While application opening dates and deadlines are consistent annually, the decision of when to apply and when to take any necessary tests can vary significantly from student to student. There is no definitive right or wrong approach to this process; therefore, we encourage students to discuss their plans with an advisor before finalizing their timeline for applying.
Students often consider the benefits of taking a gap year versus applying immediately after graduation. While there are advantages to taking a gap year, many students opt to apply during the summer before their fourth year, allowing them to transition directly into professional or graduate school following graduation.
When preparing to apply for a health profession program, it is important to make informed decisions about your own readiness. You will need to determine whether your academic and experiential preparation is competitive for admission. This self-assessment empowers you to evaluate your own readiness, and review concrete strategies to become a more competitive applicant.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications generally open one year prior to the program start date. For example, if you are hoping to start your health profession program in Fall 2028, you would submit your application during Summer 2027.
You might choose to apply the summer between your third and fourth year and plan to transition directly into your health profession program. You might also choose to apply after you graduate, allowing additional time to strengthen your application and financially prepare for further education.
When should I begin working on my personal statement?
You can begin drafting your personal statement as early as you would like. We recommend preparing a draft 6 months before you intend to submit your application. This will allow you ample time to make revisions and seek the support of campus resources like Career and Leadership Development and the Tutoring and Academic Resource Center.
How do I get letters of recommendation?
Your letters of recommendation will come from the faculty, mentors, supervisors, and clinicians you’ve built a good rapport with over time. You will want to request letters of recommendation 3-4 months ahead of your application deadline, to give your letter writers ample time to write thoughtful statements of support for your application.