Yes. About 85% of MSTPs across they country are planning virtual interviews, and we are one of them.

• Not at all.
• In the 2024 cycle, of the 8 matriculants: 3 came from the first interview, 1 came from the second interview, 1came from the third interview, and 3 were from the final interview. (4 dates)

No. The MD/PhD application serves as your application for both programs.

Yes, there is an option in your application to select that you’d like to also be considered for an MD-Only spot. However, your application will first and foremost be in the MD/PhD process. When you choose to apply MD/PhD we view the dual degree program as your “top priority” through the entire process. If you prefer the MD-Only route be viewed as your top priority, we suggest applying to the MD program.

• If you choose MD/PhD with an MD-Only option, this means if you are selected for an MSTP interview you will remain on the Iowa MSTP waitlist until all positions are filled in our program. Since we do a rolling admissions process, this could be until May or June. However, your application would then be moved to the College of Medicine’s “Final Pool” and reviewed in February for a medical school decision in March.
• If you do not receive an MSTP interview, your name will be released from the MD/PhD process (usually around December) and provided to the College of Medicine for consideration for an interview in their process.

Yes! If this happens, it does not affect your status as an MSTP application and we could still make you an MD/PhD offer later in the process.

• Below is the applicant pool information for the past four years:

   

• In general, admission to MD/PhD training programs (MSTPs) requires that students have significant research experience and a motivation towards medicine. Usually students complete independent research projects and are able to discuss the "what" and importantly the "why" behind their investigations. Students should also have some exposure to medicine, including physician shadowing, and evidence of leadership and altruism.
• What really distinguishes MD/PhD admissions from MD admissions is the research experience. So the more time spent in a lab, and the greater depth of the research accomplishments, the better.

Absoultely not!

• The administrative director conducts a pre-review and eliminates applications from candidates who fail to meet basic academic requirements or who lack research experience.
• Each application is reviewed by two committee members, who each score the application based on:
  • the student’s academic credentials, including performance in rigorous coursework in the natural and physical sciences
  • the strength and depth of the research experience
  • personal statements that demonstrate a commitment to research and medicine
  • the letters of recommendation, with extra weight given to letters from research mentors
• The directors meet with the Iowa MSTP admissions committee chair to review the outcome of the committee appraisals and decide which candidates to invite for an interview. This year we will have four interviews of 15 applicants each.

• After each of the groups of applicants have been interviewed, the admissions committee meets and discusses each candidate.
• After discussion of each candidate, committee members vote and a final rank list is generated. The directors, in consultation with the admissions chair, consider the ranked list as well as other factors to select applicants for admission.
• Before a formal offer can be extended, the MSTP candidates are reviewed by and discussed with the full Carver College of Medicine admissions committee.
• Applicants who are extended an offer of admission are asked to return for our Revisit Weekend in April.
• A few admission offers are made after each interview group is reviewed, and additional offers are made after all reviews are concluded in January.
• Keeping in touch with candidates allows us to identify questions and provide materials that may assist in their decision-making process.

• Accepted applicants have dinner with the directors, meet with faculty to discuss research projects, interact with Iowa MSTP students, and meet future classmates.
• Time is scheduled for candidates to tour the research facilities and hospital, and get better acquainted with the Iowa City community. This is a great opportunity to check out housing.
• The agenda for Revisit Weekend is applicant-driven, allowing prospective students the flexibility to address questions relevant to their training goals.
• After the weekend, the MSTP communicates with prospective students regularly. The directors, MSTP students, and involved faculty members make individual contact.

• Only second-year medical students are eligible to apply. Information about the application process for advanced standing students is available here.
• If you are a first-year medical student and think you might want to apply next year, a good strategy would be to make your interest in joining the MSTP known to Linda Varvel. She can answer any questions regarding the MSTP or other research opportunities on campus that may be open to you. We can also give you the opportunity to participate in various MSTP activities and events.

• You would need to talk to the Carver College of Medicine admissions office for any questions regarding your PhD coursework as it relates to credit in the MD curriculum.
• You are eligible to apply to the Iowa MSTP if your goal is to pursue a second PhD from scratch while attending medical school.

No. However, consideration may be made if your current PhD mentor is joining the University of Iowa as faculty.