California University of Science and Medicine Admissions: A Comprehensive Guide
California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM) is a private, non-profit medical school located in Southern California. Founded in 2018, CUSM is dedicated to training future physicians who are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
Admissions Process
The admissions process at CUSM is highly competitive. In the 2023-2024 admissions cycle, CUSM received over 7,000 applications for its 150 available seats.
To apply to CUSM, you must submit the following materials:
- AMCAS application
- MCAT scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Transcript
- Supplemental essays
The CUSM Admissions Committee reviews all applications carefully and selects candidates for interviews based on their academic record, MCAT scores, and personal qualities. Interviews are typically held in the fall and winter.
Admissions Criteria
CUSM seeks students who are intellectually curious, compassionate, and dedicated to serving others. The Admissions Committee considers the following factors when making admissions decisions:
- Academic achievement
- MCAT scores
- Leadership experience
- Community involvement
- Personal qualities
Academic achievement
CUSM expects applicants to have a strong academic record. The average GPA of incoming students in the 2023-2024 admissions cycle was 3.8.
MCAT scores
The average MCAT score of incoming students in the 2023-2024 admissions cycle was 515.
Leadership experience
CUSM values applicants who have demonstrated leadership experience in their communities or extracurricular activities.
Community involvement
CUSM seeks applicants who are passionate about serving others. The Admissions Committee considers applicants’ involvement in volunteer work, community service, or other activities that demonstrate their commitment to making a difference in the world.
Personal qualities
CUSM seeks applicants who are compassionate, empathetic, and dedicated to providing patient-centered care. The Admissions Committee considers applicants’ personal qualities during interviews and in the review of their personal statements.
How to Apply
To apply to CUSM, you must submit the following materials:
- AMCAS application
- MCAT scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Transcript
- Supplemental essays
AMCAS application
The AMCAS application is the standard application for medical school in the United States. You can submit your AMCAS application online at the AAMC website.
MCAT scores
You must submit your MCAT scores to CUSM as part of your application. You can register for the MCAT at the AAMC website.
Letters of recommendation
You must submit three letters of recommendation to CUSM. At least two of your letters should be from science professors who can attest to your academic abilities. The third letter can be from a non-science professor, a physician, or another individual who can speak to your personal qualities.
Personal statement
Your personal statement is an opportunity to introduce yourself to the CUSM Admissions Committee and explain why you want to become a physician. Your personal statement should be well-written and engaging, and it should highlight your strengths and qualities that make you a good candidate for CUSM.
Transcript
You must submit an official transcript from all colleges and universities you have attended. Your transcript should show your grades in all coursework, including science courses.
Supplemental essays
CUSM requires applicants to submit two supplemental essays. The first essay is a diversity essay, in which you discuss your experiences with diversity and how they have shaped your perspective. The second essay is a motivation essay, in which you explain your reasons for wanting to become a physician and why you are interested in CUSM.
Admissions Timeline
The CUSM admissions timeline is as follows:
- June 1: AMCAS application opens
- September 15: AMCAS application deadline
- October 1: MCAT registration deadline
- January 1: CUSM supplemental essays deadline
- February 1: CUSM application deadline
- March 1: CUSM interview invitations begin
- April 15: CUSM interview deadline
- June 1: CUSM admissions decisions released
Admissions Statistics
The following table shows the admissions statistics for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle:
| Statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Applications received | 7,000 |
| Interviews offered | 1,200 |
| Students enrolled | 150 |
| Average GPA | 3.8 |
| Average MCAT score | 515 |
Why Choose CUSM?
CUSM is a unique medical school that offers a number of advantages to its students, including:
- A focus on patient-centered care
- A small class size
- A diverse student body
- A supportive learning environment
- A commitment to research
A focus on patient-centered care
CUSM is committed to training physicians who are dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. The school’s curriculum emphasizes the importance of communication, empathy, and cultural sensitivity.
A small class size
CUSM has a small class size of 150 students. This allows for more personalized instruction and a more supportive learning environment.
A diverse student body
CUSM has a diverse student body that represents a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The school values diversity and inclusion, and it believes that a diverse student body creates a more enriching learning environment.
A supportive learning environment
CUSM provides a supportive learning environment for its students. The school’s faculty and staff are dedicated to helping students succeed, and they are always available to offer support and guidance.
A commitment to research
CUSM is committed to research, and the school’s faculty are actively involved in a wide range of research projects. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, which can provide them with valuable experience and help them develop their critical thinking skills.
Conclusion
CUSM is a top-notch medical school that offers a number of advantages to its students. If you are interested in a career in medicine, I encourage you to apply to CUSM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at CUSM?
The acceptance rate at CUSM is approximately 2%.
What is the average GPA of incoming students at CUSM?
The average GPA of incoming students at CUSM is 3.8.
What is the average MCAT score of incoming students at CUSM?
The average MCAT score of incoming students at CUSM is 515.
What is the deadline to apply to CUSM?
The deadline to apply to CUSM is February 1.
