How to Get Into Tufts University School of Medicine: Requirements and Strategies
/Learn the requirements for Tufts University School of Medicine, admissions strategies, plus Tufts secondary essay prompts and sample essays
LEARN everything you need to know TO GET INTO Tufts University school of medicine
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Part 1: Introduction
Situated in the heart of Boston, one of America’s most dynamic cities for research, the Tufts University School of Medicine attracts students from all over the world each year.
Highly selective with a dynamic curriculum, Tufts produces graduates that go on to some of the highest levels of medical practice. Ranked #53 for best medical schools in research by U.S. News and World Report, the innovations and discoveries it produces are among the nation’s best. It’s no wonder it tends to be a reach school for many premeds.
Aside from its prime location and research credentials, Tufts maintains a faculty-to-student ratio of just 1.3 to 1, meaning you’ll not only be studying with some of the brightest minds in the country, you’ll get a special kind of individual attention guaranteed to leave its mark on your education.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what it takes to gain acceptance to this unique institution, from the programs they offer to application deadlines and secondary essay examples.
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Part 2: Tufts University School of Medicine MD programs
There are multiple ways to earn an MD at Tufts through their traditional four-year MD program or through one of their dual degree programs. The dual degree programs they offer are:
A combined MD-MPH degree program
An MD-MBA in health management
Note: This program is discontinued starting in the 2024-2025 cycle. While the program still exists for current students, Tufts is not taking new cohorts but may reinstate the program in the future.
An MD-MA in international relations
An MD-PhD
The four-year MD program
Tufts University employs a unique “integrated curriculum” for its traditional four-year MD program. Implemented in 2019, this program centers around “threads” focused on educating extremely well-rounded and knowledgeable doctors who gain expertise across the healthcare delivery spectrum. This means being educated in everything from how to effectively operate in 21st century healthcare systems to training in clinical reasoning, communication, and mindfulness.
Each “thread” in the curriculum covers a specific area of healthcare. These threads are broken down into four categories or themes, namely
Healthcare systems,
Population health,
The patient experience, and
Personal and professional development
These threads are woven throughout the classes within the curriculum. For example, you will start with courses introducing you to modern healthcare systems, followed by foundations in medical science and two sequences lasting 15 months on patient care and reasoning skills. All of this is rounded off with a “Competency-based Apprenticeship in Primary Care” (CAP), core clerkships in your second year, along with clinical rotations in your third and fourth years. You’ll also be required to complete a research project investigating an area of interest to you.
If all of this sounds like a varied education and a lot to juggle, it’s designed that way to produce physicians who are the best of the best. The good news is that you’ll also have a personal faculty coach who will meet regularly with you throughout your entire four years at Tufts to provide guidance and support.
The MD-MPH degree program
Tufts School of Medicine’s MD-MPH dual degree program is quite similar to the normal MD track. Dual degree students will complete both degrees in four years. In addition to the MD program’s courses, you’ll also have to take the MPH program's core courses, 42 semester hours of electives, and concentration courses unique to the MD-MPH track.
MD-MBA in health management
The MD-MBA program has recently been discontinued and is currently being phased out. While Tufts is no longer accepting applications for this program, they plan to provide the full planned experience for current students and to consider reinstating the program in the future.
MD-MA in international relations
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in health policy internationally, or perhaps working abroad with institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the MD-MA in international relations may be for you.
Students on this track will earn their MD while also studying international affairs and gaining an understanding of the global health issues we must confront in the 21st century. You’ll complete your MA at the Fletcher School for International Relations at Tufts and graduate with the skills required to be a medical diplomat.
MD-PhD
As an MD-PhD student, you’ll focus on research much more than your traditional MD colleagues. The MD-PhD program at Tufts follows an integrated curriculum similar to the MD program, but you’ll begin your PhD studies in your second year.
You’ll choose a PhD mentor from the faculty at the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) at Tufts and, if admitted to this program, you’ll be a student in both GSBS as well as the Tufts University School of Medicine.
GSBS trains students in five different areas, namely:
Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology,
Genetics,
Immunology,
Molecular Microbiology, and
Neuroscience
One of these graduate programs will be your focus. You can check the course requirements for each program here.
Maine Track MD
There is also a specialized MD track at Tufts for students interested in pursuing the practice of rural medicine, namely the Maine Track MD program.
As a student on this track, you will spend the majority of your time in Maine at the Maine Medical Center, Tufts’ partner institution. While you won’t be in Boston, you will be eligible for certain scholarships that regular MD students wouldn’t be.
You’ll also have to complete a Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship allowing you to interact with the same patients on their journey through the healthcare system. This type of clerkship is ideal for the types of primary care experiences you will have as a doctor in a rural environment.
Tufts University School of Medicine tuition and scholarships
For the 2023-2024 academic year, the tuition for each program was $69,036. Keep in mind that fees can vary depending on which program you are enrolled in and what year of study you’re pursuing.
Tufts provides an estimate of cost of attendance by program on its tuition and fees page (linked above) with ranges for a first-year MD-MPH student living off campus at $108,330 and a typical first-year MD student at $99,712. Remember that these are just estimates, but with eye-watering sums such as these, you’ll be keen to find financial aid where you can get it.
Students at Tufts have several options for financial aid available to them. These include scholarships, work-study and federal student loans. More information applicable to Tufts can be found on their website here.
Additionally, for students on the Maine Track, there is a scholarship offering $25,000 for up to 20 students each year. It is also possible for these funds to be renewed in the following years.
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Part 3: How hard is it to get into Tufts University School of Medicine?
Tufts University School of Medicine admissions statistics
As with any highly selective institution, you’ll have to meet a high bar to gain acceptance into Tufts. This will mean hard work to maintain a high GPA and using your time wisely when studying for the MCAT.
The profile of the MD class of 2027 offers some insight into what it takes to get in.
Total applicants: 13,916
Matriculants: 202
Interviews: 788
Average GPA: 3.76
Average Science GPA: 3.71
Average MCAT: 514
Tufts University School of Medicine admissions requirements
In addition to achieving a high GPA and an MCAT score near the 90th percentile, you’ll be expected to have met certain coursework and competency requirements as well.
Tufts defines a competency as “a specific learned ability demonstrated at a minimum, an entry-level skill set…needed to succeed in medical school.” They note that this knowledge can be gained through classes as well as work and life experiences.
The course prerequisites for Tufts are as follows:
Biology: One year of introductory or advanced biology.
Chemistry: Two years of chemistry including at least one semester in general chemistry and one semester in organic chemistry. A semester of biochemistry is highly recommended.
Physics: At least one semester of physics.
It’s important to note that any AP credits you have will not reduce the biology or physics coursework you need. Additionally, any exams you’ve taken to test out of a class will not count toward your prerequisites.
Tufts lists the following competencies as requirements for their program.
English: You will need to be able to speak and write in English. There’s no specific need to take English courses while you’re an undergraduate, but it can help. If English is not your first language, you can satisfy this requirement by completing your undergraduate degree at an English-speaking university.
Math: You should have a basic understanding of the concepts in statistics. This can be demonstrated through taking courses in statistics, the social sciences or even a research project.
Biology: You will need to show a working knowledge of Mendelian genetics and cell and molecular biology. This is usually acquired through biology courses.
Laboratory: You’ll need skills in a laboratory that are “equivalent to two years of laboratory coursework.” You should be taking the laboratory sections of classes when available, but they do also allow for laboratory experience gained in other settings, such as work.
(Suggested reading: Medical School Requirements: The Definitive Guide)
Unstated requirements: Aligning yourself holistically with Tufts’ mission
The process of getting into medical school is a long one and far from straightforward, no matter which school you apply to. You’ll certainly need top grades to get into Tufts but grades alone are not enough to carry you over the finish line to that white coat you have your heart set on.
Medical schools practice holistic admissions meaning they seek well-rounded candidates who demonstrate their passion for the field both in and outside of the classroom. This is also true at Tufts, however, it can be tricky to know whether you are the type of well-rounded candidate they’re looking for.
To help with this we look to the TSOM mission statement which states, “The mission of Tufts University School of Medicine is to educate a diverse body of students and advance medical knowledge in a dynamic and collaborative environment. We seek to foster the development of dedicated clinicians, scientists, public health professionals, and educators who will have a sustained positive impact on the health of individuals, communities, and the world.”
From this, we can see that the Tufts School of Medicine seeks well-rounded individuals who are passionate about healthcare and prepared to thrive in their collaborative learning environment. Beyond strong academics, your extracurricular activities and experiences are a chance to showcase these qualities.
Here's some advice on how to tailor your pursuits to align with Tufts' mission statement:
Demonstrate a commitment to diversity and global health: Seek volunteer or research opportunities that address health disparities in underserved communities, either locally or abroad. Consider participating in global health programs or cultural exchange initiatives.
Develop your collaborative spirit: Showcase your teamwork and communication skills through leadership roles in student organizations such as premed clubs, science societies, or even research teams.
Emphasize your dedication to public health: Volunteer for public health organizations or participate in initiatives that promote health education or disease prevention in your community. Usually, local free or low-cost clinics provide services such as these and they are often looking for volunteers!
Pursue your passions outside of science: For top-tier schools such as Tufts, it’s important to show that you are more than your grades and science pursuits. Artistic pursuits, athletic endeavors, or community service projects all contribute to a strong application and can eve nbe ways to demonstrate your creative thinking skills and leadership potential.
Thoughtfully selecting your extracurricular activities and experiences allows you to craft a compelling narrative that demonstrates your alignment with Tufts' mission. This will also give you plenty of material for those all-important secondary essays, which we delve into later in this guide.
Tufts University School of Medicine application timeline
When applying to Tufts University School of Medicine, you’ll want to be sure to note the following dates in your calendar.
May 1, 2024: AMCAS application opens
May 28, 2024: AMCAS application can be submitted
July 2024: Tufts secondary application opens
August 1, 2024: Early Decision deadline for AMCAS applications
September 1, 2024: Deadline to complete Early Decision Secondary Application
September 2024: Interviews begin
October 1, 2024: Early Decision applicant decisions sent out
November 1, 2024: AMCAS application deadline
January 15, 2025: Tufts secondary application deadline
March 31, 2025: All decisions to interview or rejection letters have been sent
(Suggested reading: The Ideal Medical School Application Timeline)
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Part 4: Tufts University School of Medicine secondary application essays (examples included)
Tufts admissions requirements give us a fantastic idea of what they’re looking for on paper, but what makes a great candidate in practice is much more than that. What are they seeking in candidates on a more holistic level?
The Tufts secondary essays are your chance to show who you are as a person, why you’ve chosen to apply to Tufts, and how you will contribute to the campus community during your studies.
An ideal application to Tufts will combine stellar grades and extracurricular activities that you are clearly passionate about with life experiences that point to the kind of caring, curious, and involved physician you will become.
Throughout our nearly 20 years advising students on admissions to their dream schools, we’ve come across thousands of exceptional essay responses which we’ve drawn on in answering all the current Tufts secondary prompts for the example responses below.
Question 1: Do you wish to share a specific reason why have you chosen to apply to Tufts University School of Medicine? (Yes/No) (1000 characters)
This is Tufts’ take on the “Why us?” question, where the difficulty lies in the specificity of your answer.
You’ll want to make sure that your reason is unique to Tufts. Exactly what does Tufts offer that drives you to apply? Make sure you consider programs at Tufts, but also the values of the institution. This is also your chance to demonstrate alignment with those values and explain why you would be a great fit with their campus community.
In the example below, this student chooses to focus on a specific program—the Maine Track—and makes a compelling case for why they are applying.
As a born and raised Maine resident, I am applying to Tufts due to its unique Maine Track. The Maine Track is the only MD opportunity available to study in Maine, which is important to me as I have a strong family support system there and hope to one day open a practice in Maine. Additionally, I am interested in this track’s nine-month LIC, which will give me the chance to follow a group of patients through the healthcare system. I am confident this opportunity will prepare me for my future career in either primary care or rheumatology – both of which are specialties that benefit from longitudinal approaches rather than acute ones.
Finally, I appreciate that Maine Track students complete their first-year classes in Boston, which will allow me to connect with a larger cohort of students, as well as experience Boston’s unique patient population. At no other medical school can I study primarily in Maine while gaining experience with diverse urban and rural populations.
What makes this an effective response?
Because this applicant is confident in their future goals, they come across as dedicated to their home state of Maine. Showing this type of commitment to a specific patient population can bolster your case for admission if the medical school serves a similar patient population, as is the case here.
In mentioning two specialties they are considering, the applicant demonstrates that while they are focused and dedicated, they’re open to several paths forward. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow is a crucial skill for a future physician!
This essay achieves depth by focusing on one opportunity – the Main Track – and describing how the unique aspects of that track will benefit their growth as a professional. Because this essay is so short at only 1000 characters, this close focus gives the essay depth.
Question 2: Please briefly describe your plans for the coming year. Include in this explanation if you will be a student, working, conducting research, volunteering, etc. (1000 characters)
Question 3: Please tell us about your journey to medical school and how your background and experiences will positively impact your future as a medical student and physician. If you have experienced personal circumstances or hardships that have helped you develop qualities that you believe will allow you to better serve your future patients and the medical community as a whole, please share those experiences in your response. (1000 characters)
Question 4: Which of your experiences with clinical medicine or healthcare has best prepared you for a future career as a physician, and why? Please tell us about the specific experience, the skills you acquired, and the insights you gained about the profession of medicine. (1000 characters)
Question 5: Tufts University School of Medicine is committed to social responsibility, and to serve and advocate for all people. Have you done substantial work or service that has contributed to societal good, or addressed social determinants of health, health equity, or social justice? (Yes/No) (1000 characters)
Question 6: Do you have any withdrawals or repeated coursework listed on your transcript(s). (1000 characters)
Question 7: Did you take any leaves of absence or significant breaks from your undergraduate education? (Do not include time off after graduation.) (1000 characters)
Question 8: Because your academics will not be shared with interviewers until after you complete your interview, we encourage you to use this space to elaborate on any academic challenges you have overcome. We understand that many applicants encounter academic hardships along the way. Please comment on any academic difficulties that you have encountered since completing high school (grades and MCAT scores). We believe that such difficulties offer an opportunity for growth and would appreciate learning how your experiences have affected your approach to academics. If you have not encountered any difficulties, you may answer 'No.' (1000 characters)
Gain instant access to med school secondary essay examples for every single prompt required by every medical school in the United States and Canada. Subscribe today to lock in the current investments, which will be increasing in the future for new subscribers.
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Part 5: Tufts University School of Medicine interview
Tufts School of Medicine employs a traditional-style medical school interview format that will take place virtually through Zoom for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle.
Interviews are conducted between September and March and selected applicants will be invited to attend an interview day which consists of two formal individual interviews, presentations, a tour of campus, and a chance to meet with current students.
Your interviewer will be well-acquainted with your application and will have questions about your background and your reasons for wanting to become a physician. They’ll also want to know about your reasons for wanting to attend Tufts. So, keep in mind that while it’s extremely important to prepare answers to questions about yourself and your motivations, you should also be knowledgeable about the facilities, opportunities, and your specific reasons for attending Tufts.
Our research has noted that many of the following questions have come up recently during Tufts interviews:
How would your friends describe you?
What was the worst team you've been on?
What led you to medicine? What do you want to achieve in the profession?
What are the qualities of a good doctor?
How do you handle stress?
What specific procedures did you see during your shadowing experiences?
What is your favorite leadership experience?
Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses.
If you could choose two traits that you want the admissions office to focus on in your application, what would they be?
Would you know how to answer “What led you to medicine?” on the spot? Would you be able to include something specific to Tufts in your answer? Thinking through your answers to common questions beforehand can make all the difference between success and failure on interview day.
(Suggested reading: How to Ace Your Medical School Interviews)
Invited to a med school interview? Congrats! There's no need to land in waitlist purgatory or the rejection pile. Learn how to craft memorable, acceptance-worthy responses using the resource below.
Gain instant access to the most common traditional and MMI interview questions, plus sample responses for each, to help you craft responses that lead to acceptances. Subscribe today to lock in the current investments, which will be increasing in the future for new subscribers.
Final thoughts
Each year, thousands of students apply to Tufts University School of Medicine and only a small fraction are accepted. Its selectivity is well-earned with a proven record of providing fantastic educational opportunities for its students.
To maximize your odds of admission, focus on achieving stellar grades, a top-tier MCAT score, and crafting exceptional essays. Packaged together with exceptional extracurriculars, you’ll make a compelling case for admission.
About the Author
Dr. Shirag Shemmassian is the Founder of Shemmassian Academic Consulting and one of the world's foremost experts on medical school admissions. For nearly 20 years, he and his team have helped thousands of students get into medical school using his exclusive approach.