August. 
  • AADSAS (Dental programs): Application opens for data entry in May. Submissions begin in early June. 
  • CASPA (Physician Assistant programs): Application opens for data entry and submission in April. 
  • OptomCAS (Optometry programs): Application opens for data entry and submission in late June or early July. 
  • OTCAS (Occupational Therapy programs): Application opens for data entry and submission in mid-July. 
  • PharmCAS (Pharmacy programs): Application opens for data entry and submission in late June or early July. 
  • PTCAS (Physical Therapy programs): Application opens for data entry and submission in mid-June. 
  • VMCAS (Veterinary programs): Application opens for data entry in January. Submissions begin in early May. 
  • TMDSAS (Texas medical, dental, and vet schools): Application opens for data entry on May 1st. Submission begin on May 15th. 

*Always check the official website of each application service for exact dates and deadlines. 

Tips for Staying on Track During the Application Process

Staying organized and proactive throughout the application cycle is key to reducing stress and submitting a strong, timely application. Here are some strategies to help you stay on top of deadlines, requirements, and communication: 

  • Use a Calendar or Application Tracker
    Create a personalized timeline using a digital calendar, spreadsheet, or application tracking tool. Include key dates such as application openings, exam registration deadlines, transcript requests, and interview invitations. Set reminders to follow up on letters of recommendation and secondary applications. 
  • Organize Materials by School 
    Set up folders—digital or physical—for each program you’re applying to. Include school-specific requirements, essay prompts, correspondence, and notes from your research. This makes it easier to tailor your materials and respond quickly to requests from each institution. 
  • Check Your Email Daily 
    Application services and schools will communicate primarily via email. Make a habit of checking your inbox regularly and responding promptly to any requests for information, interview invitations, or updates. Consider creating a professional email address dedicated to your applications to keep everything in one place. 
  • Use Campus Resources 
    Don’t go through the process alone:
    • Pre-Health Office can help with strategy, timelines, and school selection.
    • Writing Center offers support for personal statements and essays. 
    • Career Services can assist with resumes, interview prep, and finding gap year opportunities. Take advantage of workshops, drop-in hours, and advising appointments. 
  • Stay Flexible and Positive
    The application process can be unpredictable. Be prepared to adjust your plans, respond to unexpected delays, and stay focused on your long-term goals. Keep a growth mindset and seek support when needed. 

Build Your Foundation
for a Health Career

Office of Pre-Health Advising
Engineering Bldg. RM# 125
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Kia Hart
(313) 993-1928
hartkl@udmercy.edu  

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