• Academic course work in the basic sciences.
• Familiarity through practical experience with laboratory techniques.
• Documented volunteer experience in a hospital or medical setting.
• Veterinary medicine experience with large animals.

For veterinary medicine applicants, schools may require one or more years of experience with different size animals.

• Doctor/Mentor shadowing.

With some variation, there is a basic complement of courses that lead to the bachelor’s degree that is usually required for admission.

• Two semesters of college level English (English 110 or higher)
• Two semesters of major level* biology with laboratory (Biology 105 & 106)
• Two semesters of major level* general chemistry with laboratory (Chemistry 113 & 114)
• Two semesters of major level* organic chemistry with laboratory (Chemistry 251 & 252)
• Two semesters of major level* physics with laboratory (Physics 121 & 122; or 145 & 146)
• Mathematics: Many medical schools require at least two semesters of college level mathematics; most applicants complete a semester or more of calculus. There are several entry points for the math sequence, so plan your sequence with an advisor, keeping in mind your own preparatory background and abilities.

*"Major level" means that the course satisfies the degree requirements of science majors. Survey courses designed for non-science majors are not accepted by most medical schools.

Some schools have additional required or recommended courses, and certain students have unusual academic histories. Therefore, be sure to research the specific course requirements of the schools to which you plan to apply. Medical schools list their specific requirements in the Medical School Admissions Requirements-United States and Canada and dental schools in Admission Requirements-United States and Canadian Dental Schools.