Detailed selection criteria are outlined in the School of Medicine catalog. Applicants to the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) should possess:

an excellent academic record
a strong motivation to pursue a career in the basic or clinical biomedical sciences
previous research experience outside of required laboratory courses

Individuals apply to the MSTP by selecting the MD/PhD program on the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) forms. After an initial review, applicants who are reviewed favorably will receive a user ID and password so that they can access the secondary application online. At this point, applicants should solicit confidential letters of recommendation from at least three individuals who can address their qualifications for the dual degree. Letters should be sent directly to the attention of Dr. Michelle Grundy, Assistant Director of the MSTP, 340 Light Hall, Nashville, TN 37232-0301.

In the final step of the application process, competitive applicants are invited by the MSTP to interview at Vanderbilt. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis, and in most cases, applicants willl be placed on a wait list. Successful candidates will be notified of their acceptance to the program by the admissions committee. Unsuccessful applicants to the MSTP are not automatically considered for admission to the M.D. program in the School of Medicine. However, such applicants can request a review by the School of Medicine admissions committee by writing to the Medical School admissions director, Dr. Patricia Sagen (pat.sagen@vanderbilt.edu) by December 15, 2007.

The application period begins June 15 with a deadline of November 15th for submission of the AMCAS application. The secondary application must be received no later than December 31st of the year prior to enrollment. Since admission is highly competetive, individuals are encouraged to complete the application by early fall. Applications to the MSTP can be received from individuals who have accepted a position in the incoming class of the School of Medicine or who are currently enrolled in the M.D. program.

Students in the first two years of medical school or first year of PhD training may also be considered for admission. Please schedule time with Dr. Michelle Grundy if you have questions about this process.

Application timeline for admission to the MSTP

June 15	Begin the AMCAS application
November 15	Last day to submit AMCAS application to Vanderbilt
November - March	Competitive applicants will be invited to schedule an interview
December 31	Deadline to submit secondary application and letters of recommendation
May 15	Last day to notify Vanderbilt of admissions decision