Entrance Requirements
School of Podiatric Medicine Entrance Requirements
The School of Podiatric Medicine uses a rolling admissions process to select qualified candidates. Applications are reviewed at regular intervals and candidates are selected for interviews throughout the admissions cycle.
The School of Podiatric Medicine uses a competitive admissions process that considers multiple criteria in the selection of a diverse group of highly qualified candidates. To be considered for admission into the School of Podiatric Medicine, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants must have completed a minimum of three years and 90 semester hours of college-level semester hours (credits) at an accredited institution. A bachelor’s degree is recommended.
Applicants must have completed the following prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better:
- Biology (8 semester hours)
- General Chemistry or Inorganic Chemistry (8 semester hours)
- Organic Chemistry (8 semester hours, Biochemistry may be substituted for Organic Chemistry II)
- Physics (8 semester hours)
- English (6-8 semester hours)
Prerequisite sciences courses must include a laboratory experience, if applicable. Prospective applicants should consider taking courses, such as biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, human anatomy, and behavioral science.
Applicants must submit official Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores. MCAT scores older than three years are not acceptable. The average MCAT score of applicants matriculating into podiatric medical schools is 495. In certain circumstances, an Academic Index Score (AIS) may be used as a screening tool. The AIS is calculated using either the ACT and undergraduate GPA, SAT, and undergraduate GPA, or using both the ACT, SAT, and undergraduate GPA. If used, the AIS will be calculated from official documents submitted directly to LECOM. The AIS is considered only in circumstances where an applicant was unable to take the MCAT due to the MCAT schedule, or when an applicant has a competitive GPA, but a lower MCAT score.
- Applicants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to service through community service or extracurricular activities.
- Applicants are expected to demonstrate motivation for and a commitment to health care as reflected through employment history, volunteer work, or other life experiences.
- Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills necessary to interact with patients and colleagues.
- Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation. One letter coming from a podiatric physician who can discuss the applicant’s exposure to podiatric medicine is suggested, though not mandatory. One letter must be from a science professor, advisory committee, or academic advisor.