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August 21, 2022

Yale School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Tips [2022 – 2023]

“The mission of Yale School of Medicine is to educate and inspire scholars and future leaders who will advance the practice of medicine and the biomedical sciences.”

As a top research institution, Yale is not simply interested in training students to practice good medicine. It is searching for physician-scientists who will take medical knowledge to the next level. Yale provides countless opportunities to do research and makes them available early on. They also have an optional 5th year, which is taken between years 3 and 4, and can be used to complete a research project.

If you are applying to Yale’s MD/PhD program , you probably already know a unique feature of the program is that students do 6 months of clinical rotations at the end of their second year, to solidify their clinical knowledge before undertaking PhD work. This can theoretically make your research more clinically based and increase your potential to solve real-world medical problems. They also have a program called Start@Yale . This program encourages interest in physician-scientist careers among entering medical students. With all this back and forth between clinical and research education, Yale helps students connect the dots between medicine and science while furthering their overall mission.

Yale Medical School 2022-23 secondary application essay questions

Below are some suggestions for the Yale Medical School secondary essay prompts.

Please submit answers to the following questions. Please limit your responses to approximately 500 words each.

Yale Med School essay #1

Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

While this is a chance to highlight something that makes you unique, many premeds who have followed a traditional track wonder if they can write about anything genuine. The answer is, find something about you that has changed. First, make a list of possible topics , including academic and non-academic experiences, humanitarian or research work, and challenges you faced. Choose one that has a different angle from your primary application and which highlights a personal strength. Now, bring the focus of your essay to the present. What skills or self-insight have you gained as a result, and how are you different from the person you were before? Lastly, take your self-discovery to the future. Show how this self-awareness has equipped you to work well with others, to solve problems, or to effect changes. How will your colleagues and patients benefit from what you learned? What you are bringing to your interactions with others? Ultimately, diversity is about being able to thrive in settings with people who are different from you, and to create an environment in which others’ strengths complement your own. Your diversity does not have to be extraordinary. It just needs to be meaningful.

Yale Med School essay #2

MD applicants:  Please answer either one of the following questions. MD/PhD applicants:  Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research. Option 1. While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.

If you tend to think about big-picture issues, such as improving access to care, funding for underserved populations, and research on environmental determinants of health, then this question is for you. Show the Yale admissions committee that you have thought deeply about the effect of environmental variables on individual health and how to change risk factors by impacting population dynamics. This is an opportunity to discuss your interest in public or global health, so if you have an interest in these fields, include your preparation and future goals.

Option 2. Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.

If your research interest takes a more basic science approach, you can use this question to highlight your understanding of research methodology and study design and your awareness of the potential pitfalls of research. Be sure to go into possible clinical implications of your work. There is currently a big focus on translational research, and Yale is at the forefront of this movement. Show your ability to not only delve into the fine details of science, but to make this knowledge applicable to clinical problems. Discuss your long-term research goals and what you hope to accomplish at Yale.

Yale Med School additional info section

This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. If you are a recent graduate, please also list your post-graduation plans/activities in the “Additional Information” section and submit any relevant updates for finalized plans/activities as the application year progresses. 

If you are applying during a gap year, list any changes in your activities since your primary was submitted. Ideally you want to show how you have grown in your research or clinical skills.

If you are still in school, you might write about changes in your activities since you submitted your primary. You could also touch on how the COVID pandemic impacted you. Either way, be careful not to focus too much on your challenges, but rather emphasize how you found new ways to learn and grow.

Applying to Yale Medical School? Here are some stats:

Yale Medical School average MCAT score: 520

Yale Medical School average GPA: 3.90

Yale Medical School acceptance rate: 4.8%

U.S. News  ranks Yale Medical School #10 for research and #68 for primary care.

Check out the Med School Selectivity Index for more stats.

Has this blog post helped you feel more confident about approaching your Yale Medical School secondary application? We hope so. It’s our mission to help smart, talented applicants like you gain acceptance to your top choice medical school. With so much at stake, why not hire a consultant whose expertise and personalized guidance can help you make your dream come true? We have several flexible consulting options— click here to get started today !

Yale Medical School application timeline 2022-23

Source: Yale School of Medicine website

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***

Dr. Suzi Schweikert has served on the UCSD School of Medicine’s admissions committee and has mentored students in healthcare programs for more than 20 years. She holds a BA in English literature from UCLA, an MD from UCSD, and an MPH from SDSU. Want Suzi to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch with Dr. Suzi Schweikert ..

Related Resources:

• How to Create Successful Secondary Applications , an on-demand webinar
• 7 Simple Steps to Writing an Excellent Diversity Essay
• 16 R’s for Medical School Essay Writing

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Yale School of Medicine Secondary Questions

Here are the secondary prompts for Yale School of Medicine

2 Required Essays: Please submit answers to the following questions. Please limit your responses to approximately 500 words each.

Required Essay 1: Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

Required Essay 2 MD applicants:  Please select one of the following questions. MD/PhD applicants:  Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

1- While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.

2- Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.

Activities and Achievements (Optional) If you are  not  enrolled in college or graduate school classes for the duration of the current academic year , please tell us how you are spending your time. Include both your current and any planned activities prior to enrolling in medical school.

Additional Essay IN CASE you have something new to report since submitting AMCAS Have there been any updates regarding your activities / achievements / distinctions since completing your AMCAS application, or do you have any important accomplishments you have not yet shared with us here or in your AMCAS application? The Office of Admissions will review your activities / achievements / distinctions in the Experiences section of the AMCAS Application, so you do not need to restate anything included there. We include your AMCAS experiences below for reference.

Optional Essay​

This section is optional. it should be used to bring to the attention of the admissions committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your yale secondary application. (500 word limit)​.

These Prompts were updated and added to by me (wysdoc) on July 4th. PLEASE, people, don’t be in such a rush to share the prompts that you give your fellow applicants incomplete or wrong information.

If you are not currently in college, what are your plans for this year?

Required Essay 1 (Please limit your response to 500 words): Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

Essay 2 (Please limit your response to 500 words): MD applicants: Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research. While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine. Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills, and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.​

Essay 3 (Please limit your response to 500 words): This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. Please limit your response to 500 words.

Required Essay 2  (please select one of the following): MD applicants:  Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

• While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.
• Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.

Optional Section: This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional)  not discussed in other sections  of your Yale Secondary Application. If you are a recent graduate, please also list your post-graduation plans/activities in the “Additional Information” section and submit any relevant updates for finalized plans/activities as the application year progresses. Please limit your response to 500 words.

Required Essay 1: Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician? (500 words limit)

Required Essay 2  (please select one of the following):

MD applicants:  Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants:  Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

• While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine. (500 words limit)
• Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine. (500 words limit)

Additional Info Section: This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. If you are a recent graduate, please also list your post-graduation plans/activities in the “Additional Information” section and submit any relevant updates for finalized plans/activities as the application year progresses. Please limit your response to 500 words.

• Required Essay 1: Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician? (500 words)

Required Essay 2 Please answer either one of the following questions. MD/PhD applicants – Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research:

Required Essay 1:

• Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician? (500 Words)

Additional Information (Optional)

• This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. Please limit your response to 500 words.
• There is also an activities/achievements section, questions about your academic background (multiple choice), and parental/diversity questions (multiple choice).

Please submit answers to the following questions. Please limit your responses to approximately 500 words each.

• Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?
• This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. Please limit your response to 500 words.

Write a statement (approximately 500 words) concerning:

• Your reasons for wishing to undertake the combined MD/PhD program, rather than the MD program alone.
• The specific PhD program that you propose to follow at Yale.
• The strengths of that Yale graduate program and its faculty as they relate to your career goals.

2017 – 2018

• Please use this space to write an essay in which you discuss your interest in Yale School of Medicine. (500 words)
• This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. (500 words)

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Yale University School of Medicine Secondary Essay Prompts

These are the secondary application essay prompts for Yale University School of Medicine. To put your best foot forward and maximize your chance of an interview invitation, visit our secondary application editing page .

aBout Yale University School of MediciNE

Secondary Deadline : November 15, 2024 Secondary Fee : $110 FAP Waiver : Yes CASPer Required : No Screens Applications : Yes Accepts Application Updates : 

As a preeminent academic medical center that supports the highest quality education, research, and patient care, the Yale School of Medicine will: Educate and inspire scholars and future leaders who will advance the practice of medicine and the biomedical sciences, Advance medical knowledge to sustain and improve health and to alleviate suffering caused by illness and disease, and Provide outstanding care and service for patients in a compassionate and respectful manner.

If you are not currently in college, what are your plans for this year?

Required Essay 1 (Please limit your response to 500 words): Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

Essay 2 (Please limit your response to 500 words): MD applicants : Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research. 1. While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine. 2. Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills, and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine. Essay 3 (Please limit your response to 500 words): This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. Please limit your response to 500 words.

1.REQUIRED ESSAY Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

2.REQUIRED ESSAY (please select one of the following): MD applicants : Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

1. While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.

2. Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.

This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. If you are a recent graduate, please also list your post-graduation plans/activities in the “Additional Information” section and submit any relevant updates for finalized plans/activities as the application year progresses. Please limit your response to 500 words.

1. Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician? MD applicants:  Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants:  Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research. 1. While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine. 2. Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine

Please submit answers to the following questions. Please limit your responses to approximately 500 words each.

1. REQUIRED ESSAY  Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

2. REQUIRED ESSAY  (please select one of the following)

MD applicants: Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

3. This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application.

Please limit your response to 500 words.

additional MD/PhD essay:

Write a statement (approximately 500 words) concerning:

4. Your reasons for wishing to undertake the combined MD/PhD program, rather than the MD program alone. The specific PhD program that you propose to follow at Yale. The strengths of that Yale graduate program and its faculty as they relate to your career goals.

1. Please use this space to write an essay in which you discuss your interest in Yale School of Medicine. (500 words)

2. This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. (500 words)

Disclaimer: The information on this page was shared by students and/or can be found on the medical school’s website. Med School Insiders does not guarantee the accuracy of the information on this page.

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Accepted yale medical school secondary essays & examples.

Reviewed by:

Akhil Katakam

Third-Year Medical Student, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University

Reviewed: 6/7/24

‍Is Yale your dream medical school? You’re in luck! Follow along to learn expert tips on how to create stand-out secondary essays for Yale Medical School. 

The Yale University School of Medicine is one of the most prestigious medical schools in the world. In addition to being part of the Ivy League, the school consistently ranks among the top 10 medical schools globally in both the US News and QS World rankings each year. 

Class-topping students from across the globe are consistently applying to Yale medical school - but how can they do so successfully when the competition is so fierce? One way is to zero in on the quality of your secondary essays. 

Essays are the biggest opportunity to differentiate yourself from other candidates because you can begin to present your personality.

Here, we’ll go over how to write the Yale secondary essays for medical school. We’ve included tips from admissions experts on how to create compelling writing, successful essay samples, and more. 

If you’re looking for a partner to help you throughout your application journey, feel free to contact one of our admissions advisors at any time. We’re here to help!

Let’s get started.

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

Yale Medical School Secondary Essay Prompts

To begin with, we must analyze the Yale essay prompts. Let’s take a look at the most recent ones. 

Essay Prompt #1

“Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician? (500 words limit)”

How to answer : To give Yale a deeper understanding of who you are, use this secondary essay as an opportunity to showcase your unique perspective. As this prompt is a " diversity essay ," consider the various aspects of your identity that make you stand out. This can include your ethnicity, culture, interests, background, and values. 

Reflect on experiences from your past that have shaped your identity and choose one to focus on in your essay. Be authentic in your writing and avoid cliches. Additionally, make sure to connect your background to how it will contribute to your future as a physician and conclude your essay by highlighting how it makes you a suitable fit for the role.

Required Essay #2: Select One Of The Following Prompts

MD applicants : Please answer either one of the following questions

MD/PhD applicants : Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

• While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine. (500 words limit)
• Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills, and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine. (500 words limit).”

How to Write the Yale Medical School Required Essay #2

First, choose the appropriate prompt.

How to answer prompt one : To respond to the first prompt, which asks you to connect your experiences to the value of treating communities and populations, consider a specific experience from your past that had a significant impact on you. 

Your topic could be a time when you volunteered, were part of an underserved community, or had a role as a representative. When selecting your topic, focus on a time when you learned something through a community experience that changed you. 

Share your story from a position of growth, highlighting any challenges or mistakes you encountered but also how you learned and improved from them. Conclude by explaining how the experience has made you a better person and how it will contribute to your future as a physician.

‍How to answer prompt two : Prompt two is targeted at MD/PhD applicants who are interested in medical research. 

Use this opportunity to elaborate on any experiences that have sparked your interest in the field of medicine. Whether it was encountering an incurable disease, facing obstacles in research, or other experiences, highlight your passion for uncovering answers and understanding. 

Keep in mind that you do not need to have specific experience in medical research to answer this prompt; think broadly about any experiences that have contributed to your growing passion for learning. Reflect on what answers you hope to uncover in the future and how your experiences and passions will make you an excellent doctor one day. 

Most importantly, be genuine in your response and avoid writing what you think Yale wants to hear. This is the chance for Yale to get to know you, your motivations, and why your experiences and passions will make you a great fit for the program.

Watch this video for helpful tips and strategies on writing impressive secondary essays for medical school. Whether you're just beginning your application or you're refining your essays, this guide offers useful advice for all stages of the process. 

Yale Medical School Secondary Essay Samples

Reading successful essays can be a helpful reference when writing your own. You can take a look at our Med School Secondary Essay Database to find tons of samples! This tool has over 20 sample essays that worked for you to read through and learn from. 

Additionally, here are some examples of successful Yale essays to use as a writing guide.  

Essay Prompt #1 Example

The first prompt asks the applicant to write a “diversity essay,” which intends to express how your unique point of view has shaped your current goals. Here’s an example of a successful medical school diversity essay .

“Being South Asian, I have firsthand knowledge of what it means not to access basic health care. As a child, my mother took me to Pakistan every year, where I spent summers with my grandfather, a top pediatrician in the nation. He had a free clinic attached to his home in Faisalabad, and his practice was so renowned and respected that people from all over the country would travel great distances to have my grandfather treat their children. Pakistan is a third-world country where a significant part of the population remains illiterate and uneducated due to the lack of resources and opportunities. This population is the most vulnerable, with extremely high numbers of infectious disease and mortality rates. Yet, it is entirely underserved. With the lack of hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices in rural Pakistan, parents of ailing children must travel great distances and wait in long lines to receive proper health care. Every summer at my grandfather’s clinic, from ages five to 17, my job was to open the doors to long lines of tired, hungry, and thirsty parents with their sick children. I would pass out bottled water and pieces of fruit. I would record names, where the patients came from, and the reasons for their visits. I would scurry back inside with the information for my grandfather to assess, and then he’d send me running back out again to let the next family inside. I learned in my formative years how to communicate with diverse patient populations with special needs and a lack of basic necessities. I learned to listen to every family’s unique reasons for their visit, and some of their desperation and pleading for the lives of their children will stay with me forever. When I get into medical school, I hope to share the story of how Gulzarah carried her dehydrated daughter for 12 miles in the Pakistani summer heat without rest (thanks to my grandfather, she later made a full recovery). I want to tell my peers that doctors like my grandfather are not only healers in biology but healers in the spirit by the way he made up heroic songs for the children and sang the fear out of their hearts. I want to show my peers that patients are unique individuals who have suffered and sacrificed to trust us with their health care, so we must honor their trust by providing quality treatment and empathy. My formative experiences in pediatrics contributed to my globally conscious mindset, and I look forward to sharing these diverse insights in my medical career.”

Why this essay works : The writer chose to focus mainly on their childhood experiences as their unique point of view. 

They successfully describe how they first became passionate about medicine with their compelling stories of their grandfather’s practice. In the end, they include how they would like to use their unique point of view to contribute to the field of healthcare.

This writer has a moving story, and although not everyone has such a drastic connection to medicine, it’s important to recognize the three main points in this essay:

• The writer describes their unique perspective. 
• The writer presents how their unique perspective lends itself to their interest in medicine.
• The writer concludes by stating how their unique perspective will help them become a better physician.

When writing your essay, you should include those three main points to connect your story regardless of your subject. 

Essay Prompt #2 Example

Here, we’ve included an essay on serving different communities and populations in response to Yale’s first question in the second essay prompt. 

This essay focuses on underserved communities, though you should keep in mind that your own essay should concentrate on the area of medicine and the community or population you are most passionate about. 

“On Wednesdays, I was the only visitor for Jorge, an elderly patient in the AIDS and Tropical Disease Ward at Carlos III Hospital in Madrid. A native of Equatorial Guinea, Jorge had full blown AIDS and had been living in Spain illegally because, according to Jorge, his country lacked enough resources and trained doctors to provide an adequate level of treatment. Over several weeks I witnessed his losing battle, not only with a terminal illness but also with cultural incongruence and a continual feeling of unease, thousands of miles away from home. Talking with Jorge during my experience as a volunteer for the NGO Soldarios Para el Desarollo in the fall of 2001, led me to question the justice of health care discrepancies that make it so difficult for people like Jorge to get sufficient treatment in underdeveloped nations. ‍Jorge was a victim of health care inequality, a subject that has been at the forefront of my mind since enrolling in “Race and Medicine in America” during my sophomore year. The course revealed to me the historically poor distribution of quality medical attention and how treatment continually evades socio-economically disadvantaged communities. I came to understand how, in the US, a national shortage of physicians and unlikely prospects of financial gain have caused few doctors to take an interest in these communities, leaving a diminishing level of access to services and expertise. This unfortunate reality inspired me to take an interest in treating these populations, in hopes of helping to improve the care for our country’s poor and underserved. Jorge’s story broadened my perspective, as I further realized that this need is exponentially worse in developing nations. ‍The combination of my studies and real world experience strengthened my desire to practice medicine focused on treating underserved populations, nationally and abroad. In pursuit of my goal, I sought additional exposure to medical conditions in the developing world. ‍During the summer of 2002, I contributed to a public health research initiative in Ghana. My research on malaria infectivity in and around the capital city Accra sent me to shanty town communities with poor hygiene and chronic illness and gave me yet another perspective on the impact of economic disparity in health outcomes and treatment options. Exorbitant patient volume and endemic disease are but a few of the many obstacles to doctors serving these communities and trying to provide quality care. ‍Despite these difficulties, I witnessed skilled physicians in this setting performing complex procedures in substandard conditions. At the Komfo Ankye Teaching Hospital in 7 the urban village of Kumasi, I scrubbed-in during the removal of an osteosarcoma tumor from a man’s jaw and an ileostomy, where I saw a scalpel filling the role of an absent screwdriver and doctors working in a hot ward with minimal ventilation and only basic amenities. ‍These resourceful doctors were still able to perform, reaffirming my expectation that despite complications, the addition of well-trained doctors can make a marked difference. I began to understand how, by taking my medical school training to such environments, I could serve as an intermediary - bringing first world knowledge into a third-world context. ‍Since my time in Ghana, I have continued to participate in health care projects in poor communities. During the summer of 2003, I conducted research in an obstetrics ward of a public hospital in Sao Paulo, and the following fall participated in an infectious disease initiative that brought medical attention to impoverished suburbs of Lima, Peru. ‍Most recently, I worked at a bilingual health clinic in Chicago serving a primarily Latino immigrant community. With each experience, I gained a deeper understanding of the complementary skills necessary to make a real difference. I have learned that medical knowledge, cultural understanding, and political savvy are critical components to a holistic approach to community health care and development, and are skills possessed by the most effective contributors to positive change. ‍I continue to hone my language skills in anticipation of serving Spanish and Portuguese-speaking populations; and I am building an understanding of how to work in a complex funding environment and link medical treatment with public policy. I wish to pursue my medical training and a Master’s in Public Health, so that I can improve access to health care and serve as an effective physician. My desire to perform medical public service developed from concern and sympathy for people in need of medical care, most specifically those with the least access. I further recognize the importance such compassion plays in effective communication between doctors and their patients. ‍It was my childhood doctor’s ability to convey understanding and elicit trust that inspired my initial interest in the medical field. He combined calm and compassion with medical expertise in a thorough form of healing that I grew to expect, but have infrequently witnessed in poor communities. As I strive to bring better health care to underserved populations, I hope to do so with the same personal care and attention that comforted me in my youth.”

Why this essay works : In this example, the writer clearly highlights their passion for healthcare and how it all began. 

Importantly, they clearly emphasize the communities they are most passionate about helping through medical care. Whichever population or community you intend to care for later on should be clear in this essay, even if you change your mind later on. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your unique perspective and attributes to Yale.

You should also take a look at Inspira's Secondary Essay Prompt Database . It's a useful collection of essay prompts for med school applicants, helping you stay organized and proactive during the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. It includes prompts from various schools, making it easier for you to craft your responses and keep track of deadlines.

Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about how to write the Yale secondary essays for medical school.

1. How Many Secondary Essays Do You Need for Yale Medical School?

There are technically four essay prompts for medical school at Yale, although only two are mandatory to write. The second prompt has two questions you can choose between, and the third prompt is an optional essay that you can choose to write if you want to explain an abnormal circumstance on your application. 

2. How Do I Write the Yale Medical School Essays?

When writing the Yale essays, make sure to highlight your unique perspective. Consider the unique qualities you bring to the table and how your personal history has influenced your career choices. 

Remember, your essays are the perfect opportunity for Yale to get to know the person behind the numbers. It’s your time to shine! Also, utilizing an online plagiarism checker ensures the originality of your essays.

Final Thoughts

Writing medical school essays is challenging for most aspiring medical students simply because creative writing is not often their strong suit. However, if you can master the art of telling your story and providing your unique perspective on healthcare - you’ll be sure to wow the admissions committee. 

Good luck with your essays!

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How to Nail Your Yale School of Medicine Secondary Essays

Learn how to ace your Yale School of Medicine secondary essays with our comprehensive guide.

Posted March 31, 2024

Featuring Pravesh S.

Medical School Interview Office Hours

Starting wednesday, september 18.

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Table of Contents

The secondary essay portion of the Yale School of Medicine application is an opportunity for you to present yourself in a unique and compelling way. It allows the admissions committee to learn more about you beyond your academic achievements and personal statement . To make the most of this opportunity, it is important to understand the essay prompts, craft outstanding responses, and personalize your essays to stand out from the competition. In this article, we will guide you through the process of nailing your Yale School of Medicine secondary essays.

How to Craft Outstanding Secondary Essays for Yale

When it comes to crafting outstanding secondary essays for Yale, it is essential to approach each prompt with thoughtfulness and sincerity. The admissions committee wants to get to know you as an individual, so your essays should reflect your unique experiences, motivations, and aspirations. Here are some tips to help you craft compelling responses:

Read and Understand the Prompt

Before you start writing, take the time to carefully read and understand each essay prompt. Pay attention to any specific instructions or questions asked, and make sure you address them in your response.

Understanding the prompt is crucial because it sets the foundation for your essay. It helps you identify the key themes or ideas that the admissions committee wants to explore. By thoroughly comprehending the prompt, you can ensure that your essay is focused and directly addresses the questions asked.

For example, if the prompt asks you to discuss a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it, make sure your response revolves around that specific experience. Avoid going off on tangents or discussing unrelated topics.

Brainstorm and Outline

Once you grasp the prompt, brainstorm ideas and make an outline of your main points. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a coherent and logical flow in your essay.

During the brainstorming process, think about your personal experiences, achievements, and goals that align with the prompt. Consider how these experiences have shaped you as an individual and influenced your aspirations.

Creating an outline allows you to structure your essay effectively. It helps you determine the order in which you will present your ideas and ensures a smooth transition between paragraphs. An organized essay is easier to follow and demonstrates your ability to think critically and convey your thoughts clearly.

Show, Don't Tell

Instead of simply stating facts or achievements, try to illustrate them with anecdotes or examples from your personal experiences. This will make your essays more engaging and memorable.

Admissions committees are interested in understanding who you are beyond your academic achievements and extracurricular activities. By sharing specific stories or instances, you can provide a deeper insight into your character, values, and motivations.

For instance, if you are discussing your commitment to community service, don't just mention the number of hours you volunteered. Instead, narrate a meaningful interaction you had with someone you helped and explain how that experience impacted your perspective on the importance of giving back.

Be Concise and Focused

Admissions committees read hundreds, if not thousands, of essays. Make every word count by being concise and focused. Avoid unnecessary fluff and get straight to the point.

While it is important to provide enough detail to support your ideas, it is equally crucial to avoid rambling or going off on tangents. Admissions officers appreciate essays that are clear, concise, and to the point.

One way to ensure conciseness is to carefully review your essay and eliminate any repetitive or redundant information. Stick to the main ideas and avoid including unnecessary background information that does not directly contribute to your response.

Proofread and Edit

After you have written your essays, take the time to proofread and edit them carefully. Check for any grammatical or spelling errors, and ensure that your ideas are clearly expressed.

Proofreading is a crucial step in the essay writing process. It allows you to catch any typos, grammatical mistakes, or awkward phrasing that may distract the reader from your message. It is also an opportunity to refine your ideas and ensure that they are effectively communicated.

Consider asking a trusted friend, family member, or teacher to review your essays as well. Fresh eyes can often spot mistakes or areas that need improvement that you may have missed.

By following these tips, you can create outstanding secondary essays for Yale that showcase your unique qualities and make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Remember to stay true to yourself and let your authentic voice shine through in your writing.

Related topic : Understanding the Secondary Application in Medical School Admissions

Yale's Essay Prompts

Yale's essay prompts are designed to assess your personal and professional qualities, as well as your fit with the school's mission and values. It is important to thoroughly understand each prompt to provide a thoughtful and meaningful response.

When it comes to writing your essays for Yale, there are several key factors to keep in mind. By following these tips, you can ensure that your writing is effective and impactful.

3 Tips for Effective Writing

• Use specific and vivid language : Instead of using generic or vague descriptions, use specific and vivid language to bring your experiences to life. By painting a clear picture with your words, you can engage the reader and make your essay more memorable.
• Be authentic : It can be tempting to try and impress the admissions committee by pretending to be someone you are not. However, it is important to be genuine and let your true self shine through in your writing. Admissions officers value authenticity and want to get to know the real you.
• Show empathy and compassion : Medicine is a field that requires empathy and compassion. Incorporate these qualities into your essays to demonstrate your understanding of the importance of patient care. Share stories or experiences that showcase your ability to connect with others on a deep level.

Personalizing your responses is key to making your essays stand out from the rest. By following these strategies, you can ensure that your essays are unique and tailored to Yale.

3 Ways to Personalize Your Responses

• Connect your experiences to Yale's mission : Show how your experiences align with Yale's mission and values. This will demonstrate your fit with the school's culture and highlight your understanding of what Yale stands for.
• Highlight your unique strengths : Identify your unique strengths and emphasize them in your essays. Showcase what makes you stand out from other applicants and how these strengths will contribute to the Yale community.
• Share personal anecdotes : Personal anecdotes can make your essays more relatable and memorable. Share stories that highlight your growth, resilience, or dedication. By sharing personal experiences, you can provide the admissions committee with a deeper understanding of who you are as an individual.

By following these tips and strategies, you can craft thoughtful and compelling essays that showcase your qualifications and fit for Yale. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, values, and goals, and use your essays as an opportunity to express yourself and make a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

How to Make an Impact with Your Essays

Writing essays for your college applications can be a daunting task. You want to make sure that your essays stand out from the rest and leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee. After all, this is your opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and convince the committee that you are the perfect fit for their institution.

So, how can you make an impact with your essays? The first step is to be authentic. Don't try to be someone you're not or write what you think the committee wants to hear. Instead, be true to yourself and let your genuine voice shine through. This will not only make your essays more engaging but also help the committee get a better sense of who you are as a person.

Passion is another key ingredient in making an impact with your essays. Show the committee that you are truly passionate about your chosen field of study. Whether it's medicine, engineering, or art, let your enthusiasm and dedication shine through in your writing. This will not only make your essays more compelling but also demonstrate your commitment to your chosen path.

It's important to share your unique perspectives and experiences in your essays. Think about what sets you apart from other applicants and highlight those qualities in your writing. Maybe you have overcome a significant challenge or have had a transformative experience that has shaped your goals and aspirations. By sharing these personal stories, you can make your essays more memorable and impactful.

Lastly, don't forget to make your writing compelling. Use vivid language, descriptive details, and engaging storytelling techniques to captivate the reader's attention. Avoid generic statements and clichés, and instead, strive to create a narrative that is both informative and captivating. This will ensure that your essays leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

Nailing your Yale School of Medicine secondary essays requires careful preparation, thoughtful writing, and personalization. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can craft outstanding responses that effectively showcase your qualifications and fit with Yale's mission. Good luck!

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• Secondary Essay Prompts

Secondary Essay Prompts – Yale School of Medicine

Secondary Essay Prompts for the Yale School of Medicine

Below are the secondary essay prompts for the Yale School of Medicine New Haven, CT.

2019 – 2020

Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

MD applicants: Please answer either one of the following questions

MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

• While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.
• Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.

This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application.

Please limit your response to 500 words.

• questions about your academic background (multiple choice)
• parental/diversity questions (multiple choice)

2018 – 2019

Please submit answers to the following questions. Please limit your responses to approximately 500 words each.

Required Essay 1:

Required Essay 2 (please select one of the following):

Additional MD/PhD essay:

• Write a statement (approximately 500 words) concerning:

Below are the secondary essay prompts for the Yale School of Medicine.

2017 – 2018.

• The Yale School of Medicine strives to ensure that its students become respectful physicians who embrace all dimensions of caring for the whole person. Please describe how your personal characteristics or life experiences will contribute to the Yale School of Medicine community and bring educational benefits to our student body. (1000 characters)
• Is there any further information that you would like the Committee on Admissions to be aware of when reviewing your file that you were not able to notate in another section of this or the AMCAS Application? (1000 characters)
• Why have you chosen to apply to the Yale School of Medicine and how do you think your education at Yale School of Medicine will prepare you to become a physician for the future? (1 page, formatted at your discretion, upload as PDF)

2016 – 2017

• Please use this space to write an essay in which you discuss your interest in Yale School of Medicine. (500 words)

Yale School of Medicine

Secondary essay webcast with Dr. Jessica Freedman, founder and president of MedEdits Medical Admissions.   Read more about Dr. Freedman.

Topics covered in this presentation:

• When should I submit my secondary essays?
• Pay attention to the word/character limits.
• Can I recycle secondary essay prompts for multiple schools?
• Identify topics that you left out of your primary application.
• And, much more.

Secondary Essay Prompts for Other Schools

Do you want to see secondary essay prompts for other medical schools?

Select a school below:

Secondary Essay Prompts By School

*Data collected from MSAR 2022-2023, 2022 Osteopathic Medical College Information Book, and institution website.

Disclaimer: The information on this page was shared by students and/or can be found on each medical school’s website. MedEdits does not guarantee it’s accuracy or authenticity.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Secondary Essay Prompts – Baylor College of Medicine

Secondary Essay Prompts – University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine

Secondary Essay Prompts – University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine

Secondary Essay Prompts – Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons

Secondary Essay Prompts – Mayo Medical School, Rochester, MN

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Cracking Yale School of Medicine Admissions: Tips To Stand Out

• Cracking Med School Admissions Team

Hi premeds!  This page serves as a high-yield resource for Yale School of Medicine (Yale SOM). The information from this page is a GOLDEN resource. We’ve compiled it from Yale Medical School acceptance rate data, the Yale Med School website, and most importantly, from Yale Med students themselves! You will have facts such as Yale Medical School admissions statistics a nd you’ll get an insider perspective about how to get into Yale Medical School.

Yale is known for it’s EXTREMELY flexible curriculum and it’s Pass / Fail system. Literally, you have the option to disclose your grades. Yale looks for pre-meds who will be leaders in healthcare and who are innovators in their fields.

Whether you’re comparing medical schools that you have been accepted to, preparing for an interview, or wanting to learn more about Yale School of Medicine, keep reading!

Why Yale Medical School?

The most common reasons we’ve heard from students:

• Flexible curriculum
• Grade non-disclosure
• Innovative student body
• Research opportunities
• Close to New York and Boston
• Several opportunities to work with the underserved in New Haven

Table of Contents

Applications.

The Yale Medical School secondary application has 3 essays, two of which are required. We highly suggest all students to answer the optional essay. If you are applying MD/PhD, you must talk about your research experience.

Read our Yale Medical School secondary application tips and the school’s essay prompts since 2016. 

Yale Medical School Secondary Application Essay Prompts:

Essay 1) Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?  (500 words max)

MD Applicants:  Please answer  either  one of the following questions. MD/PhD Applicants:  Please answer  question 2  as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

• While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.  (500 words max)
• Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.  (500 words max)

Essay 3) (Optional)  This section should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. If you are a recent graduate, please also list your post-graduation plans/activities in the “Additional Information” section and submit any relevant updates for finalized plans/activities as the application year progresses.  (500 words max)

If you have questions about the Yale Medical School secondary application, email us at [email protected] or contact us .

NEED HELP WITH EDITING YOUR YALE SECONDARY ESSAYS?

Get the Cracking Med School Admissions team’s expertise through our  secondary essay editing packages.  If you have questions, email us at [email protected] or contact us .

Yale School of Medicine Interview Format

Interviews at Yale School of Medicine are traditional one-on-one interviews.

To ace your traditional interview, you need to know how to answer common medical school interview questions. It’s important to practice, practice, practice.

Cracking Med Resources for Interviews:

• How to answer “Tell me about yourself” Medical School Interview Question
• How to answer “Why this Medical School?”
• 43 Questions To Ask Your Medical School Interviewers
• Download our Cracking Med School Admissions interview guide below

Contact us if you want to schedule a mock interview with our Cracking Med School Admissions team! Take a look at our interview packages .

download your interview guide

If you are prepared, the interview gives you the perfect opportunity to standout and shine by sharing with people what you are passionate about.

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Year Applying to Med School *
• Best Email *
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Yale Medical School Acceptance Rate

Yale medical school admissions statistics:.

• Average GPA for Yale Medical School: 3.83
• Yale Medical School Average MCAT Score: 518 (130 chemical & physical / 129 critical analysis / 130 biological & biochemical / 130 psychological, social)

How did Yale Med Students Do on Their USMLE Step Exams?

• Average Yale Medical School USMLE Step 1 Score: 243
• Average Yale Medical School USMLE Step 2 Score: 248

Source: U.S. News Graduate School Rankings 2021

Your medical school application Coaches, Mentors, & Cheerleaders

We Personally Advise Every Student We Work With

Rachel Rizal, M.D.

Changing the trajectory of people’s lives.

Undergraduate Princeton University

Medical School Stanford School of Medicine

Residency Harvard, Emergency Medicine

Awards & Scholarships Fulbright Scholar USA Today Academic First Team Tylenol Scholarship

Rishi Mediratta, M.D., M.Sc., M.A.

Advising students to attend their dream schools.

Undergraduate Johns Hopkins University

Residency Stanford, Pediatrics

Awards & Scholarships Marshall Scholar Tylenol Scholarship Global Health Scholar

Each year, the Cracking Med School Admissions team helps students get accepted to top medical schools. We can help you get accepted! Contact us today.

The Insider’s View on Yale Medical School's Pre-clinical years

How to Get Into Yale Medical School – Know the Curriculum:

Curriculum Overview:

During your time as a Yale SOM student, your grades are pass/fail. You do pre-clinical work your first 1.5 years and then start your clinical clerkships January of your 2nd year. You have flexibility as to when to take your USMLE Step 1 and USMLE Step 2.

Pre-Clinical Years:

Your pre-clinical years are focused on basics science. You also have a longitudinal clinical experience and medical coaching experience. The curriculum IS NOT organ-based. In the Interprofessional Longitudinal Clinical Experience, you train alongside the School of Nursing and the PA program to learn physical exam skills. During your second year, you are in a group of 4 and are paired with a coach to teach you a standardized history and physical exam.

The first year consists of the following blocks:

• Scientific Foundations
• Genes and Development
• Attacks and Defenses
• Homeostasis
• Energy and metabolism

How to Get Into Yale Medical School – Know Unique Characteristics:

Unique highlights about pre-clinical years:

• Senior thesis
• Joint degree programs
• Ability to take classes in different schools, including the law school and business school
• Small class size

Grades for all years are pass/fail.

Taking Time Off:

Many MD candidates at Yale take time off to pursue their other passions. Some students we know have done basic or clinical research. Others have written a book. Others have done work in New York for medical journalism.

What students are saying about Yale Medical School

The insider’s view on yale medical school's clinical years.

Clinical Year Curriculum:

Yale is extremely flexible with the clinical clerkship curriculum . They group core clerkships together in themes: medical approach to the patient (internal medicine and neurology); surgical approach to the patient (surgery and emergency medicine); Women’s and Children’s Health (OB/GYN and Pediatrics), and biopsychosocial approach to health (Primary care, psychiatry, and pediatrics).

In each block, the curriculum makes sure you see patients both inpatient and outpatient. There are two-week vacation periods after 2 of the blocks.

During your last year, you are required to take one 4-week sub-internship. The rest of the time, you can choose to do research or clinical electives.

Unique highlights about clinical years:

• Diverse patient population, treating patients from low-income households to affluent individuals
• Flexibility to take additional time off
• 12-week integrated blocks which combine both inpatient and outpatient

Main Clinical Rotation Sites:

• Yale-New Haven Hospital
• Connecticut Mental Health Center
• VA Connecticut Healthcare System

What students are saying about clinical rotations at Yale SOM

Where do students live?

Most students live in apartments around campus.

Getting around:

You can get around by walking but many students have a car. There is a train in New Haven that take you directly to Boston and New York City.

How to Get Into Yale Medical School – Know The School Culture:

Financial Considerations:

You can apply for financial aid with Yale’s Financial Aid office.

• Yale School of Medicine Tuition: ~$64,000 + ~$17,500 room & board
• Average indebtedness of graduates: ~$121,000

Cracking Med School Admissions Resources

Here are useful Cracking Med School Admissions resources:

• How To Write A Personal Statement For Medical School
• Download Cracking Med School Admission’s FREE AMCAS Activities Workbook
• Premed Timeline: Planning For Medical School Applications

Read our other popular school blogs here:

• Stanford Medical School Admissions Information
• How to Get Into Harvard Medical School
• How to Get Into Johns Hopkins Medical School

Ask Us a Question. We help Students just like you Get Into Top Med Schools Each Year!

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• Office of the Deputy Dean
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How to Apply

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INFORMATION FOR

• Residents & Fellows
• Researchers

Thank you for your interest in the Yale School of Medicine MD Program. Below are the steps to follow to apply to the program. If you have any questions, please contact us .

If you are interested in being considered for the MD-PhD Program, you can find more information on the MD-PhD website .

Take the MCAT

Apply to yale via amcas, submit yale's secondary application, submit letters of recommendation, check your application status, application deadlines, decision notification and timeline, deferring offer of admission, transfer applications.

All applicants to the Yale School of Medicine's MD and MD-PhD programs must take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). For information on the MCAT, including registering to take the test, test dates, test sites, fees and obtaining test results, see the MCAT Website .

Applicants should request that test scores be released to Yale School of Medicine by the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). If you are applying in 2024 to begin in August 2025, the oldest MCAT you can submit is from January 2021.

Important: Your application will not be reviewed until we receive your MCAT scores.

MCAT Important Dates

• Earliest test date accepted for applications submitted in 2024: January 2021
• Latest test date accepted for applications submitted in 2024: Final test date in 2024

To apply to Yale School of Medicine, submit the AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) application. This application will be sent to all the medical schools to which you apply. It can be found at the AAMC Students, Applicants, and Residents site .

On the AMCAS application, you must indicate that you plan to apply to Yale School of Medicine. After submitting the AMCAS application, you will be invited to submit a secondary application to Yale.

To complete the application process, applicants to the MD and MD-PhD programs must submit an online Yale Secondary Application, in addition to their AMCAS application.

All applicants will be invited by email to submit a Yale Secondary Application after submitting the AMCAS application. This email invitation should arrive within two weeks of submitting the AMCAS application to Yale, beginning in early July when the Yale Secondary Application goes live.

Fee Waivers

Yale School of Medicine will automatically waive the Secondary Application fee for applicants who have been granted an AMCAS Fee Waiver (obtained though the AAMC Fee Assistance Program).

Applicants who were not granted a fee waiver by AMCAS and for whom the application fee would constitute a significant financial burden, may contact the Office of Admissions directly ( [email protected] ) to request a Secondary Application fee waiver. Please submit your fee waiver request after you have been invited to submit the YSM Secondary Application. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

In your fee waiver request, please share the reasons for your request, and include the number of people in your household and annual family income. You may also attach documentation that you deem important to support your request.

Application Revisions

You may not make any online changes to your Yale Secondary Application after it has been submitted. You must submit your changes in writing to the Office of Admissions by logging in to your application and clicking on the "Status" tab, then clicking on the "Communication" menu, then clicking on the button to send an email to the Admissions Office.

If you wish to submit an update to your application at any time throughout the application season (before or after an interview), you may upload a .pdf document using the Document Upload tab in the Secondary Application.

Contact Information Updates

A Premedical Committee letter is recommended for all MD and MD/PhD candidates.

If your school does not have a Premedical Committee, you may submit at least three individual letters of recommendation. These letters should come from individuals who are in a position to comment knowledgeably on your accomplishments, abilities, experience, and/or personal qualifications. They may come from those who have taught you or worked with you in undergraduate or graduate school classes, in research settings, clinical settings, extracurricular or community service activities, professional settings, or other contexts. It is helpful to have at least one of the letters from someone in the sciences, but this is not mandatory. What is important is that the letters provide information and support that will be informative and helpful to the Admissions Committee, supplementing the information that appears elsewhere in your application.

Letters of recommendation should be sent through the AMCAS Letter Service .

MD-PhD Applicants

A complete application consists of the following components:

• AMCAS application and all required components of the application (see 2 and 5 below).
• Complete official transcripts from all colleges attended. Transcripts should be sent from the colleges directly to AMCAS.
• Yale Supplemental Application submitted online no later than November 15.
• An evaluation from the applicant’s Premedical Advisory Committee or individual letters from three of the applicant’s instructors, two of whom should be in science fields. These evaluations must be sent to the Office of Admissions via AMCAS Letter Service.
• Scores from the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) must be submitted in conjunction with the AMCAS application. For information on the MCAT, applicants should communicate directly with the MCAT Program Office, PO Box 4056, Iowa City IA 52243. Information on the MCAT can also be obtained online at www.aamc.org . Scores of tests taken earlier than three years prior to submitting an application will not be accepted.
• A fee of $110 or an AMCAS fee waiver must accompany the Yale Supplemental Application. The fee is not refundable.

You can keep tabs on your application status by logging into the student portal.

• AMCAS Application Deadline: October 15
• Yale Secondary Application Deadline: November 15
• Letters of Recommendation Deadline: November 15

MD and MD-PhD programs

‘Plan’ to Enroll / ‘Commit’ to Enroll

All applicants who are accepted and either ‘plan’ or ‘commit’ to enroll must immediately withdraw from all other schools to which they were offered admission. Applicants who ‘commit’ to enroll must also immediately withdraw from waitlists at all other schools.

Applicants who are accepted and either 'plan' or 'commit' to enroll must also send a tuition deposit of $100 with their online response to reserve a place in the class. The deposit is refundable until April 30 and will be applied to tuition charges in the fall semester.

Applicants who are accepted but do not respond to their offer of admission by end of day April 30 will have their offer of admission rescinded, unless they have been approved for an extension (due to extenuating circumstance) beyond this date by the YSM admissions office.

Waitlist Offers

Applicants who are offered a position on the waitlist are required to respond by end of day April 30. Waitlisted applicants who do not accept a position on the waitlist by end of day April 30 will be removed from the waitlist and will not be further considered for admission in this cycle.

Applicants who are offered acceptance from the waitlist after April 30 and before June 1 will have five business days to respond to their offer. An applicant who does not respond within five business days will have their offer of admission rescinded, unless they have been approved for an extension (due to extenuating circumstance) beyond this date by the YSM admissions office.

Applicants who are offered acceptance from the waitlist after June 1 will have two business days to respond to their offer. An applicant who does not respond within two business days will have their offer of admission rescinded, unless they have been approved for an extension (due to extenuating circumstance) beyond this date by the YSM admissions office.

Commit to Enroll Deadline

Applicants who participate in the START program must ‘commit’ to enroll at YSM by 5:00pm EST the Friday before START and may not hold waitlist positions at any other schools. All other applicants intending to matriculate at YSM must 'commit' to enroll by 5:00pm EST June 15 and may not hold waitlist positions at any other schools. YSM will not offer admission to students after our August matriculation date.

Yale School of Medicine (YSM) will consider requests to defer an offer of admission for one year for academic reasons that arise during the application year. Requests must be made before April 15 of the admissions cycle in which the applicant was offered admission.

Occasionally, YSM allows an admitted student to defer enrollment for a year (or sometimes two) to pursue/complete a serious and primary academic objective that arises during the application year (e.g. a Churchill, Rhodes, Marshall, Gates-Cambridge fellowship). Deferrals are typically not approved for non-academic reasons.

All decisions made regarding requests to defer are final. If a request to defer is denied and an applicant offered admission decides to pursue other opportunities and not matriculate at YSM, their offer of admission will be withdrawn from YSM and they will need to re-apply in a future cycle, if interested.

Accreditation Statement

The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, and as such, it meets the educational requirements for licensure in all fifty states and the District of Columbia.

• Medical School Application

Yale Medical School Secondary Essay Examples

Reading Yale medical school secondary essay examples is a great way to inspire your own. Your secondary essays, much like your medical school recommendation letters or medical school personal statements , should reveal personality characteristics and background information that can help an admissions committee evaluate whether you have the potential qualities of a physician. While it can be tempting to start pre-writing, you should first familiarize yourself with some examples. In this article, we provide samples of secondary essays for Yale medical school to help you prepare strong answers in your submissions.

Disclaimer: Please note: although we have made every effort to provide the most accurate information, admissions information changes frequently. Therefore, we encourage you to verify these details with the official university admissions office. You are responsible for your own results. BeMo does not endorse nor affiliate with any official universities, colleges, or test administrators and vice versa. 

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 11 min read

Tips for strong medical school essays.

Before we show you any medical secondary essay examples , we have to establish a few ground rules. Fortunately, secondary essays aren’t the be-all and end-all of application success; there are other components you must supply that also determine how likely you are to get into the program of your choice, such as medical school GPA requirements . Admissions committees are looking for evidence of passion and dedication; they want to know that you’re serious about becoming a doctor and that your choice of program and school is sincere.

Familiarize yourself with these tips to help you prepare to write your secondary essays:

Most applicants have one or two schools they would prefer to get accepted into among all the schools they applied to. Before you start writing, organize the schools you applied to in order of desirability. Start writing for the schools at the top of your list first; this will ensure you can devote enough time to each prompt before submitting. You can also take the competitiveness of the school into account based on medical school acceptance rates before you start writing. To be certain, you should be writing the strongest essays for each prompt and school possible; however, be direct with which schools you want to start with to maximize quality and minimize stress. If you\u2019re wondering how to make your medical school application stand out , one way to do so is to submit your essays as early as possible to indicate strong interest in the school and program. "}]">

Secondary Essay Formatting Considerations

Most schools won’t specify any formatting considerations beyond a word count. The word count is typically between 250 and 500 words. When you receive your secondary essay prompts, take note of the word count requirement and be sure to write it at the top of your page; you can remove it when you’re finished, but having it visible will help you organize your essays and adhere to the requirements. If your essays exceed the word count, they will be discarded; if they are much shorter, they aren’t indicative of a strong essay. Make the most of the word count limit and page by writing as close to it as possible without forcing information.

Prompt: “Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?”

As someone who grew up and lived in Québec for most of my adult life, I decided to take a chance and apply to undergraduate programs outside of Québec in primarily English-speaking cities. I have a good understanding of written and oral English, but at the time, I wasn’t as confident in my ability as I am now; this was largely because in the city where I grew up, people don’t speak English very often, and a lot of them are resentful toward people who come to the city and don’t speak French. Initially, I was one of those people, and when I moved, I learned that many people inherit prejudice or hostility from their peers instead of challenging the status quo; and because I wasn’t exposed to other parts of the world, my worldview was also egocentric and narrow.

I got accepted into X university for aerospace engineering. Because this was one of the universities located in an English-speaking province, I wasn’t sure I wanted to accept. My indecision was largely due to my prejudice against English-speaking communities. However, I decided to accept the offer because the program had more experience-based activities compared to the other programs I applied to, and it was realistically the highest quality option I had.

When I arrived at the campus, I met many different people from all different backgrounds. Many of them, to my surprise, didn’t speak English very well either. I was taking a calculus class, and I was having trouble understanding some of the terms because I was still developing my English. I barely passed the first test due to the language barrier, and I was starting to regret my decision to be at this school. My professor, Dr. Abel, asked me to stay after class one day. Because he knew that I was francophone from when I participated in certain class discussions, he asked if I was having trouble understanding the lectures. I said that I was, and that the language barrier was making it difficult to learn. He invited me into his office, where he and I went over some of the important terms that I wasn’t understanding; he also referred me to an ESL tutor, who helped improve my English immensely.

Once again, I was skeptical of accepting help because of my bias. However, because the people I met who spoke English were kind, accepting, and compassionate, I learned that not only were my beliefs complete misapprehensions but also unjustifiable for anyone regardless of background. As a prospective physician, it’s essential to understand how pervasive and harmful bias can be but also to identify and extinguish it where possible. I believe the job of a health care provider is to ensure that people who need care receive it in the highest quality, regardless of background. As someone who had their biases thankfully challenged, I will continue to champion an anti-prejudicial attitude as I pursue a career in medicine.

Word count: 490

The subsequent prompt for Yale School of Medicine is, in fact, a conduit for choosing between two prompts.

(Please select one of the following): MD applicants: Please answer either one of the following questions. MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research.

“While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.”

“Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.”

As the daughter of a nurse and a PSW, I’ve had the opportunity from a young age to discuss and experience the perspective of someone who works in public health service. When I was ten, my parents volunteered for a community health program for underprivileged communities called a street health service, where volunteer nurses and doctors travel to certain communities and set up tents to provide people with health assessments and medical prescriptions. There was one location where many homeless people gathered, and I was brought along to hand out flyers and pamphlets with health information: vaccines, mental health, addiction, sleep, and nutrition were among a few of the pamphlets I organized and distributed among the patrons who arrived that day.

I had the pleasure of meeting people who hadn’t access to clinics or health care services as most people do. Many of them were lacking mandatory vaccinations, others were injured, and some were sick but had no medication. I remember there was one patient who arrived limping. One of the doctors assessed him and provided an arch support band to help with the pain and structural disfigurement. The man thanked everyone and was nearly in tears due to the relief he was feeling. This was the first time I understood the reality that some people don’t have the same privileges as I do, and that there are many morally corrupt inequities in access to health care services.

Prompt: “This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application. If you are a recent graduate, please also list your post-graduation plans/activities in the ‘Additional Information’ section and submit any relevant updates for finalized plans/activities as the application year progresses. Please limit your response to 500 words.”

During high school, I was initially interested in pursuing a career in psychology, particularly in the social sphere. Coming from a family of immigrants, I was aware of the difficulties associated with moving to a new country, and I felt that if I became a social worker, I could work with individuals who were struggling to adapt to a new country. This is also why I decided to get involved at my high school by starting a club for people who were from a new country or city and were looking for tools to help them settle in and find their way.

The goal of my club was to bring awareness to the issues immigrants face; we also connected over 100 students with counselling resources offered within the school. For my family, I know my parents struggled to find jobs in their field. They were both nurses, but the US didn’t recognize their degree backgrounds, which meant they would have to take many courses from a nearby institute if they were going to be recognized with the right credentials. Even though they were offered some tuition coverage, the process was still too expensive and slow to be a reasonable option at the time.

Are you writing your med school personal statement? Find more tips here:

I completed my undergraduate degree in psychology. However, during my second year, I fell into a state of depression and had a change of heart regarding the career I wanted to pursue. I had never experienced a depressive episode, and I was a highly motivated and active student, so it was difficult for me to accept that I was in this condition, which seemed to have no external cause. I quickly connected with a therapist through the campus well-being services. The therapist whom I worked with was incredibly kind, intuitive, and knowledgeable. He spoke with me about the possibility of medication, which prior to discussing it with him, I would have written off as dangerous and unnecessary. This was when I truly understood the value of compassion in the medical profession, and it had a profound effect on the way I thought about medicine and health care in general.

At Yale, I believe I can bridge my original purpose of increasing awareness of the social pressures of being an immigrant with health care excellence by pursuing the psychiatry clerkship. By exploring inpatient care and emergency psychiatry components, I will be well equipped to understand the needs of people who access this type of care so I can promote a message of inclusion. The Psychiatry Student Group Network will also be a vital resource for channeling meaningful contributions and promoting awareness of my message in the community, in addition to learning about the field as a whole.

Yale School of Medicine has a 500-word limit, so you should aim for as close to this limit as possible.

Research experience isn’t required to get accepted, but it can improve your ability to write strong secondary essays and thus aid your chances of getting accepted.

You should discuss experiences that demonstrate genuine care for a community. Your answer doesn’t have to come from a community service project necessarily, but it’s a great way to develop and reveal this trait. 

Compile a list of your activities during each academic year. Take note of work experience, extracurriculars, non-academic activities, research, volunteering, sports, or community service. Write down as much as you can in this brainstorming session to prepare for the writing phase.

A neutral, objective tone. You’re writing essays, so your document should have structure – an introduction, body, and conclusion. Create an outline to help you structure your answers and avoid derailing them into irrelevant topics.

Secondary essay prompts are usually sent within two to four weeks after a medical school receives your application. Check your inbox regularly to make sure you can start writing immediately.

Some schools will give you a specific deadline. However, it’s best to submit secondary essays as soon as possible, as long as you aren’t sacrificing quality. This will show your enthusiasm for the program and school.

If you go to the Yale School of Medicine website, they have a page dedicated to the directory of faculty interests . This information will be relevant if you choose the second prompt as an MD/PhD applicant.

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Essay topics.

All first-year applicants will complete a few Yale-specific short answer questions. These required questions are slightly different based on the application platform an applicant chooses. The 2024-2025 Yale-specific questions for the Coalition Application, Common Application, and QuestBridge Application are detailed below.

Short Answer Questions

Applicants submitting the Coalition Application , Common Application , or QuestBridge Application  will respond to the following short answer questions:

• Students at Yale have time to explore their academic interests before committing to one or more major fields of study. Many students either modify their original academic direction or change their minds entirely. As of this moment, what academic areas seem to fit your interests or goals most comfortably? Please indicate up to three from the  list provided.
• Tell us about a topic or idea that excites you and is related to one or more academic areas you selected above. Why are you drawn to it? (200 words or fewer)
• What is it about Yale that has led you to apply? (125 words or fewer)

Applicants applying with the QuestBridge Application will complete the questions above via the Yale QuestBridge Questionnaire, available on the Yale Admissions Status Portal after an application has been received.

Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application  will also respond to the following short answer questions, in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words):

• What inspires you?
• If you could teach any college course, write a book, or create an original piece of art of any kind, what would it be?
• Other than a family member, who is someone who has had a significant influence on you? What has been the impact of their influence? 
• What is something about you that is not included anywhere else in your application?

Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application will respond to one of the following prompts in 400 words or fewer. 

1. Reflect on a time you discussed an issue important to you with someone holding an opposing view. Why did you find the experience meaningful?

2. Reflect on your membership in a community to which you feel connected. Why is this community meaningful to you? You may define community however you like.

3. Reflect on an element of your personal experience that you feel will enrich your college. How has it shaped you?

Yale School of Medicine - Secondary Essay Prompts

Access our complete list of all Secondary Essay Prompts from Yale School of Medicine in New Haven , CT for the 2018 - 2023 admissions cycles.

1 . If you are not currently in college, what are your plans for this year?

2 . Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician?

3 . While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.

4 . Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills, and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.

5 . This section is optional. It should be used to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee any important information (personal, academic, or professional) not discussed in other sections of your Yale Secondary Application.

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2022-2023 Yale

• Thread starter wysdoc
• Start date Apr 21, 2022

Plain-spoken Texan

• Apr 21, 2022
• While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine.
• Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine.

brown_skin_girl

Full member.

• May 4, 2022

Incoming student here. The thread was super helpful to me. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.  

Mediocre_Reapp99

• Jun 26, 2022

Does Yale screen for secondaries? I've seen on Reddit that some applicants have already received it, but I have not, so I'm a little worried...  

Mediocre_Reapp99 said: Does Yale screen for secondaries? I've seen on Reddit that some applicants have already received it, but I have not, so I'm a little worried... Click to expand...

• Jun 27, 2022

OOS secondary received @Mediocre_Reapp99  

wannabeamedstudent

+1 secondary received. Same prompts as last year.  

jenkinss said: OOS secondary received @Mediocre_Reapp99 Click to expand...

jenkinss said: For @wysdoc : Required Essay 1: Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician? Required Essay 2 (please select one of the following): MD applicants: Please answer either one of the following questions MD/PhD applicants: Please answer question 2 as it pertains to your proposed PhD research. While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine. Research is essential to patient care, and all students at Yale School of Medicine complete a research thesis. Tell us how your research interests, skills and experiences would contribute to scholarship at Yale School of Medicine. Click to expand...

+2 OOS secondary received!  

wysdoc said: any word or character count guidelines, @jenkinss ? Click to expand...

Health Policy Nerd

When they are asking for us to list all of the courses taken online, is that only for the pre-med requirements or is that for all undergraduate classes?  

WeOutHereWaiting

Health Policy Nerd said: When they are asking for us to list all of the courses taken online, is that only for the pre-med requirements or is that for all undergraduate classes? Click to expand...

It says 2 semesters of biology lab required, I only did 1 and took 1 biochem lab, would that count?  

roygbi said: It says 2 semesters of biology lab required, I only did 1 and took 1 biochem lab, would that count? Click to expand...

• Jun 28, 2022

Mangolover1

For the question about online courses, how are people considering courses taken in Spring 2020 which went online after the pandemic and hybrid/online classes due to the pandemic in Fall 2020/Spring 2021?  

campgirl1 said: For the question about online courses, how are people considering courses taken in Spring 2020 which went online after the pandemic and hybrid/online classes due to the pandemic in Fall 2020/Spring 2021? Click to expand...

jenkinss said: For Spring 2020: I explictly noted that they were online from x month to y month because of campus closure. For the rest: I explictly noted that their online nature was due to faculty/campus decision and not my own. Click to expand...

• Jun 29, 2022

For the activities portion, are you guys just listing your AMCAS activity titles? I am a bit confused as to the purpose of this section so I am not sure if I am doing it correctly.  

ManWithoutPlan said: For the activities portion, are you guys just listing your AMCAS activity titles? I am a bit confused as to the purpose of this section so I am not sure if I am doing it correctly. Click to expand...

• Jul 1, 2022

Any MD/PhD applicants here? How are you approaching the two research-oriented questions ... ? Feels like they're asking the same thing to me. :/  

panexm22 said: Any MD/PhD applicants here? How are you approaching the two research-oriented questions ... ? Feels like they're asking the same thing to me. :/ Click to expand...

• Jul 6, 2022

I emailed them over a week ago about having only 1 semester of general bio and general chem lab. No response so far. I am worried about delaying submitting my secondary to hear back. Should I just go ahead and submit the secondary and say that I meet the requirements and add in the comments section that my school only offered one semester of each?  

• Jul 7, 2022

st222 said: i have the same question, but for chemistry--I have 1 sem gen chem lab and 1 sem ochem lab, but not 2 of gen chem lab because my university only offers it in one semester. same thing for bio lab Click to expand...

• Jul 9, 2022

wysdoc said: Yale School of Medicine values diversity in all its forms. How will your background and experiences contribute to this important focus of our institution and inform your future role as a physician? Click to expand...

For the additional information section, where they say " list your post-graduation plans/activities", do they actually mean list/very brief descriptions? Or would it be okay to just submit a 500 word gap year essay?  

MyStateofMind

• Jul 10, 2022

JAK2-STAT3 said: Can someone please help me out here? I am reading this as "how will you advance diversity initiatives at our institution." Is this how other people see it? Or are people interpreting it as "what will you bring to your class?" I have different answers for both and am feeling stuck. Thanks in advance. Click to expand...

fdwy13 said: For the additional information section, where they say " list your post-graduation plans/activities", do they actually mean list/very brief descriptions? Or would it be okay to just submit a 500 word gap year essay? Click to expand...

• Jul 11, 2022

never-giving-up

• Jul 12, 2022

Secondary received 7/12  

• Jul 13, 2022

Can someone explain how to address "While there is great emphasis on the physician-patient relationship, Yale School of Medicine also emphasizes the importance of training future physicians to care for communities and populations. Describe how your experiences would contribute to this aspect of the mission of the Yale School of Medicine" Would it work to talk about a specific population and pursuing a specialty to serve them?  

HalfManHalfShark

• Jul 17, 2022

Is anyone else leaving the "Achievements and Distinctions" box empty? It's kind of sad but oh well.  

HalfManHalfShark said: Is anyone else leaving the "Achievements and Distinctions" box empty? It's kind of sad but oh well. Click to expand...

• Jul 18, 2022

lula1431 said: Hey! I was curious if you ever submitted?? I am still not sure what to put bc I only have one semester of both gen chem and bio lab. I emailed admissions over a week ago and no response. Click to expand...

st222 said: Hi! so sorry, just saw this... i still haven't submitted yet, still unsure what to do haha Click to expand...

• Jul 21, 2022

for "which classes did you take online" are you guys listing literally every class online? or just the ones that fulfill reqs? like i have a bunch of random classes from the 2020-2021 year that are pretty irrelevant but were online  

drdoof11 said: for "which classes did you take online" are you guys listing literally every class online? or just the ones that fulfill reqs? like i have a bunch of random classes from the 2020-2021 year that are pretty irrelevant but were online Click to expand...

• Jul 22, 2022
• Jul 25, 2022

Hello everyone! I’m a Canadian applicant applying to USMD for the first time, and I need some guidance on the secondary application timeline. I applied to Yale Med and I submitted my AMCAS on June 22 and my application was verified/processed by AMCAS on July 22. On Yale Med's website, it says “the email invitation should arrive within two weeks of submitting the AMCAS application to Yale” but I have not received anything yet. I was wondering if it refers to two weeks after the submission of my AMCAS application, or two weeks after AMCAS has processed my application? I emailed the Admissions Office and they said “You need to first request a secondary application from Yale. Once you do that, you’ll receive an invitation to apply within two weeks”. What is this request process they are referring to? I have never heard of requesting a secondary application before and I could not find any information on it. How and where do I request a secondary application? Any help and guidance are very much appreciated!  

hotbeefsammy

• Jul 26, 2022

Canadian69 said: Hello everyone! I’m a Canadian applicant applying to USMD for the first time, and I need some guidance on the secondary application timeline. I applied to Yale Med and I submitted my AMCAS on June 22 and my application was verified/processed by AMCAS on July 22. On Yale Med's website, it says “the email invitation should arrive within two weeks of submitting the AMCAS application to Yale” but I have not received anything yet. I was wondering if it refers to two weeks after the submission of my AMCAS application, or two weeks after AMCAS has processed my application? I emailed the Admissions Office and they said “You need to first request a secondary application from Yale. Once you do that, you’ll receive an invitation to apply within two weeks”. What is this request process they are referring to? I have never heard of requesting a secondary application before and I could not find any information on it. How and where do I request a secondary application? Any help and guidance are very much appreciated! Click to expand...

hotbeefsammy said: Requesting a secondary probably means submitting your primary app to Yale, if I had to guess. But they don't send a secondary unless you're verified, and you were verified one business day ago. You'll be ok Click to expand...

Canadian69 said: I see. Thank you! Click to expand...

koomzzy said: If this helps. AMCAS submitted on 6/21, verified on 7/22. Secondary was received this morning. Click to expand...

My secondary portal status tab says that my Letters of Recommendations status is "incomplete", but when I click on it, it shows that my 3 LoRs were received by YSM. Does anyone know why this is the case? Do I need more LoRs?  

In the activities section, it says that "If you are graduating in this application cycle/year, please submit an update on your post-graduation plans/activities once they are finalized ". Does that mean I should enter a post-grad plan in the additional information section like an applicant who already graduated, or will I be prompted to do that at a later date? If I do have to enter a post-grad plan, should I do two versions, one based on getting a med admission and one based on not?  

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