Application Process

How to apply to Ohio State's Medical Scientist Training Program 

Admission to the MSTP can be made through an application process initiated through the American Medical College Applications Service (AMCAS). To apply to the program, you should designate The Ohio State University on the electronic AMCAS application and select “Combined Medical Degree/PhD.” Later on, you will receive an email from the College of Medicine directing you to the web-based secondary application that also serves as your application to the MSTP and to graduate school. Use this helpful tool (external link) on the AAMC website to learn more.

To alleviate the financial burden of applying to multiple PhD programs, the MSTP department will manually build your graduate school application to include both PhD programs you are interested in. 

Learn about MSTP application requirements  

Application deadlines

AMCAS applications will be accepted starting June 1 until Nov. 1 of the year prior to anticipated matriculation. No applications are accepted by AMCAS after Nov. 1. The Ohio State University secondary application forms are due 30 days after receipt of the AMCAS application or no later than the deadline outlined on the admission requirements. Early application is strongly encouraged, as interview slots fill up quickly.

Apply to Ohio State's MSTP via AMCAS 

Selection process

An earned cumulative grade-point average (GPA) equivalent of at least 3.0 out of 4.0 in all previous undergraduate college-level course work is required by the Ohio State Graduate School, but considerably higher scores will be required to gain admission to the MSTP. Students should apply to be admitted for the summer quarter. In rare circumstances, exceptions can be made. 

A student is selected based on:

• Previous academic record
• Research experience
• Biographical statement that explains why the applicant wants to pursue a combined MD/PhD
• Four letters of recommendation, with at least two letters which should address the applicant’s previous research experience and potential for a research career
• MCAT scores
• Personal interview

Although all of these criteria are considered, particular emphasis is placed on research experience. 

As is expected of all applicants to the College of Medicine, these individuals must possess the personal attributes of self-motivation, compassion, integrity and interpersonal skills as well as the intellectual, physical and emotional capacities to master the medical curriculum. Candidates must possess high ethical standards, especially honesty and concern for others. Candidates must be free of substance abuse, addictions and violent behaviors, and must possess the skills required to practice direct patient care.