Q&A from the Osteopathic Medicine Webinar with AACOM
Application and Admissions Process
Q: What is the earliest I can apply to the 2025-2026 cycle using the AACOMAS application?
A: The AACOMAS application typically opens on the first Monday of May each year. For the 2025-2026 cycle, applications will open on May 5, 2025.
Q: Can I start my AACOMAS application while waiting for my MCAT score?
A: Yes, you can submit your application without your MCAT score. Once you receive your score, you can add it to your application later.
Q: How does AACOMAS handle repeated coursework?
A: AACOMAS averages repeated courses into your GPA calculation rather than replacing the previous grade.
Q: Do all DO schools require the MCAT?
A: Yes, the MCAT is required by all osteopathic medical schools as part of the application process.
Q: Are letters of recommendation from osteopathic physicians absolutely needed for applicants?
A: Some DO schools require a letter from a DO, while others allow letters from MDs or other professionals. It is highly recommended to have a letter from a DO to demonstrate your commitment to osteopathic medicine.
Q: Can I apply to a DO school before completing all prerequisite coursework?
A: Yes, but you must indicate that you are currently completing the required courses. Schools may conditionally accept you pending completion.
Q: How many hours of clinical experience are typically required?
A: While there is no official minimum, competitive applicants often have 100-300 hours of direct clinical experience.
Osteopathic Medicine and Curriculum
Q: What makes DO different from MD?
A: DOs are trained in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), which emphasizes a whole person, hands-on approach to diagnosing and treating patients. DOs also follow the same medical training as MDs.
Q: What is osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), and how is it used?
A: OMM is a hands-on technique used by DOs to diagnose and treat conditions by manipulating the musculoskeletal system, helping alleviate pain and improve body function.
Q: Are there variations in OMM based on patient populations?
A: Yes, OMM techniques can be modified for pediatric, geriatric, and other specific patient populations to optimize care.
Q: How does osteopathic medicine integrate nutrition and preventive care?
A: DOs emphasize prevention and lifestyle factors, including nutrition, exercise, and holistic wellness, as part of their treatment philosophy.
Residency and Career Opportunities
Q: Are DOs competitive in matching into residency programs?
A: Yes, DOs match into all specialties, and since the residency merger in 2020, DO and MD students apply through a unified residency system.
Q: Can DOs become surgeons?
A: Yes, DOs can specialize in all fields of medicine, including surgery, provided they meet the program requirements.
Q: What percentage of DOs work in private practice?
A: Approximately 50-60% of DOs work in private practice, though this varies based on specialty and location.
Q: Is there a specific commitment to serving rural medicine in DO programs?
A: Many DO schools have a mission to train physicians who will work in underserved and rural communities, but it is not a requirement.
Q: How often do DOs need to recertify their license?
A: DOs must complete continuing medical education (CME) requirements and pass periodic recertification exams, typically every 6-10 years.
International Students and Practice Rights
Q: Can DOs practice internationally?
A: Yes, but licensure varies by country. Some nations recognize DOs as fully licensed physicians, while others require additional credentialing.
Q: Are DO programs friendly to Canadian applicants?
A: Yes, several DO schools accept Canadian applicants, though they should check individual school policies on prerequisites and licensing.
Q: Would an international student have better chances applying to a DO school versus an MD school?
A: It depends on the applicant’s profile. Some DO schools are open to international applicants, but visa status and future residency options should be considered.
Non-Traditional and Reapplicant Considerations
Q: Are DO schools friendly to non-traditional applicants?
A: Yes, many DO schools accept non-traditional students, including those with prior careers, advanced degrees, or post-baccalaureate coursework.
Q: Will DO schools accept prerequisite coursework completed years ago?
A: Some schools require recent coursework (within 5-10 years), but policies vary. Applicants should check specific school requirements.
Q: If I have a master’s degree, how will my GPA be calculated?
A: Graduate coursework is considered separately from undergraduate GPA, but it can strengthen an application if performed well.
Q: Do DO schools accept committee letters for recommendations?
A: Yes, most DO schools accept committee letters, though some may still require an individual letter from a DO.
General Questions About the Process
Q: Can I save letters of recommendation from one application cycle to another?
A: Yes, AACOMAS allows applicants to reuse letters from previous cycles if the evaluators do not need to submit new ones.
Q: What is the difference between rolling admissions and deadline-based admissions?
A: Rolling admissions means applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying earlier increases chances of interviews and acceptances.
Q: Is there a recommended number of extracurricular activities?
A: Quality matters more than quantity. Competitive applicants often have strong experiences in clinical exposure, leadership, and community service.
Q: How are science GPAs calculated?
A: Science GPA includes biology, chemistry, physics, and math (BCPM) courses, calculated separately from overall GPA.
Q: Are there accelerated (three-year) DO programs?
A: Yes, some schools offer three-year programs for students committed to primary care, though they are less common.
Q: Do DO schools place a unique emphasis on CASPer or PREview assessments?
A: Some DO schools consider these assessments, but they are generally not required or weighted as heavily as GPA and MCAT.
Q: Can working as a medical assistant count as clinical experience?
A: Yes, clinical experience includes direct patient interactions, such as medical assisting, scribing, and EMT work.
Q: Are research experiences required for DO schools?
A: Research is not required but can enhance an application, particularly for those interested in academic medicine or competitive specialties.
Q: Can I submit an application with an unofficial transcript?
A: No, official transcripts must be submitted for your application to be verified.