FAQ Admission

Ponce School of Medicine
Admissions Office
PO Box 7004
Ponce PR 00732
TEL (787) 840-2575 EXT 2142, 2143
FAX (787) 842-0461, 840-9756
EMAIL: admissions@psm.edu

Are the classes taught in English or in Spanish?

Either or both languages, depending on the preference of the instructors. Textbooks and exams are in English, however, students must be fully bilingual in English and Spanish. Patient interaction is conducted in Spanish Six credits of college level Spanish are required.

Can I take the required six credits of Spanish at an undergraduate institution that is not the primary school that I attended?

Yes, you may take them at any undergraduate institution.

I did not take Spanish in college; instead, I took Spanish in high school. US colleges do not require a foreign language in college if the students have a minimum of two years in high school. College credits are necessary or will my experience in high school be sufficient?

College Spanish is an absolute requirement for all applicants. Local residents are required to take Spanish courses too and are not exempt from this requirement.

What is your policy regarding acceptance of non-resident applicants? Do you accept international students?

Non-resident applicants are considered, however, preference is given to PR residents. International students are accepted regardless of nationality as long as they have completed their undergraduate education in an accredited institution within the US.

My MCAT score was below the requirement. What can I do?

Repeat the MCAT. An applicant may repeat this test no more than three times in a year.

If I obtain a medical degree from Ponce School of Medicine, can I practice anywhere?

Ponce School of Medicine is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). Our graduates can hold residency through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) and Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS).

Do you require a secondary application?

No secondary application is required. However the AMCAS application is received by theAdmissions Office, the applicant will receive an email with general information and a list of required documents which are: three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, $100.00 application fee and a Police Record/Background Check.

Which undergraduate majors does the Admissions Committee prefer?

Any science major

What courses are recommended for preparation for medical school?

Biochemistry, Immunology, Histology and Microbiology are recommended.

Will the Admissions Committee pay particular attention to my performance in certain courses?

The Committee will pay attention to all science courses taken.

My transcript shows several withdrawals from courses. How will the Committee on Admissions view this?

More than two withdrawals are not favorable.

Should I repeat courses in which I did not do well, even though I passed them?

Not necessary

What is the minimum cumulative GPA?

Minimum GPA of 2.5

What does the Committee consider other than grades?

MCAT scores, interview report, recommendation letters, research, hospital voluntary work, community service, awards, publications and years to complete a BS degree.

When should I take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)?

It is recommended that the MCAT be taken the year before entering the Program.

What is the basic interview procedure?

The Admissions Committee evaluates candidates who meet the minimum requirements for admission. These candidates are invited for an interview conducted by two faculty members in groups or alone (this depends on the availability of the interviewers).

When does the Medical School begin interviews?

The interview process begins in November.

What is the Early Decision Program?

The Early Decision Program (EDP) allows applicants to secure an acceptance from one EDP-participating medical school by October 1 while allowing sufficient time to apply to other schools if not accepted.

What about recommendations from prominent persons?

These are not recommended; three letters of recommendation are required, at least, two must be from science professors and one from individuals familiar with the applicant’s professional work and skills.

Does the Admissions Committee place great emphasis on extracurricular activities?

Yes, extracurricular activities are considered.

Is working in some health care activity considered to be important preparation for medical school by the Admissions Committee?

Not necessarily

How is the alternate list made up?

The Alternate List is made up of qualified candidates whose credentials are borderline.

Does a rejection mean that I am totally incapable of passing the work in medical school?

Not necessarily

Do I need a physical health examination before starting medical school?

Yes, the Admissions Office will provide the student with a form for this purpose.

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