In this guide, we’ll discuss how to gain admission to medical school as an international student, including eligibility requirements, financial aid options, and special considerations.
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How to Get Into Med Schools That Accept International Students
To get into medical schools that accept international students, you need strong academics (GPA and MCAT), proof of English proficiency, significant clinical or research experience in the U.S., and a compelling personal statement that explains your motivation for practicing medicine.
According to the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC), in the 2025 application cycle, 3,338 international applicants applied to MD programs in the U.S., and 807 of those applicants were accepted into a medical school. Of those accepted, 709 matriculated into medical school.
In other words, only about 21.24% of international applicants matriculated to U.S. medical schools, while 78.76% did not. Put simply, as an international applicant, your odds of matriculating are roughly 1 in 5.
Many U.S. medical schools also require evidence of financial ability to cover tuition, as federal aid is limited. Standing out often means showing long-term commitment to healthcare, cultural adaptability, and a clear plan for practicing medicine after graduation.
In Inspira’s ‘Med School Application Q&A’ webinar, Chiamaka Okorie, an international medical student at Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and expert admissions consultant at Inspira Advantage, provided expert advice on how to get into medical school as an international applicant. She said:
"If you're applying to med school and you’ve faced significant challenges, don't shy away from discussing them if they’ve shaped your journey. However, focus on how you overcame these challenges and what you learned from them. Med schools are looking for resilient candidates who can handle the rigors of medical education and practice."
Okorie’s insight highlights that adversity can be an asset for non-traditional applicants when framed effectively. Admissions committees want to understand your capacity to adapt, persevere, and grow in unfamiliar environments. For international students, this often means balancing cultural adjustment, financial strain, visa restrictions, and academic pressures.
Here is a list of specific traits medical schools look for in international applicants, including ways to demonstrate them in your application.
Specific Traits Medical Schools Look for in International Applicants
Admissions Jargon Decoded
Where to Show It in Your Application
Resilience and Adaptability
Medical schools want proof that international applicants can overcome cultural, academic, or financial challenges and still succeed in a demanding environment.
International applicants should demonstrate resilience and adaptability in their personal statement, secondary essays, and interview stories.
Cultural Humility
Medical schools value international applicants who show respect for diverse perspectives and a willingness to learn from patients, peers, and mentors.
International applicants can highlight cultural humility in essays about volunteer work, patient interactions, recommendation letters, and interview responses.
Sustained Commitment to Service
Medical schools expect long-term engagement in healthcare or community service, not just short-term or one-time volunteering.
International applicants should highlight sustained service in the Work & Activities section, secondary essays, and their CV.
Academic Excellence
Medical schools expect international applicants to maintain a GPA of 3.7 or higher and an MCAT score above the 75th percentile to remain competitive.
Academic excellence is shown through transcripts, MCAT score reports, and letters of recommendation from professors.
Financial Preparedness
Medical schools require international applicants to prove they can cover tuition and living expenses without relying on U.S. federal aid.
Financial preparedness is shown through financial documentation, visa paperwork, and sometimes during admissions interviews.
U.S.-Based Experience
Medical schools want to see that international applicants have clinical, volunteer, or research experience within the U.S. healthcare system.
U.S.-based experience is shown in the Work & Activities section, secondary essays, and recommendation letters from U.S.-based mentors.
Clear Career Intentions
Medical schools prefer international applicants who have a well-defined plan for medical training, residency, and long-term career goals.
Clear career intentions can be expressed in the personal statement, “Why this school?” essays, and during admissions interviews.
Strong Communication Skills
Medical schools expect international applicants to have clear, empathetic, and fluent English communication skills, both written and spoken.
Strong communication skills are shown in the personal statement, secondary essays, TOEFL or IELTS scores, and admissions interviews.
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Requirements for International Students Applying to US Medical Schools
Here are the standard requirements for international students applying to U.S. medical schools, according to the AAMC.
1. GPA Requirements for International Students
GPA expectations for international applicants are often higher than for U.S. citizens due to limited seats available. Many medical schools expect GPAs at or above 3.7 on a 4.0 scale to remain competitive, especially in science coursework.
A strong GPA reassures admissions committees that you can handle the rigorous academic demands of medical school. If your GPA is slightly lower, a high MCAT score or exceptional research and clinical experiences in the U.S. can help balance your application.
2. MCAT For International Students
The MCAT is mandatory for nearly all medical schools, and international applicants must meet or exceed each school’s median score. Competitive scores are often closer to the 75th percentile or higher, since available seats for non-U.S. citizens are limited.
3. English Language Proficiency
If English is not your first language, proof of proficiency through exams such as the TOEFL or IELTS may be required. Strong communication skills are essential for clinical training and patient interaction.
The most commonly accepted English Language Proficiency Tests in the U.S. include:
Cambridge Assessment English (CAE)
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
4. Financial Documentation
Because international students are not eligible for U.S. federal financial aid, schools often require proof of ability to pay for tuition and living expenses. Some programs ask for funds to be deposited in escrow or certified bank statements covering the entire attendance cost.
5. Visa Requirements
Accepted applicants must secure an appropriate student visa before matriculation, usually the F-1 visa. Some schools also provide support for visa applications, but require students to manage the process early.
Admissions committees want evidence that you can adapt to the U.S. healthcare system. Volunteering, shadowing physicians, or engaging in research at U.S. institutions shows you understand the cultural and professional context of practicing medicine in the United States.
7. Proof of Eligibility
Before proceeding with your application, you must ensure that you are eligible. You can check your eligibility by researching your target school’s specific requirements.
For example, some foreign documentation (transcripts, courses, diplomas, etc.) may not be valid in the U.S. You may need to have your documents approved by an accredited institution.
If this is the case, your target school will have information on its website to direct you to validate your documentation. Your eligibility may depend on your approved documents, so don’t skip this step.
8. University Transcripts
Any U.S. medical school you apply to as an international student will require academic transcripts. The AMCAS does not accept international transcripts or verify coursework that has not been accredited by a U.S., U.S. Territorial, or Canadian post-secondary institution.
If your transcripts are from an international school, you must follow the directions on the AMCAS website to enter coursework and request transcripts.
9. Letters of Recommendation
Strong letters of recommendation are key for international students applying to U.S. medical schools. Choose recommenders who know you well and can write in English. Make sure they understand U.S. medical school expectations.
You may need to pay to translate and accredit your documents. Follow application guidelines closely. Keep in touch with your recommenders and show appreciation for their support. This approach boosts your chances of success.
10. Premed Courses
International applicants must complete the same foundational premedical coursework as U.S. students. This typically includes one year each of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics, all with laboratory components, plus courses in English and mathematics.
Some schools also recommend or require additional biochemistry, psychology, or sociology classes. Completing these prerequisites at a U.S. or Canadian institution is strongly preferred, as it assures admissions committees that you are prepared for the scientific rigor of medical education in the U.S.
11. Additional Documentation
Every medical school has its own individual requirements. Make sure that you’ve read the international eligibility requirements for your target schools carefully. If you don’t, you may be required to provide additional documentation.
12. Secondary Application Requirements
After submitting the AMCAS primary application, international students must complete secondary applications for each U.S. medical school that invites them. Secondary applications are often school-specific and include essay prompts to assess fit, values, and long-term goals.
For international applicants, secondary essays carry added weight because admissions committees want reassurance that you understand the school’s mission and have thought carefully about training in the U.S. healthcare system.
Boost Your Med School Odds with Inspira Advantage
Inspira Advantage can be a game-changer for international medical graduates like Kian from Grenada, who faced tough odds and complex application processes in securing a U.S. residency.
With personalized guidance and strategic application support from Inspira, Kian overcame these challenges and matched with his first-choice program at Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center.
Med school application help for international applicants focuses on navigating admissions requirements, understanding school-specific policies, highlighting diverse backgrounds, and strengthening key parts of the application, such as personal statements and extracurriculars.
Inspira Advantage guides international students through every step of the process, from school selection to interview preparation, to help them build a competitive application.
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How Can International Students Finance Medical School?
Financing medical school as an international student is often one of the most significant hurdles, since U.S. federal loans and many state-based aid programs are unavailable to non-citizens. However, there are several pathways to cover the high cost of tuition and living expenses:
1. Institutional Scholarships and Grants
Some U.S. medical schools reserve limited scholarships or need-based aid for international students. These awards are competitive and vary widely by institution, but they can significantly offset costs for high-achieving applicants.
2. Private Loans With a U.S. Co-Signer
Most private lenders require a creditworthy U.S. co-signer, such as a relative or close family friend, before offering loans. Interest rates and repayment terms depend on the co-signer’s credit history, but this is the most common route for international students without personal savings to cover tuition.
3. International Student Loans Without a Co-Signer
A growing number of lenders, such as MPOWER Financing or Prodigy Finance, specialize in loans for international students without requiring a co-signer. While these loans often come with higher interest rates, they provide access to funding when other options are unavailable.
4. Personal or Family Funds
Some students rely on savings or family contributions to finance medical education. Because many schools require proof of financial ability before admission, students may need to demonstrate sufficient resources to cover several years of study upfront.
5. Service-Linked Opportunities
In rare cases, international graduates may be eligible for programs that offer loan forgiveness or stipends in exchange for practicing in underserved areas. These are usually limited to U.S. citizens, but some institutions extend research assistantships or teaching roles that provide stipends or partial tuition coverage.
6. Strategic Planning
Applicants should carefully research each school’s financial policies before applying. Demonstrating a realistic and proactive funding plan helps secure admission and reduces the risk of unexpected financial challenges during training.
Less than 17 in 100 international applicants make it to med school—ensure you're 1 of them
Scholarships & Financial Aid for International Students
Federal financial aid may be available to you as an international student. You can visit the Federal Student Aid website to verify your eligibility for federal student aid. It is important to note the different eligibility criteria for non-U.S. citizens.
Institutional loans and scholarships may be available to you through your medical school. Most international students access funding through their school or private loans. Check your target school’s websites for news about their international student scholarships and funding opportunities.
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Best Strategies to Apply for Scholarships for International Students
To secure scholarships for studying in the USA as an international student, it's essential to follow these strategies.
1. Use Your Medical School’s Financial Aid Office and Internal Resources
International students should not limit themselves to public scholarship listings. Every medical school has a financial aid office, which often tracks which scholarships international students have successfully received in past application cycles.
Ask the financial aid office directly whether previous international students at that school were awarded institutional scholarships or grants, and which funding sources were most accessible. This targeted approach saves time and allows you to prioritize scholarships that are realistically within your reach.
2. Start Scholarship Applications Early to Build Relationships With Recommenders
Most competitive scholarships require recommendation letters, and the strongest letters come from mentors who know you well. International students should begin their scholarship search at least one year in advance so they can intentionally place themselves in U.S.-based research roles, volunteer positions, or clinical shadowing opportunities. This timeline allows recommenders to observe your contributions and write letters that prove your value as a medical student.
3. Research Niche Scholarships Beyond International Student Listings
International students often miss opportunities because they only apply to scholarships labeled as “for international students.” A more effective strategy is to research scholarships that target other demographics or missions but still allow international eligibility.
For example, some awards are available to first-generation students, applicants pursuing global health, or students from specific geographic regions. Even if these scholarships are not branded as “medical school scholarships,” they can often be applied toward tuition or living costs.
4. Check Scholarship Eligibility Rules Carefully for Visa and Residency Exceptions
Many scholarships appear closed to international students at first glance, but the fine print may reveal exceptions. Some awards listed as “U.S. citizens only” also accept permanent residents, DACA recipients, or applicants with pending green cards. Others may specifically accept students holding F-1 visas or allow applicants who have Optional Practical Training (OPT) approval.
International students should carefully review eligibility criteria and contact program administrators when clarification is needed. Misinterpreting eligibility is one of the most common reasons applicants self-eliminate unnecessarily.
5. Use TOEFL or IELTS Test Scores to Qualify for Additional Scholarships
Because international students are often required to take exams like TOEFL or IELTS for admission, these scores can also be used to apply for scholarships. Many awards for international students require proof of English proficiency, and a high test score can strengthen both your admissions file and your scholarship eligibility.
Students should identify scholarships that accept TOEFL or IELTS scores and leverage their strong performance across multiple applications.
6. Create a Scholarship Portfolio With Reusable Application Materials
International students save significant time by creating a “scholarship portfolio.” This portfolio should include a resume, a financial need statement, a personal statement, translated and accredited transcripts, and proof of international status.
By preparing these documents in advance, applicants can quickly adapt them to specific scholarships. This strategy allows students to apply to both large institutional awards and smaller, fast-turnaround scholarships without starting from scratch each time.
7. Track the Return on Investment (ROI) of Each Scholarship Application
Not all scholarships provide the same benefit compared to the time required to apply. International students should maintain a spreadsheet that lists award size, application requirements, deadlines, and eligibility odds.
For example, spending ten hours on an application for a $500 award may be less valuable than spending the same time on a $20,000 institutional scholarship. Tracking return on investment ensures that international applicants use their limited time to maximize financial outcomes.
8. Follow Up With Scholarship Committees to Build Professional Relationships
After submitting applications, international students should not assume their role is finished. Following up with scholarship committees is a chance to confirm receipt, express gratitude, and demonstrate professionalism.
A well-written follow-up can also keep you on a committee’s radar if funds are reallocated or waitlists open. In some cases, committees have extended awards to persistent applicants who showed genuine interest in supporting opportunities for international students.
Med school admissions consultants in the USA can help international students navigate the unique challenges of applying from abroad. Inspira Advantage provides tailored support for international students, from selecting the right schools to crafting strong, compelling applications.
With medical schools becoming increasingly competitive for international applicants, working with experienced consultants who know how to make you stand out can give you the edge you need to get accepted.
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Medical Schools That Accept International Students
According to the Medical School Admissions Requirements (MSAR) provided by the AAMC, 41 accredited MD programs in the U.S. accepted applications from international students in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle.
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
CUNY School of Medicine
Duke University School of Medicine
Emory University School of Medicine
Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama
Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
Harvard Medical School
Howard University College of Medicine
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Meharry Medical College
Northwestern University The Feinberg School of Medicine
NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine
NYU Grossman School of Medicine
Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine
Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School
Saint Louis University School of Medicine
Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University
Stanford University School of Medicine
State University of New York Upstate Medical University Alan and Marlene Norton College of Medicine
The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine at Belmont University
Tulane University School of Medicine
University of California, Davis, School of Medicine
University of Chicago Division of the Biological Sciences The Pritzker School of Medicine
University of Colorado School of Medicine
University of Connecticut School of Medicine
University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine
University of Illinois College of Medicine
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine
University of Virginia School of Medicine
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine
West Virginia University School of Medicine
Yale School of Medicine
It’s important to note that each school’s international admission requirements vary depending on where you’re applying from. If you aren’t sure about your target school’s international admissions requirements, check their website or speak to an admissions counselor.
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Special Considerations for Medical School as an International Student
Aside from additional documentation, there are other factors to consider. Here are the best strategies for international students applying to U.S. medical schools.
School Selection
Less than a third of U.S. medical schools accept international students. While there are still many schools to choose from, you may have fewer options than you would in your home country.
To ensure that you choose the right program for you, make sure that your target schools have plenty of resources for international students. Your schools of choice should also offer a program tailored to precisely what you’re looking for. Avoid settling for a school that doesn’t have every resource you’re looking for simply due to a lack of options.
Competition
Applying to medical school in the USA as an international student is even more competitive than the regular application process. You’ll be competing for limited spots against other qualified candidates from around the globe, so do your research.
Your school will want to know how passionate you are about their program and why it suits you. When writing your essays and personal statement, be sure to include specific things about the school that interest you and why. The more tailored your answers are to a particular program, the better.
Additional Expenses
Studying in another country will add expenses, some of which may be unexpected. Researching the average cost of living, rent, groceries, etc., in your new city will help you plan a realistic budget.
When considering your costs, you should factor in exchange rates. Currency can make a significant difference in the affordability of a new country. Your travel expenses, including visits home for holidays, should also be included in your budget.
Social Challenges
Moving to a new country can be a social challenge. If you’re not someone who makes friends quickly, you may want to consider signing up for clubs, the student council, or other extracurricular activities.
Medical school will keep you busy, but allocating some time to make friends is essential. Having a support system will help you feel welcome in your new home.
Top 10 Best Medical Schools in the USA For International Students
The table below depicts the top 10 best medical schools in the USA for international students, based on our research. We ranked schools using a combination of data and qualitative factors that matter most to international applicants:
International Student Acceptance Rate (MSAR Data, 2024–2025):The most important factor in our rankings was the actual matriculation rate for international students, calculated by dividing the number of international matriculants by the number of international applicants at each school. This concrete data from the AAMC Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) provided the foundation for our list.
Historical Consistency in Accepting International Students:We prioritized schools with a reliable track record of admitting international students across multiple cycles, not just one exceptional year.
Research and Clinical Opportunities:Schools with strong NIH funding, global health initiatives, and teaching hospital networks were ranked higher, as these resources are particularly valuable for international applicants seeking training and future residency placements.
Location and Patient Diversity:We considered geographic and demographic factors, giving preference to schools in urban centers or regions with diverse patient populations, which provide international students with broader cultural and clinical exposure.
Global Reputation and Alumni Network:Lastly, we factored in each school’s worldwide recognition and alumni network. A globally respected degree can be especially advantageous for students planning to return to their home country or pursue international career paths after training.
Medical School
Our Ranking for the Best Medical Schools in the USA for International Students
Please note that these are approximate acceptance rates and refer to the percentage of matriculants and deferred students compared to verified applications. Medical schools often don’t release data about accepted applicants and verified applications.
More Details About the Best Medical Schools in the USA For International Students
Below, we’ll discuss the best medical schools in the USA with the most international students. Applying to these schools may increase your chance of getting accepted as an international student.
1. Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania tops our list because it admitted 9 international students out of 414 applicants in the 2024–2025 cycle, giving it the highest acceptance rate (2.17%) among U.S. medical schools. That means 97.83% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Perelman School of Medicine are just over 2 in 100.
Beyond the numbers, the Perelman School of Medicine offers international students dual-degree options (like MD/MBA and MD/MPH), cutting-edge biomedical research, and clinical exposure through its integrated hospital network. For international applicants concerned about both training quality and residency placement, Perelman School of Medicine offers the ideal balance of prestige and opportunity.
2. Harvard Medical School
Harvard Medical School admitted 10 international students out of 498 applicants in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, resulting in a 2.01% acceptance rate. That means 97.99% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Harvard are about 2 in 100.
The relatively high acceptance rate makes Harvard Medical School not only one of the most prestigious schools in the world, but also one of the most welcoming to international students compared to peer institutions.
Its extensive global health programs, cutting-edge labs, and reputation for academic rigor attract students from around the world. For international applicants, Harvard Medical School’s brand name alone carries unmatched weight globally, which is especially valuable for those who may return to practice in their home countries.
3. David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA admitted 13 international students out of 700 applicants in 2024–2025, giving it a 1.86% acceptance rate. That means 98.14% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at the David Geffen School of Medicine are fewer than 2 in 100.
David Geffen School of Medicine has the highest number of matriculated international students on this list. It has a strong track record that consistently makes it an appealing choice for international applicants.
The school’s Los Angeles location offers diverse clinical training across one of the most varied patient populations in the U.S. Combined with UCLA’s research strengths and lower tuition relative to other top schools, it is one of the best-value options for international applicants.
4. Yale School of Medicine
Yale School of Medicine had 9 international matriculants out of 490 applicants in 2024-2025, resulting in an international student acceptance rate of 1.84%. This suggests that 98.16% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Yale School of Medicine are fewer than 2 in 100.
Yale School of Medicine’s flexible curriculum and required research thesis make it particularly attractive for international students interested in academic medicine or physician-scientist careers.
Its location in New Haven also provides access to diverse patient care, while Yale School of Medicine’s strong alumni network opens doors worldwide. For international applicants looking to pair clinical training with scholarly work, Yale School of Medicine is an excellent choice.
5. Stanford University School of Medicine
Stanford University School of Medicine had 8 international students matriculate from 601 applicants in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, resulting in a 1.33% acceptance rate. This suggests that 98.67% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Stanford University School of Medicine are just over 1 in 100.
Though competitive, Stanford University School of Medicine stands out for its interdisciplinary focus and ties to Silicon Valley, making it a top destination for students interested in medical innovation and entrepreneurship.
International students also benefit from Stanford University School of Medicine’s generous research funding and global collaborations. For those aiming to combine medicine with technology or public health, Stanford University School of Medicine’s programs offer unmatched opportunities.
6. Duke University School of Medicine
In the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, Duke University School of Medicine had 4 international students matriculate from 441 applicants, resulting in a 0.91% acceptance rate. That means 99.09% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Duke University School of Medicine are fewer than 1 in 100.
Duke University School of Medicine’s relatively small class size and accelerated three-year preclinical curriculum make it an excellent option for ambitious international students.
Duke University School of Medicine also emphasizes global health, with programs that allow students to work in underserved areas worldwide. For internationals looking to bridge medicine with service and research, Duke University School of Medicine offers a strong balance of course rigor and impact.
7. Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine had 4 international students matriculate out of 453 applicants in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, resulting in a 0.88% acceptance rate. That means 99.12% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine are fewer than 1 in 100.
While selectivity is steep at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, the school is known for offering generous merit-based scholarships, even to international students.
Combined with its strong NIH funding and emphasis on research, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine is an appealing option for those seeking both financial support and research-intensive training.
8. Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
In the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine had 3 international students matriculate from 403 applicants, resulting in a 0.74% acceptance rate. That means 99.26% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine are fewer than 1 in 100.
While Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine acceptance is highly competitive, the school’s global prestige in medicine and research makes it an excellent target.
For international applicants aiming to pursue academic medicine, research, or highly specialized training, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine's reputation and resources are unmatched, even if the odds of acceptance are relatively slim.
9. Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
At Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, 1 international student matriculated from 187 applicants in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, resulting in a 0.53% acceptance rate. That means 99.47% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine are about 1 in 200.
Though few internationals are accepted, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine remains a standout option because of its unparalleled clinical training environment and integration with the Mayo Clinic hospital system.
Its small class sizes and patient-centered curriculum make for highly personalized training, which is a major advantage for the few international students who gain admission.
10. Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
In the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai had 2 international students matriculate from 540 applicants, resulting in a 0.37% acceptance rate. That means 99.63% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai are about 1 in 270.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai has the lowest acceptance rate on this list. However, it earns a place here because it continues to admit non-U.S. citizens and offers strong programs in urban health, research, and social justice.
That means 99.6% of international applicants were rejected, and your odds of matriculating at Mount Sinai are about 1 in 270.
Its location in New York City provides diverse clinical experiences and unique opportunities for international students to train in one of the most multicultural healthcare systems in the U.S.
Top-10 Cheapest U.S. Medical Schools for International Students
The table below depicts the top 10 cheapest U.S. medical schools for international students.
Medical School
Our Ranking for the Cheapest Medical Schools in the USA for International Students
Tuition Fee for International Students
Number of International Applicants
Number of Matriculated International Students
Acceptance Rate for International Students
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
#1
$57,093
700
13
1.86%
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
#2
$65,920
187
1
0.53%
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
#3
$66,874
403
3
0.74%
Stanford University School of Medicine
#4
$68,492
601
8
1.33%
Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
#5
$68,795
453
4
0.88%
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
#6
$70,653
540
2
0.37%
Harvard Medical School
#7
$73,221
498
10
2.01%
Yale School of Medicine
#8
$73,495
490
9
1.84%
Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
#9
$74,687
414
9
2.17%
Duke University School of Medicine
#10
$74,849
441
4
0.91%
FAQs
1. Can International Students Get Into Medical School In The USA?
Yes, international students can get into medical school in the USA. Successful applicants usually have a high GPA and MCAT score, U.S.-based clinical or research experience, and proof of financial resources, since federal student aid is not available.
2. How Many U.S. Medical Schools Accept International Students?
According to the AAMC's Medical School Admission Requirements, 41 U.S. MD programs accepted international applicants in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle. Policies differ between schools, so international applicants should verify each school's specific admissions stance.
3. How Many International Students Apply for Medical School in the U.S.?
According to the AAMC, about 1,890 international students applied to U.S. medical schools in 2019. Of those, 325 were accepted and 272 matriculated, meaning international applicants made up roughly 1–2% of all new medical students nationwide. With limited seats available at only about 50 schools, acceptance rates for international students are significantly lower than for U.S. citizens.
4. Can International Students Take the MCAT?
The short answer is yes! Some medical schools will require the MCAT for international students, as they usually require it as part of the application.
5. Is It Harder to Get Into Medical School as an International Student?
Yes, it’s more challenging to get into medical school as an international student. This is because medical schools accept fewer international students compared to in-state or out-of-state students, so the odds of matriculation are extremely low.
6. Can International Students Get Student Loans in the U.S.?
Yes, international students can get student loans in the U.S. For more information, check the basic eligibility requirements for U.S. Federal Student Aid.
7. Can I Attend Medical School With a Visitor Visa?
No, you cannot attend medical school with a visitor visa as an international student. International students must have a student visa to attend medical school in the U.S.
8. How Can International Students Finance a U.S. Medical School?
International students cannot access U.S. federal loans. Still, they can finance medical school through a mix of institutional scholarships, private loans with a U.S. co-signer, and specialized lenders like MPOWER or Prodigy Finance that don’t require co-signers. Some medical schools also offer limited merit-based aid, and students may rely on personal or family funds. Demonstrating a clear funding plan is often required before matriculation.
9. Do International Students Need Pre-Med for U.S. Medical Schools?
Yes, international students must complete the same pre-med prerequisites as U.S. applicants. This typically includes one year each of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics with labs, plus courses in English and mathematics. Many schools strongly prefer or require that these courses be taken at an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution to ensure applicants are prepared for the rigor of medical school.
Final Thoughts
Attending medical school as an international student can be an exciting experience. However, as an international student, you will face some additional hurdles.
Make sure to check your SEVP-approved school’s international admissions requirements thoroughly. You can always speak with an academic advisor or international liaison at your school if you have questions. Additionally, Inspira Advantage offers complete med school application support for international students.
Dr. Jonathan Preminger was the original author of this article. Snippets of his work may remain.
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Perplexity
Grok
Claude
Copilot
Google AI
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