Application Process

Applicants for UTMB’s MD-PhD Combined Degree Program must submit an application via the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). A minimum of two letters of recommendation must be provided from individuals who can comment on the applicant's abilities and achievements in conducting scholarly research.

Applicants are required to take the MCAT. The GRE is not required for admission.

Applicants also must complete the UTMB School of Medicine prerequisite requirements for admission. More information may be found on the School of Medicine Admission Requirements page. Courses must be completed at regionally accredited U.S. colleges and universities.

As noted on the requirements page, only applicants who are permanent U.S. residents or American citizens will be considered for interview and admission.

The School of Medicine requires all applicants to sit for the CASPer test. The CASPer Test (Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics) is a mandatory online 90-minute computer-based test used to assist with the selection process. This test assesses non-cognitive skills and interpersonal characteristics. For 2020 application cycle applicants, this test must be completed no later than August 20, 2019, and no applicant will be given an acceptance without a score on file.

Medical Humanities Applicants:

MD-PhD students interested in the medical humanities are specifically admitted into this program prior to matriculation at UTMB.

In addition to the AMCAS application, a minimum of two letters of recommendation must be provided from individuals who can comment on the applicant's abilities and achievements to conduct scholarly research.

Applicants to this program also must submit a writing sample reflecting the applicant's ability to develop and sustain an analysis or argument. The sample should be a minimum of 5 pages in length. Creative writing samples (poems, plays, stories, etc.), journalism, and other nonacademic, non-scholarly writings are discouraged. Writing samples should be mailed or emailed to Claiborne Fant using the below contact information.

UTMB/UT-Austin Dual Degree Program Note:

The Dual Degree MD-PhD Program at The University of Texas Medical Branch and The University of Texas at Austin (The Austin Program) is no longer accepting students. Applicants pursuing MD-PhD training at The University of Texas Medical Branch are encouraged to apply to UTMB MD-PhD Combined Degree Program.

For admissions questions, please contact:

Christopher M. Rhodes
Program Manager
MD-PhD Combined Degree Program
The University of Texas Medical Branch
301 University Blvd.
Galveston, TX