Requirements, selection factors and policies

The Admissions Committee considers MCAT scores that are no more than 2 years old at the time of application (i.e., 2021 MCAT scores are the oldest considered for 2024). The latest MCAT scores considered for 2024 entry are those from the September 2023 test date. The Admissions Committee uses the most recent MCAT scores during its review of applications. The minimum MCAT requirements can be found in our Admissions Requirements section.

PREview:

SIU will be recommending, but not requiring applicants to take the AAMC Professional Readiness Exam (PREview).

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION:

SIU School of Medicine accepts letters of recommendation submitted through AMCAS’ letters of evaluation utility. AMCAS offers several ways through which letters can be submitted. Click here to learn about the AMCAS Application Letter of Evaluation.

Applicants have to submit letters of recommendation when they are invited to submit a supplementary application. There are two options:

1. Submit one pre-health professions committee letter or another composite letter of recommendation.
2. Submit four individual letters. This option requires three letters written by academic sources (i.e., professor or research advisor) and one personal or professional letter. The Admissions Office must receive all supplementary materials, the application, and letters of recommendation by February 1.

*** Letters from political sources are not recommended***

ILLINOIS RESIDENCY:

SIU School of Medicine only accepts legal Illinois residents for the regular MD program. Legal residents are considered to be those in possession of a valid Illinois drivers’ license and/or those registered to vote in the State. Only the combined medicine and law (MD/JD) program considers non-Illinois residents.