Admissions

AWSOM has received preliminary accreditation status from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) and expects applications to open on AMCAS by November 2024 for its first class of 48 students, starting July 2025.

At Alice L. Walton School of Medicine, an innovative curriculum will prepare students to become experts in the art and science of medicine while integrating whole health principles to influence improved overall health outcomes.

Guided by some of the best minds in medicine in a new, state-of-the-art medical education facility, future physicians will be provided knowledge and training to excel in an evolving health care landscape and advance our mission of bridging the gaps to better health, together.

 

Open Viewbook

Admission Requirements

 

Minimum Requirements

MCAT score of 500

Overall GPA of 3.4

United States Citizen or Permanent Resident

 

Applicants should complete a minimum of 24 credit hours in Biology-Chemistry-Physics-Math (BCPM) courses, with the following GPA requirements:

  • Cumulative undergraduate BCPM GPA of 3.4 with at least 24 credit hours in math and sciences OR
  • Cumulative post baccalaureate BCPM GPA of 3.5 with at least 24 credit hours in math and sciences OR
  • Cumulative graduate BCPM GPA of 3.5 with at least 24 credit hours in math and sciences

Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) coursework will not be included as part of the required credit hour total.

 

Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®)

A minimum MCAT® score of 500, taken within four years of the date of matriculation, is required for admission.

The MCAT® Exam, administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), is a standardized exam that assesses competencies required for medical education, including:

  • Biological and biochemical foundations of living systems
  • Psychological, social, and biological foundations of behavior
  • Chemical and physical foundations of biological systems
  • Critical analysis and reasoning skills

Information about the MCAT® Exam is available on the AAMC website.

 

AAMC PREview® Professional Readiness Exam

Beginning in the 2025-26 application cycle, the PREview® Exam will be a minimum requirement to help provide a more comprehensive picture of non-academic skills and professional readiness for a career in medicine. No minimum score is required.

The PREview® Exam is a standardized exam designed by the AAMC to assess pre-professional competencies. More information is available on the AAMC website.

 

Holistic Review

AWSOM utilizes a holistic approach in evaluating experiences, personal attributes, and academic preparation in selecting applicants who most strongly align with the School’s mission, vision, and values. Successful applicants will have:

  • A strong commitment to serving others and the community
  • Meaningful exposure to and understanding of the medical profession
  • Team and leadership skills
  • Demonstrated ability to perform well in an academic setting
  • Evidence of intellectual curiosity, creativity, innovation, and a dedication to lifelong learning

 

 

Upcoming Webinars for Prospective Students

Attend AWSOM Admissions webinars for an overview of our program, the application process, student support services, and life in Northwest Arkansas. Upcoming events will be posted below. Stay tuned.

 

Questions?

Have questions about applying to AWSOM?

Contact admissions@alwmed.org

 

Applicants will be notified electronically of updates and status during the application process.

Ready to Apply?

Primary applications for AWSOM’s 2024-25 admissions cycle will open on the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) beginning November 2024.

 

Learn How to Apply

Preparing for Medical School

Not ready to apply, but want to begin the journey to becoming a Doctor of Medicine (MD)?

The AAMC provides resources for individuals considering a career in medicine.

Gaining relevant medical exposure, exploring research, developing team and leadership skills, engaging in service to diverse communities, and connecting with an undergraduate prehealth advisor will all support medical school application preparation.

Focus on building a strong academic record and maintaining a high GPA while preparing to take the MCAT® Exam. We encourage applicants to take the MCAT® at least one year in advance of the anticipated medical school start date. MCAT® scores should be taken within the last four years prior to matriculation.