UC Riverside School Of Medicine Average MCAT

Learn more about UC Riverside School Of Medicine Average MCAT, uc riverside school of medicine requirements, is it hard to get into ucr medical school, uc riverside school of medicine tuition, uc riverside school of medicine mission, uc riverside medical school class profile, uc riverside medical school application deadline & uc riverside school of medicine ranking.

California Medical School Admissions Statistics

We collected the admissions statistics for all California Med Schools. We listed the medical schools in order of U.S. News rankings.

In additional to admissions statistics, our Cracking Med School Admissions team also gave some highlights about each medical school. For detailed school profiles, check out all our school profiles here where we list secondary essay prompts, interview tips, medical school curriculum details, clinical rotations, student life, and financial aide.

UC Riverside SAT Scores and GPA

What are UC Riverside’s average SAT scores and GPA? In this guide, we’ll discuss what scores are needed for you to get admitted into UC Riverside. You’ll also get to calculate your own chances with our admissions calculator.

Location: Riverside, CA

This school is also known as: University of California, Riverside, UCR, UC Riverside

UC Riverside Admissions Statistics

There are three critical numbers when considering your admissions chances: SAT scores, GPA, and acceptance rate. All these combine to tell you what you scores are required to get into University of California, Riverside.

UC Riverside SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile New SAT score is 1130, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1330.

In other words, a 1130 places you below average, while a 1330 will move you up to above average. There’s no absolute SAT requirement at UC Riverside, but they really want to see at least a 1130 to have a chance at being considered.

Here’s the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

Section	Average	25th Percentile	75th Percentile
Math	620	550	690
Reading + Writing	605	560	650
Composite	1225	1130	1330

The average GPA at UC Riverside is 3.83. This makes UC Riverside Extremely Competitive for GPAs.

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.83, UC Riverside requires you to be near the top of your class, and well above average. You’ll need mostly A’s, ideally with several AP or IB classes to help show your preparation at a college level.

If you’re a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change from this point on. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.83, you’ll need a higher SAT score to compensate and show that you’re prepared to take on college academics. This will help you compete effectively with other applicants.

MD Medical Schools In California

Stanford University Medical School | Stanford, CA

School Type: Private
Stanford Median MCAT: 519
Stanford Median GPA: 3.89
Campus type: Suburban
Stanford Medical School Tuition: ~ $61,000
Stanford Medical School Acceptance Rate: 2%

One of the world’s most renowned medical schools, Stanford is known for its cutting-edge research, innovation in biotech and entrepreneurship, and top-of-the-line clinical training. Stanford is a powerhouse in many areas of medical education. No matter what your career goals are, Stanford is an unparalleled springboard into whatever field you may choose.

Stanford has a unique, flexible curriculum that allows students to pursue their passions. Students are able to “split” their second-year, meaning that they have the opportunity to take half the usual load of academic credits in order to spend the other half of time pursuing some scholarly project or personal endeavor. Students who opt into this program graduate in 5 years instead of 4. This is just one example of the many opportunities Stanford provides to students who want to take charge of their education and carve out their own path.

It is worth mentioning that Stanford is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, one of the most expensive places to live in California. Cost of living can be a barrier for students. However, Stanford is very generous with financial aid, and there is also graduate housing available for students. From our experiences living there, you can find affordable on-campus and off-campus housing.Get Accepted: Read Full Stanford School Profile

University of California San Francisco (UCSF) | San Francisco, CA

School Type: Public
UCSF Median MCAT: 518
UCSF Median GPA: 3.85
Campus type: Urban
UCSF Medical School Tuition: ~ $36,000 (in-state), ~$48,000 (out-of-state)
UCSF Medical School Acceptance Rate: 3.8%

UCSF resides in one of the best cities in California – San Francisco. Whether you are a foodie, or a theatre fanatic, or a museum-goer – you name it – San Francisco is the perfect city to start your medical career.

UCSF has a unique commitment to community service and social justice. They promote equal healthcare access to all populations. As a student at UCSF, you have the humbling opportunity to work with disadvantaged populations and make a great impact on their lives.

Because UCSF is located near Silicon Valley, many med students have an entrepreneurial mindset. Several students work on innovative projects and start-up companies, like mobile health app development. UCSF recently opened UCSF Innovation Ventures.

UCSF also provides world-class clinical training and research opportunities. Faculty at UCSF are well-known in their field and are eager to help students. Students who attend UCSF match for residency at top-notch institutions around the nationGet Accepted: Read Full UCSF Medical School Profile

University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) | Los Angeles, CA

School Type: Public
UCLA Median MCAT: 517
UCLA Median GPA: 3.85
Campus type: Urban (Los Angeles sprawl)
UCLA Medical School Tuition: ~ $38,000 (in-state), ~$50,000 (out-of-state)
UCLA Medical School Acceptance Rate: 2.4%

UCLA is one of the most prestigious schools in the country and is one of the most sought-out locations in the country. Who doesn’t want to live in Los Angeles? UCLA is located in Westwood, a cute college town on the west-side of L.A. Compared to the other medical schools in the Los Angeles area, UCLA is closest to the beach. Many students live around campus, but some opt to live a more urban life in downtown L.A.

Some things to do in L.A. include: hiking to the Hollywood sign, spending a day in Griffith Park, surfing at Malibu Beach, driving through the beautiful Topanga Canyon, and more. You can achieve an ideal work-life balance living in L.A. and attending UCLA for medical school. Granted, L.A. can get expensive, but UCLA has graduate housing that is much more affordable than an apartment in the area.

Of course, you will receive an excellent medical education at UCLA. Students are exposed to clinical work very early on and learn to interact with patients within the first weeks of their first year. UCLA has a pass/fail pre-clinical curriculum, eliminating competition and reducing stress. The patient population you serve is extremely diverse, both from an ethnic and also a socio-economic status perspective.

Other than clinical training, UCLA’s strength includes research. There are several opportunities for research at the medical school, but many students also pursue research through other UCLA departments, including the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research and UCLA AIDS Institute. Get Accepted: Read Full UCLA Medical School Profile

University of California San Diego (UCSD) | La Jolla, CA

School Type: Public
UCSD Median MCAT: 517
UCSD Median GPA: 3.85
Campus type: Suburban
UCSD Medical School Tuition: ~ $37,000 (in-state), ~$49,000 (out-of-state)
UCSD Medical School Acceptance Rate: 3.8%

UCSD School of Medicine is highly ranked and it has earned that ranking through outstanding clinical training and strong research. Being the only major academic center in San Diego, UCSD students have access to diverse patient populations from all over the city. UCSD has several free clinics for underinsured or uninsured patients.

People come from all over the country just to spend a few vacation days in San Diego. It is sunny year-round with beautiful beaches. It is hard to not be happy when you can walk out of your front door in the morning and breathe in the ocean air. This is one of the many things that draw prospective students to UCSD.

Students interested in research are not confined to UCSD Medical School (although students have no trouble finding an outstanding lab on their campus). Med students also work with faculty at Scripps and other surrounding areas. UCSD’s research strength includes basic science and biotechnology. In addition to conducting medical research through the university, other students pursue summer internships or work on medical devices in the booming San Diego biotech hub.

UCSD is located very close to the border between the US and Mexico. This creates a unique political and social climate, and it provides students with the opportunity to work with high-need, immigrant populations. Many students volunteer in predominantly Spanish-speaking communities, including trips to Tijuana, Mexico.Get Accepted: Read Full UCSD Medical School Profile

University of Southern California (USC) | Los Angeles, CA

School Type: Private
USC Median MCAT: 517
USC Median GPA: 3.81
Campus type: Urban
USC Medical School Tuition: ~ $65,000
USC Medical School Acceptance Rate: 4.6%

USC Keck School of Medicine is known for its vibrant student life, early clinical exposure, and top-notch medical education. The school spirit is palpable, and students have a great work-life balance. Being in Los Angeles, there are so many opportunities for getting out in the city and enjoying whatever it is that you are passionate about. Interested in seeing a Broadway musical? Head on over to the Pantages. Want to explore a unique, crazy food scene? Try the Bazaar in West Hollywood! There are endless things to do for people from all walks of life, whether you are raising a family or living it up in your early 20’s.

USC Keck Medical School is located in East Los Angeles, which is one of the most underserved parts of the city. It is affiliated with L.A. County Hospital, which is the safety-net hospital of the city and sees some of the most difficult cases. Having said that, the clinical training at USC is excellent. Students not only get to work in the hospital early on, but they get hands-on opportunities with complex cases that you won’t see in most other parts of the country because many patients at the county hospital suffer from un-treated chronic conditions.

University of California, Davis | Sacramento, CA

School Type: Public
UC Davis Median MCAT: 512
UC Davis Median GPA: 3.7
Campus type: Urban (Sacramento area)
UC Davis Medical School Tuition: ~ $41,000 (in-state), ~$53,000 (out-of-state)
UC Davis Medical School Acceptance Rate: 3.2%

UC Davis Medical School is located in the diverse Sacramento area. The school is known for its multi-faceted instruction style, innovative technology, and commitment to community service. Many med students rave about the mentorship they receive at UC Davis School of Medicine.

UC Davis School of Medicine is strong in primary care specialties like emergency medicine, internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics. The school is affiliated with numerous hospitals around the Northern California area, providing diverse clinical training and many opportunities to work with various medical professionals and patients.

Sacramento is the capital of California, and UC Davis students get involved with state-level health policy. Med students can work with the UC Davis Center for Healthcare Policy and Research, which is dedicated to improving healthcare access, delivery, costs, quality, and outcomes. Health policy involvement not only includes research, but med students also lobby at the state capitol and educate the public or legislatures about important health topics.

The Sacramento area is a very approachable city while also having many of the benefits of an urban setting, including a vibrant night-life and all sorts of recreation. You are very close to the state’s capital, which has great historical significance and makes it a very interesting place to live. You are also close to some of the most beautiful parts of the state. The area is surrounded by lakes, wildlife reserves, and tall forests. If you love the nature and outdoors, UC Davis is the ideal place to go to medical school. Grab your camping bag and tent and take a short over-night trip!Get Accepted: Read Full UC Davis Medical School Profile

University of California, Irvine (UCI) | Irvine, CA

School Type: Public
UC Irvine Median MCAT: 517
UC Irvine Median GPA: 3.83
Campus type: Suburban
UC Irvine Medical School Tuition: ~ $36,000 (in-state), ~ 48,000 (out-of-state)
UC Irvine Medical School Acceptance Rate: 4%

UCI School of Medicine is known for outstanding research and world-class physicians. UCI and affiliated hospitals have made big strides in innovation with some of the nation’s leading experts in fields such as Urology, Cardiology, and Audiology. Interested in seeing the first-of-its-kind MRI guided prostate cancer resection? Or a trans-aortic valve replacement? UCI has been a leader in its field for many years, and they continue to innovate every day. In terms of innovation in medical education, it was the first school to pioneer giving all its med students a hand-held ultrasound!

UC Irvine is in the famous Orange County, California. Irvine is well-known for being safe and a great place to start a family and career. It is just minutes away from the beach. You can easily take a day to take the ferry over to Balboa Island and grab an ice cream. Or, get yourself a Disneyland pass and make beautiful memories at the happiest place on Earth. In the summer, enjoy a fried Twinkie at the Orange County Fair. There are simply so many things to do, all within short driving distance. Orange County is very approachable with little traffic and provides a very comfortable lifestyle.

Students who attend UCI Medical School are prepared to not only tackle the technical skills, but also to foster humanistic qualities that will make them better doctors. It is no doubt that you will receive a world-class education at UCI.Get Accepted: Read Full UCI Medical School Profile

University of California, Riverside (UCR) | Riverside, CA

School Type: Public
UCR Median MCAT: 510
UCR Median Median GPA: 3.72
Campus type: Suburban
UCR Median Medical School Tuition: ~$37,000 (in-state) & ~$50,000 (out-of-state)
UCR Median Medical School Acceptance Rate: 5.5%

UC Riverside School of Medicine and its affiliated hospitals are the leading hospital of the Inland Empire, approximately 60 miles east of Los Angeles. Students at UCR have the unique opportunity to participate in the Longitudinal Ambulatory Care Experience (LACE) where they see patients very early on with a physician-mentor. It spans the first three years, bridging the gap between pre-clinical training and clinical core clerkships. The focus on UCR’s medical school is in primary care, especially among Spanish-speaking and underserved populations.

The region surrounding Riverside is growing every day, with all sorts of recreation and exciting things to do. It is located near the San Bernardino National Forest, numerous lakes, and several mountain ranges, making it the ideal location for people looking to spend time in nature. Even if you are not a nature person, the Inland Empire has an urban scene with vibrant city-life.

It is noteworthy that UCR has a significant bias towards students from the Inland Empire. Its mission is primarily to serve the underserved patients of the region. If you are an out-of-state applicant, it may be difficult to get a seat in UCR’s class. However, if you resonate with their mission and can communicate about it, do not feel limited.

California Northstate University | Elk Grove, CA

School Type: Private
Cal Northstate Median MCAT: 512
Cal Northstate Median GPA: 3.69
Campus type: Suburban
Cal Northstate Medical School Tuition: ~$60,000
Cal Northstate Medical School Acceptance Rate: 8.8%

Founded in 2015, California Northstate is one of California’s newer medical schools. Similarly to UC Davis School of Medicine, California Northstate is located in the Sacramento area, which is a wonderful region to start your medical training. At California Northstate, you will not only garner your basic science knowledge, but you will also learn extensively about medical ethics and work in hands-on clinical settings.

California Northstate is blooming as an great research and medical institution. It is being awarded numerous NIH grants for conducting innovative research in the field. It is committed to community service and research; Students are required to participate in service-learning and scholarly projects during their medical school career. Match rates sit at about 98%, so you can rest assured that you will find great success as a student here.

California University of Science and Medicine | Colton, CA

School Type: Private
California University of Science and Medicine Median MCAT: 513
California University of Science and Medicine Median GPA: 3.69
Campus type: Suburban
California University of Science and Medicine Medical School Tuition: ~$60,000
California University of Science and Medicine Medical School Acceptance Rate: not available

California University of Science and Medicine was founded in 2015, so it is a relatively new medical school. CUSM-SOM is in between the mountains and cities of the Inland Empire, with Palm Springs, Los Angeles and local beaches within just a short driving distance. Whatever you are interested in, whether it is sports, restaurants, or arts, this region offers it all. Students have the opportunity to experience the rich, vibrant environment of Southern California through local events. This area is so unique in that there is an abundance of totally disparate things to do. You can visit a local winery in Temecula, or go hiking in a national park, or go skiing in Big Bear.

Being such a new school, there is so much room to carve out your own path. You can start student interest groups that are the first of its kind. You get to grow and have an influence on the school, such as serving on curriculum committees to have a say in the future of the institution.

Note that, similarly to University of California, Riverside, there is a preference for applicants from the Inland Empire. Do not let this detract you, however, if you are very interested in the school.

Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science | Los Angeles, CA

School Type: Private
Charles Drew Median MCAT: 508
Charles Drew Median GPA: 3.4
Campus type: Urban

Charles Drew has all of the perks of having a small class size in the context of a large, vibrant city. And, by small class size, we mean really small. The entering 2020 class was made up of a mere 26 students. This makes it easy to form close relationships with fellow peers and faculty. Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science is proud to be one of the most diverse medical schools in the country, with a huge emphasis on social justice and caring for underserved populations. The curriculum focuses on significant topics in medicine, such as research, health policy, and health disparities. It is located just East of the I-110, making it an easy commute to anywhere in Los Angeles.

As a student at Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science, you will experience the rigor of medical school, alongside immersive community service with underserved patients and early, hands-on clinical experience.

Loma Linda University School of Medicine | Loma Linda, CA

School Type: Private
Loma Linda University School of Medicine Median MCAT: 509
Loma Linda University School of Medicine Median GPA: 3.8
Campus type: Suburban
Loma Linda University School of Medicine Tuition: ~$48,000
Loma Linda University School of Medicine Acceptance Rate: 5%

Loma Linda’s medical school is a religious institution, with the primary mission being to study holistic healthcare in the context of Christianity. In their words, their aim is to “continue the healing and teaching ministry of Jesus Christ to make man whole.” With religion as an inspiration, students are expected to conduct research and engage in service learning (there is a community service requirement for all students).

Students have the opportunity to rotate through diverse hospitals, from the VA, to urban hospitals, to county hospitals. You will have the chance to see many cases in all sorts of contexts.

Being in the Inland Empire of Southern California, Loma Linda is perfectly located between everything you could ask for. You’ve got the beaches an hour away, Los Angeles just a short drive to the west, the San Bernardino mountains (perfect for winter and summer excursions), and the relaxing city of Palm Springs.

Overall, if you fit in with their mission, Loma Linda School of Medicine is an extremely supportive place to start your medical training. The school’s abundant resources and wellness initiatives ensure the success of each and every student.

Kaiser Permanente Tyson School of Medicine | Pasadena, CA

School Type: Private
Kaiser Median MCAT: 515
Kaiser Median GPA: 3.85
Campus type: Suburban
Kaiser Tuition: tuition free first 5 years

Kaiser was founded most recently in 2019. Even so, it has made immense strides in terms of prestige in such a short time. The clinical training at Kaiser is unlike any other. Being affiliated with Kaiser Permanente hospitals, there is no shortage of interesting, diverse cases to see.

Kaiser has a commitment to primary care. They believe that student loan debt is a big reason that medical students choose to not take the internal medicine route, instead looking for something that will pay more, like surgery. Kaiser has responded to this by offering completely free tuition to their first few classes. They also offer abundant amenities to their students, such as laptops, iPads, cell phones, and more. They do not want cost to be a barrier in pursuing what you love.

Pasadena is a wonderful place to live. It has the perfect blend of historical landscape and modern excitement. Not to mention, the weather is perfect year-round. If you like the idea of living in Los Angeles, but do not want to live a bustling city life, Pasadena is perfect for you. It has a suburban feel, filled with nature and outdoor activities, yet it is just a short drive way from downtown LA. You get the best of both worlds.

DO Medical Schools In California

Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine | Vallejo, CA

School Type: Private
Touro University California Median MCAT: 510
Touro University California Median GPA: 3.68
Campus type: Suburban
Touro University California School of Medicine Tuition: ~$48,000
Touro University California Acceptance Rate: 8%

Touro University has a fantastic osteopathic program with an emphasis on outstanding training in holistic healthcare. Touro focuses strongly on preventative healthcare. They believe that many of the ailments that people develop are preventative and should be treated as such. Clinical training is fantastic here, especially if you want to train as a physician with these values.

Touro is also very strong in research and community outreach. Many students benefit from the exceptional research facilities and faculty. And, as a student here, you get the rewarding benefit of treating underserved populations.

From art galleries, to farmer’s markets, to Six Flags, to beautiful bike trails, there is an abundance of things to do in Vallejo. You are also just a short ferry ride to San Francisco, which is notoriously one of the most exciting cities in the country. Vallejo is not that well-known, but it is a wonderful city. If you are considering applying to Touro, rest assured that you will be in a fantastic location.

Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine | Pomona, CA

School Type: Private
Western University of Health Sciences Median MCAT: 510
Western University of Health Sciences California Median GPA: 3.68
Campus type: Suburban
Western University of Health Sciences Tuition: ~$59,000
Western University of Health Sciences Acceptance Rate: 6%

Western University in Pomona strongly emphasizes treatment of the patient as an individual, rather than as a set of symptoms. They also strongly encourage community outreach. As a student, you have the opportunity to even earn degree credits for participating in community service. There are ample opportunities to get involved in all sorts of interests, from student government to the arts.

As a student here, your clinical training is fantastic. Not only do you rotate through all of the usual specialties that most schools require for clerkships, but you also do an Osteopathic Manipulative rotation. This emphasizes the core principles of osteopathic medicine and how to treat the body from a different lens. While there are so many affiliated hospitals to rotate through, students also have the opportunity to rotate through hospitals all over the country! If you have a location or school you’ve been wanting to train at, you may have the opportunity to do so.

Pomona is uniquely nestled around the Orange County-Los Angeles area and has the benefits of both locations. Want to head to West Hollywood to see a Broadway musical? Go for it. Want to go to Disneyland in Anaheim? Also go for it! But, you don’t even have to leave Pomona to enjoy life as a medical student. Western University hosts all sorts of fun events, such as ice cream socials, Halloween costume contests, and musicals. Students at Western University are immersed in rich, diverse experiences and have a great work-life balance.

California Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine | Clovis, CA

School Type: Private
California Health Sciences University of Osteopathic Medicine Median MCAT: 505
California Health Sciences University of Osteopathic Medicine Median GPA: 3.4
Campus type: Suburban
California Health Sciences University of Osteopathic Medicine Tuition: ~$53,000
California Health Sciences University of Osteopathic Medicine Acceptance Rate: 5%

California Health Sciences University of Osteopathic Medicine (CHSU-COM) is a brand new medical school – the inaugurating class matriculated in 2020. The primary mission of CHSU is to train physicians who aim to stay and serve the underserved communities in the Central Valley of California. Being so new, there is so much opportunity to help shape the future of the institution. Not to mention, all of the facilities are brand new and intentionally designed for the purpose of optimizing medical education. Classroom learning is supplemented with interactive simulations with manikins. Anatomy labs have state-of-the-art equipment, just waiting for new students to come and use it. Interestingly, CHSU focuses on culinary medicine and teaching in depth about nutrition. This is unique. A common complaint is that not enough medical schools emphasize the effect of nutrition on health.

Clovis is an ideal place to live because, compared to much of California, cost of living is affordable. Yet, you are not compromising on quality of life. You are nearby beautiful national parks, such as Yosemite and Sequoia, and just a short drive away from beautiful destinations such as Carmel and Monterey. Art and culture thrive in Clovis, and foodies will not be disappointed here.

There are boundless opportunities, and by coming here, so you carve your own path as a medical student. And, with such a small class size, you will make friends and relationships that will last a lifetime.

Tips On How To Get Into California Medical Schools

Tip #1: Study what makes each school unique

Some of these schools have a very particular mission or have a strong in-state bias. You need to look into where is a good fit for you and where you have the best chance of getting in.

Read our synopses and school profiles carefully to see whether you are a good fit for each medical school. Additionally, look at each medical school’s website for additional resources and information.

Tip #2: Stand out by conveying your “X” factor

California schools are notoriously competitive. Sometimes, it is not enough to just check all of the boxes on the application and call it a day. You need to find what makes you unique and what makes you stand out. If you can find that “x-factor” and write well about it, it will be received very well by these medical schools. Maybe you’re a competitive baker or love teaching people piano. Whatever it may be, even it is not medically-related, that is the type of thing that will help you stand out.

Read more tips: AMCAS Applicant Guide

Tip #3: Apply to medical schools in your MCAT and GPA range

Most importantly for out-of-state applicants, learn which medical schools accept out-of-state students. Some California state schools are notorious for not admitting out-of-state or international pre-meds. You can learn out-of-state versus in-state admissions rates in the MSAR or U.S. News. We listed some of the admissions statistics below! Additionally, we support our mentees to apply to reach schools, but it’s important to apply to a majority of your schools where your GPA / MCAT scores are within the range in which students typically gets accepted.

Apply to several medical schools. If you are set on living in California, you need to increase your chances of getting into a school there. If you have the financial means, you should consider applying to multiple California schools. Cast a wide net, and you are more likely to be successful. Ideally, we suggest California students to still apply to several out-of-state schools.

Additional Resource: How to Use MSAR Effectively: 4 Tips to Apply to Medical Schools Right For You

Tip #4: Talk to current medical school students

There are so many California schools, it can be hard to distinguish them. One great way to get to know the school more is by talking to current students. They will have great insider information that you cannot get from just reading the school’s brochure online. The more you know about the school, the more excited you get about it and the better your writing will be when you explain why you want to go there.

Tip #5: Tailor each secondary towards each medical school

While almost all California medical schools are great research universities, the medical schools do have a some specific niches. We’ll put some examples below:

Stanford – research, changing healthcare through innovation, leadership
UCSF – clinical excellence, changing healthcare through innovation, leadership, strong primary care (although they recruit students who are also strong in specialty fields), diversity
UCLA – research
UCSD – research, specifically in biotechnology and basic sciences
Kaiser – interdisciplinary interests in medicine (ex: arts and medicine), ability to leverage Kaiser’s HMO network and databases to conduct research
Loma Linda – Jesuit tradition, community medicine
UC Davis – primary care, public policy interests (located in Sacramento), rural health – specifically in Spanish-speaking areas in California
UCR – primary care, healthcare for LatinX populations

University of California – Riverside (UC Riverside)

Address

UCR School of Medicine / Office of Admissions / 900 University Ave. / G1682, SOM Education Bldg. / Riverside, California USA 92521

Phone

951-827-4353

Email

medadmissions@ucr.edu

Overview

Savvy Rank82School TypeMDPublic/PrivatePublicYear Founded2008US News Rank – Research91US News Rank – Primary Care92Cost$$Weather RatingCity Size9M+

Getting In

Median GPA3.73Median MCAT511Research RatingOut-of-State RatingInternational FriendlyNoMed School Class SizeApplicationAMCASLetters of Rec Required

Secondary Essays

Secondary Essay DifficultyScreen Before SecondariesYesTypical Secondary Release DateLateSecondary Fee$105Other Tests

Interviews

Interview TypeInterview Invites BeginInterview FormatMMIAccepts Updates?Yes

Secondary Essay Prompts

Essay Topics (’21 – ’22)

1. The mission of the UCR School of Medicine is to improve the health of the people of California and, especially, to serve Inland Southern California by training a diverse workforce of physicians and by developing innovative research and health care delivery programs that will improve the health of the medically underserved in the region and become models to be emulated throughout the state and nation. What experiences, skills, and abilities will you bring to the class to fulfill this mission? (250 words)

2. The values of the UCR SOM are integrity, innovation, inclusion, excellence, accountability and respect. Please choose one of the values and tell us how you have personally experienced it or have seen it emulated in a clinical setting. (250 words)

3. In what type of healthcare setting do you see yourself practicing medicine? (250 words)

4. Tell us about a personal challenge you have faced in your life thus far and how you demonstrated resilience and grit to overcome it. [Please do not write about studying for or taking the MCAT.] (250 words)

OPTIONAL QUESTION

1. If there is anything you would like the committee to consider about your candidacy that is not explained elsewhere in your application, please use this space to tell us. (250 words)

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‍Essay Topics (’20 – ’21)

2. The values of the UCR SOM are integrity, innovation, inclusion, excellence, accountability and respect. Please choose one of these values and tell us about a time that you demonstrated it.

3. In what medical specialty or specialties are you interested? What experiences have created the foundation for this interest?

4. Tell us about a personal challenge you have faced in your life thus far and how you demonstrated resilience and grit to overcome it. [Please do not write about studying for or taking the MCAT.]

5. (Optional) If there is anything you would like the committee to consider about your candidacy that is not explained elsewhere in your application, please use this space to tell us.

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Essay Topics (’19 – ’20)

The mission of the UCR SOM is to train a diverse physician workforce to meet the needs of underserved communities in Inland Southern California. What experiences, skills, and abilities will you bring to the class to fulfill this mission?

The values of the UCR SOM are integrity, innovation, inclusion, excellence, accountability and respect. Please choose one of these values and tell us about a time that you demonstrated it.

In what medical specialty or specialties are you interested? What experiences have created the foundation for this interest?

Tell us about a personal challenge you have faced in your life thus far and how you demonstrated resilience and grit to overcome it. [Please do not write about studying for or taking the MCAT.]

If there is anything you would like the committee to consider about your candidacy that is not explained elsewhere in your application, please use this space to tell us. [You are not required to use this space. You will not be penalized for leaving blank.]

There is a 500 character limit for each.

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Essay Topics (’18 – ’19)

1. Describe the single MOST important event or non-academic activity in your life and explain why its significant.

2. What activity or accomplishment are you MOST proud of?

3. What experiences or activities have prepared you to work with medically underserved communities?

4. Please list any Scholastic Activities that you have been involved with (including honors and awards)

5. Describe a major problem you have had to deal with at some time in your life. Include how you dealt with it and how it influenced your growth.

6. Is there any specific hardship to which you would like the committee to give special attention in evaluating your application? Please briefly explain below. (Include any geographic, language, economic, academic, physical, or mental factors.)

7. What kind of health care setting do you envision yourself working in?

8. How do you see yourself contributing to the mission of the UCR School of Medicine?

9. PERSONAL STATEMENT: Your personal statement from the AMCAS application will be used in our admissions process. You do not need to duplicate it here. At your option, you may use this space to provide any further information you may want us to consider in addition to the AMCAS personal statement. THIS IS NOT MANDATORY.

10. If you click Yes for disadvantaged student -> Describe the manner in which your experiences demonstrate your understanding of, and commitment to, underserved communities . Please limit your response to 250 words

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Essay Topics (’17 – ’18)

All of the prompts are 250 word limit

Has your education been continuous since graduation from high school? (yes or no, explanation if no)

Activities:

Describe the single MOST important event or non-academic activity in your life and explain why its significant.

What activity or accomplishment are you MOST proud of?

What experiences or activities have prepared you to work with medically underserved communities?

Please list any Scholastic Activities that you have been involved with (including honors and awards)

Personal:

Describe a major problem you have had to deal with at some time in your life. Include how you dealt with it and how it influenced your growth.

Is there any specific hardship to which you would like the committee to give special attention in evaluating your application? Please briefly explain below. (Include any geographic, language, economic, academic, physical, or mental factors.)

What kind of health care setting do you envision yourself working in?

How do you see yourself contributing to the mission of the UCR School of Medicine?

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Essay Topics (’16 – ’17)

Describe the single MOST important event or non-academic activity in your life and explain why its significant. (250 words)

What has been the single MOST unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity in which you participated? (250 words)

What has been the single MOST important volunteer work you have done and why was it meaningful? (250 words)

Have you received any honors while in college? (250 words)

What is the MOST important honor (one) you have received? Why do you view this as important? (250 words)

What has been your MOST scholarly project (thesis, research, or field of study in basic or clinical sciences or in the humanities)? Describe one and give number of hours, dates, and advisor(s). (250 words)

Describe a major problem you have had to deal with at some time in your life. Include how you dealt with it and how it influenced your growth. (250 words)

Is there any specific hardship to which you would like the committee to give special attention in evaluating your application? Please briefly explain below. (Include any geographic, language, economic, academic, physical, or mental factors.) (250 words)

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? What experiences have led you to this goal? (250 words) What kind of health care setting do you envision yourself working in?

What is the most important health care issue confronting disadvantaged communities and what would be your first steps to address this issue? (250 words)

How do you see yourself contributing to the mission of the UCR School of Medicine?

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Essay Topics (’15 – ’16)

Describe the single MOST important event or non-academic activity in your life and explain why its significant. (250 words)

What has been the single MOST unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity in which you participated? (250 words)

What has been the single MOST important volunteer work you have done and why was it meaningful? (250 words)

Have you received any honors while in college? (250 words)

What is the MOST important honor (one) you have received? Why do you view this as important? (250 words)

What has been your MOST scholarly project (thesis, research, or field of study in basic or clinical sciences or in the humanities)? Describe one and give number of hours, dates, and advisor(s). (250 words)

Describe a major problem you have had to deal with at some time in your life. Include how you dealt with it and how it influenced your growth. (250 words)

Is there any specific hardship to which you would like the committee to give special attention in evaluating your application? Please briefly explain below. (Include any geographic, language, economic, academic, physical, or mental factors.) (250 words)

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? What experiences have led you to this goal? (250 words)

What is the most important health care issue confronting disadvantaged communities and what would be your first steps to address this issue? (250 words)

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Essay Topics (’14 – ’15)

Describe the single MOST important event or non-academic activity in your life and explain why its significant. (250 words)

What has been the single MOST unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity in which you participated? (250 words)

What has been the single MOST important volunteer work you have done and why was it meaningful? (250 words)

Have you received any honors while in college? (250 words)

What is the MOST important honor (one) you have received? Why do you view this as important? (250 words)

What has been your MOST scholarly project (thesis, research, or field of study in basic or clinical sciences or in the humanities)? Describe one and give number of hours, dates, and advisor(s). (250 words)

Describe a major problem you have had to deal with at some time in your life. Include how you dealt with it and how it influenced your growth. (250 words)

Is there any specific hardship to which you would like the committee to give special attention in evaluating your application? Please briefly explain below. (Include any geographic, language, economic, academic, physical, or mental factors.) (250 words)

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? What experiences have led you to this goal? (250 words)

What is the most important health care issue confronting disadvantaged communities and what would be your first steps to address this issue? (250 words)

IF you think youre disadvantaged,

Describe the manner in which your experiences demonstrate your understanding of, and commitment to, underserved communities . Please limit your response to 250 words (250 words)

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Essay Topics (’13 – ’14)

-Describe the single MOST important event or non-academic activity in your life and explain why it’s significant. (250 words)

-What has been the single MOST unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity in which you participated? (250 words)

-What has been the single MOST important volunteer work you have done and why was it meaningful? (250 words)

-What is the MOST important honor (one) you have received? Why do you view this as important? (250 words)

-What has been your MOST scholarly project (thesis, research, or field of study in basic or clinical sciences or in the humanities)? Describe one and give number of hours, dates, and advisor(s). (250 words)

-Describe a major problem you have had to deal with at some time in your life. Include how you dealt with it and how it influenced your growth. (250 words)

-Is there any specific hardship to which you would like the committee to give special attention in evaluating your application? Please briefly explain below. (Include any geographic, language, economic, academic, physical, or mental factors.) (250 words)

-Where do you see yourself in 10 years? What experiences have led you to this goal? (250 words)

-What is the most important health care issue confronting disadvantaged communities and what would be your first steps to address this issue? (250 words)

-PERSONAL STATEMENT: Your personal statement from the AMCAS application will be used in our admissions process. You do not need to duplicate it here. At your option, you may use this space to provide any further information you may want us to consider in addition to the AMCAS personal statement. THIS IS NOT MANDATORY.

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