How to Get Into Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (2025)

How Hard Is It to Get Into Keck School of Medicine?

The Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC) is a highly prestigious institution recognized for its dedication to advancing human health through innovative medical education, groundbreaking research, and exceptional patient care.

Admission to USC Keck School is extremely competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 2.3%, and the Class of 2028 has a median MCAT score of 517 and an average GPA of 3.85. These figures highlight the caliber of students accepted into the program and the school’s emphasis on academic excellence.

In the 2024-2025 national rankings, Keck stands at tier 2 in primary care and research among the top medical schools in the United States, known for its strong focus on clinical medicine, medical research, and training future leaders in healthcare. The school’s reputation for producing accomplished physicians and researchers further underscores its commitment to excellence.

Keck’s competitive admissions process reflects its mission to select candidates who are not only academically exceptional but also passionate about improving healthcare access, addressing health equity, and serving underserved communities. These qualities, combined with its rigorous standards, make Keck a top choice for aspiring medical professionals.

Programs Offered by Keck School of Medicine

Keck offers a diverse range of programs to cater to various interests in the medical field:

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) - A comprehensive program designed to train physician-citizen-scholars through a curriculum that integrates foundational science with clinical practice.
• MD/PhD Program - For students interested in a career in academic medicine and research, this combined program offers rigorous training in both clinical medicine and biomedical research opportunities.
• Master of Science in Global Medicine - This program prepares students to address health issues in a global context, emphasizing cultural competence and international health systems.
• Master of Public Health (MPH) - Offered through the Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, this program focuses on improving population health and addressing public health challenges.
• Physician Assistant (PA) Program - Aimed at training skilled healthcare providers, this program emphasizes primary care and preventive medicine.
• Nurse Anesthesia Program - This program prepares registered nurses to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), providing high-quality anesthesia care.

One of the key advantages of attending the Keck School of Medicine is its close partnership with Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), a top-ranked pediatric hospital. This affiliation provides medical students with unparalleled opportunities to gain hands-on experience in pediatric care and engage in cutting-edge research addressing the health needs of children.

Through rotations at CHLA, students can explore specialties such as neonatology, pediatric oncology, and pediatric surgery, enriching their clinical training and broadening their exposure to diverse patient populations.

Admissions Requirements — Who Gets Into Keck School of Medicine?

Keck School of Medicine welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, including both in-state and out-of-state students. They seek applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, a commitment to service, and the potential to contribute to the medical profession.

Keck School of Medicine Admissions Stats: MCAT, GPA & Class Profile

The Class of 2028 at Keck showcases a diverse and accomplished group of students:

• Median MCAT Score: 517
• Average GPA: 3.85
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 2.3%
• Class Size: Around 186 students

Admissions Statistics

What MCAT Score Do You Need for Keck School of Medicine?

A competitive MCAT score for Keck is around 517, aligning with the median score of admitted students. While there is no official cutoff, applicants should aim for a high score to strengthen their application. The admissions committee considers all MCAT scores and evaluates candidates holistically, taking into account academic achievements, experiences, and personal attributes.

Bonus: How to Get Into Keck School of Medicine With a Low MCAT

• Enhance other application components, such as your GPA, clinical experience, and letters of recommendation, to showcase your strengths.
• Consider retaking the MCAT after thorough preparation to improve your score.
• Highlight unique experiences and personal qualities in your personal statement and interviews that demonstrate your suitability for a medical career.

What GPA Do You Need for Keck School of Medicine?

An average GPA of 3.85 is typical among admitted students at Keck Medicine School. While there is no minimum GPA requirement, maintaining a high GPA, particularly in science courses, is crucial. The admissions committee evaluates academic performance alongside other factors to assess an applicant's readiness for the rigors of medical education.

Bonus: How to Get Into Keck School of Medicine With a Low GPA

• Achieve a high MCAT score to offset a lower GPA and demonstrate academic competence.
• Engage in post-baccalaureate or graduate coursework to improve your academic record.
• Emphasize relevant experiences, such as research, clinical work, or community service, that showcase your commitment and skills.

How to Apply to Keck School of Medicine

Keck School of Medicine Application Deadlines (2025)

• AMCAS Application Deadline: November 1, 2024
• Keck Supplemental Application Deadline: December 1, 2024

Keck School of Medicine — Application Overview

• Primary application - Submit through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) with official transcripts and MCAT scores.
• Secondary application - Complete and submit the supplemental application provided by Keck School of Medicine, including essays tailored to the school’s mission and values.
• Letters of recommendation - At least three letters are required, ideally from faculty or professionals familiar with your academic and professional qualifications.
• Application fee - A non-refundable $100 application fee must be submitted with the secondary application.
• Additional requirements - Include a detailed resume of extracurricular activities, clinical experience, and research work.

Letters of Recommendation

Strong letters of recommendation can provide the admissions committee with insight into your academic abilities, character, and potential as a physician. Select recommenders who know you well, such as professors, research mentors, or clinical supervisors, and can speak to your strengths with specific examples. Be sure to give your recommenders adequate time to write and provide them with your resume, personal statement, and relevant instructions.

Secondaries

The secondary application is a crucial opportunity to differentiate yourself. Address how your values and experiences align with Keck School of Medicine’s mission, including their focus on health equity, clinical medicine, and serving underserved communities. Use this platform to highlight unique aspects of your background, such as leadership roles, international experiences, or impactful community service.

Read: Mastering Secondary Essay Prompts in Medical School Applications

Interviews

Keck School of Medicine conducts traditional interviews, where applicants meet with faculty and admissions committee members. This is your chance to showcase your communication skills, professionalism, and alignment with Keck’s mission. Prepare by practicing responses to common med school interview questions, reflecting on your application materials, and researching Keck’s programs. Show enthusiasm for the opportunity and ask thoughtful questions about the school.

Watch: How to Nail Your Medical School Interview

Keck School of Medicine MD Eligibility

Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a commitment to the medical field to be eligible for admission to the Keck School of Medicine. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required, and solid performance in science-related coursework is essential to preparing for the rigorous medical curriculum. Additionally, candidates must have taken the MCAT within the past three years, and have a competitive score (currently a median of 517 for admitted students) reflecting their academic readiness and critical thinking skills.

The school places significant emphasis on clinical experience, such as shadowing physicians, volunteering in healthcare settings, or working as a medical scribe. These experiences provide insight into patient care and demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to the profession. Furthermore, participation in medical research and community service initiatives highlights a dedication to advancing human health and addressing health needs in diverse populations. Such activities also reflect key qualities Keck values, including leadership, teamwork, and the ability to address healthcare disparities.

Prerequisite Courses

Applicants must have completed the following foundational coursework to ensure they are academically prepared for medical school:

• Systems Biology: One year with laboratory experience.
• Chemistry: Two years, including general and organic chemistry.
• Physics: One year with laboratory experience.
• Biochemistry (Recommended): While not mandatory, biochemistry is highly recommended to strengthen preparation for advanced medical studies.

5 Expert Tips on How to Get Into Keck School of Medicine

1. Apply early – The Keck School of Medicine has a rolling admissions process, meaning that applications are reviewed as they are received. Submitting your primary application via AMCAS and secondary application as early as possible can significantly increase your chances of being reviewed and considered for an interview. The early submission also shows your eagerness and professionalism.
2. Highlight clinical and research experience – Admissions committees at Keck value candidates with a strong foundation in clinical medicine and medical research. Include hands-on experiences such as shadowing physicians, working as a medical scribe, or volunteering in hospitals. If you’ve contributed to research projects, detail your role and any findings, as these demonstrate your ability to engage with science and apply it to improve human health.
3. Focus on service and community engagement – Keck places a strong emphasis on addressing underserved communities and promoting health equity. Volunteer work at free clinics, leadership roles in community health initiatives, or projects aimed at reducing healthcare disparities are highly valued. These experiences not only demonstrate your commitment to public service but also align with Keck’s mission of improving healthcare access for all.
4. Write thoughtful and tailored essays – Your personal statement and responses to secondary prompts are your chance to make a lasting impression. Use these essays to share meaningful stories that illustrate your motivation, resilience, and alignment with Keck’s mission. Be specific about how your experiences and medical career goals connect with the school’s focus on exceptional care, innovative research, and advancing healthcare in Southern California and beyond.
5. Prepare thoroughly for interviews – The interview stage at Keck assesses not only your academic readiness but also your communication skills, professionalism, and alignment with the school’s values. Research the school’s programs and initiatives, such as the Keck Hospital partnerships in Los Angeles and its emphasis on health equity. Practice answering common medical school interview questions and prepare to discuss your experiences and aspirations clearly. Mock interviews can help you build confidence and refine your responses.

The Bottom Line

• Keck School of Medicine is a top-tier institution with a strong emphasis on medical research, clinical medicine, and improving public health.
• Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.85 and an MCAT score of 517.
• Deadlines for the 2025 application cycle are November 1, 2024 (AMCAS) and December 1, 2024 (secondary).
• Keck offers a variety of programs, including dual degrees, global health tracks, and opportunities in family medicine and molecular biology.

Ready to pursue your dream of attending Keck School of Medicine? Reach out to top medical school coaches for personalized guidance.