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Best Medical Schools In Houston

Texas has many Spanish-speaking populations, and being able to interact with them in their native language will not only help you stand out as an applicant, but you will also be better able to work with them as a doctor once you graduate.

What are the Best Texas Medical Schools? – Average GPA and MCAT

Best Medical Schools In Houston

How many medical schools are in Texas? How can you make sure your application stands out? To find out the answers to these questions and much more, take a look at our article on the best medical schools in Texas.

Texas state flag blowing in wind

If you are hoping to attend one of the best Texas medical schools, knowing a few things before you apply will be helpful. The good medical schools in Texas are known for being leaders in research—particularly in cancer care—and for producing outstanding doctors.

The best med schools in Texas also carry stellar reputations across the United States, so whether you stay in-state or choose to establish a practice in another, your credentials will move with you. On top of this, Texas is known for its warm weather and many fun opportunities for students, such as sporting events and, yes, even the rodeo!

This guide will help you determine which of the good medical schools in Texas to concentrate your efforts on, how the application process works, and the details of each of them so you can make an informed choice. It will also cover the ins and outs regarding what makes Texas unique when it comes to your education.

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Attending Medical School in Texas

The best Texas medical schools are attractive for many reasons. Many of these schools have good reputations, and the state itself offers warm weather throughout most of the year.

Furthermore, both rural and urban institutions have strong programs available. You can be any type of medical professional you wish, from a big-city doctor to a small-town family physician. There are 16 total schools to choose from and one Engineering Medical program in Texas.

Application Processing Service

14 of the medical schools use the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS), while one uses the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) application, and one relies on The American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). Additionally, the Engineering Medical program uses AMCAS.

If you’re working on an application to medical schools in Texas, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the relevant application services.

AMCAS

  • Burnett School of Medicine at TCU
  • Texas A&M’s EnMed

AACOMAS

  • University of Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine

TMDSAS

  • Baylor College of Medicine
  • University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
  • McGovern Medical School (Houston)
  • Long Medical School (San Antonio)
  • University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine at Galveston
  • Texas A&M College of Medicine
  • Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in Lubbock
  • Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine El Paso
  • University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School
  • University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
  • UT Tyler School of Medicine
  • University of Houston College of Medicine
  • Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine – University of North Texas
  • Sam Houston State University

If you are also applying to other schools in the U.S., consult our guide for the AAMC’s American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) to learn how to submit those applications.

Now that you know the basics, you’re probably wondering, “How many medical schools are in Texas?” Let’s learn about each of Texas’ 16 med schools and explore the details you need to know to weigh your options. We’ll get into the course requirements for medical schools in Texas, the tuition, and more. Let’s get into it.

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List of All Texas Medical Schools

The table below breaks down each of the best Texas medical schools, their mission statements, a brief introduction to the school, the requirements to get in, and their expected tuition. Terms: IS – in-state, OOS – out-of-state, N/A – not available.

Baylor College of Medicine

The Baylor College of Medicine is a private stand-alone medical school located within the Texas Medical Center, which is the largest medical center globally. Tracing its roots back to 1900, today, it features the only School of Tropical Medicine in North America. Its students learn from some of the most diverse patient populations in the U.S.

Requirements

You must have a minimum of 90 undergraduate semester hours, including:

  • 3-4 semester hours of Math
  • 3-4 semester hours of Writing
  • 12 semester hours of Humanities-Social/Behavioral Sciences
  • 2 semester equalling 6-8 semester hours of Organic Chemistry, with no lab requirements
  • 3-4 semester hours of Biochemistry – no lab required
  • 3-4 semester hours of Advanced Biology – no lab required
  • Highly recommended: Genetics, Cell/Molecular Biology
  • Recommended: Spanish
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
4.3% 3.91 518 $28,465 IS
$41,565 OOS

Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

This is a recently-established medical school founded in 2019. It’s the third osteopathic medical school in Texas, and it has a small, focused, and tight-knit community of doctors, students, and patients who learn from each other.

Requirements

  • 8 semester hours including a lab of Biology/Zoology
  • 8 semester hours including a lab of Organic Chemistry
  • 8 semester hours including a lab of Physics
  • 8 semester hours including a lab of General Chemistry
  • Recommended: Biochemistry

Non-Science Courses Required

  • 6 semester hours of College-Level English
  • 6 semester hours of Math/Statistics
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
N/A 3.70 506 $55,000 IS
$55,000 OOS

TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine

Established in 1970, the TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine is taking the lead in research growth for the state of Texas. Special programs in this institution include a pediatric mobile clinic that offers no-cost care to children in underserved areas of Fort Worth. This charitable outreach focus makes it a social partner for many in the area.

Requirements

You must have taken the MCAT in the last three years and enrolled in at least the following courses:

  • 1 course of Biochemistry
  • 1 course of Genetics
  • 1 course of Physiology
  • 1 course of Statistics
  • 1 course of English Composition
  • 2 courses of Social and Behavioural Sciences
  • 2 courses of Humanities
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
0.73% 3.66 509 $66,820

Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine

Science is a good word to encapsulate the Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine. It is associated with the renowned Texas A&M University, which is famous for everything from football to military leaders. Notable alumni include Rip Torn and Phyllis Frye, the first openly trans judge in the U.S.

Requirements

You must have a C grade minimum in all of the following courses:

  • 8 hours of General Biology (including labs)
  • 6 credit hours of Advanced Biological Sciences
  • 8 credit hours of General Chemistry (including labs)
  • 8 credit hours of Organic Chemistry (including labs)
  • 8 credit hours of General Physics (including labs)
  • 3 credit hours of Math-Based Statistics
  • 6 credit hours of English
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
3.40% 3.85 512 $60,364 – $63,792 IS
$73,864 – $77,292 OOS

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine

Established in 2007, the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center has finances on its side, thanks to a large number of donations. Students here take core classes four at a time in their first two years, which include society, community and individual, medical skills, and a colloquium to ensure proper learning of the scientific principles of medicine.

Requirements

  • Biology – 12 credit hours
  • Biology – laboratories two credit hours
  • Biochemistry – 3 credit hours
  • General chemistry with labs – 8 credit hours
  • Organic chemistry with labs – 8 credit hours
  • Physics with labs 8 – credit hours
  • Statistics – 3 credit hours
  • English – 6 credit hours
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
2.13% 3.82
Science GPA: 3.76
509 $16,946.00 IS
$31, 897.00 OOS

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine – Lubbock

Students of TTUHSC School of Medicine – Lubbock, established in 1969, can take joint-degree programs with Texas Tech University or even a fast-tracked three-year program if they wish. It was the first school in the U.S. to offer an accelerated program and continues to pave the way in that area.

Requirements

Complete at least 90 semester hours (134 quarter hours) and achieve at least C grades; for:

  • General Biology or Zoology – 6 semester hours
  • Biology Labs – 2 semester hours
  • Upper-Division Biology – 6 semester hours
  • General Chemistry – 6 semester hours
  • General Chemistry labs – 2 semester hours
  • Organic Chemistry – 6 semester hours
  • Organic Chemistry labs – 2 semester hours
  • Physics – 6 semester hours
  • Physics labs – 2 semester hours
  • English – 6 semester hours
  • Statistics – 3 semester hours
  • Total – 47

Note: Biochemistry is required by the TTUHSC School of Medicine and it may be used toward fulfilling the Biological Sciences or General Chemistry requirement. Your best MCAT score from within the last five years is used.

Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
3.01% 3.87 512 $22,379 IS
$35,478 OOS

University of Houston College of Medicine

Another recent arrival, the UH College of Medicine was founded in 2019 and enrolled its inaugural class of 30 in 2020. Full of new energy and exciting possibilities, this school focuses on primary care.

Requirements

You must have taken MCAT within the last 5 years and have 90 credit hours minimum in these required courses:

  • 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab in General Biology
  • 3 credit hours of Advanced Biology
  • 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab in General (Inorganic) Chemistry
  • 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab in Organic Chemistry
  • 3 credit hours in Biochemistry
  • 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab in Physics tailored specifically for science majors
  • 3 credit hours in Statistics as taught by math/statistics/psychology departments
  • 6 credit hours in English Composition

The following courses are highly recommended:

  • A foreign language
  • Any other biology courses such as human physiology, genetics, molecular, or immunology
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
0.50% 3.59 506 $48,112 IS$61,212 OOS

University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine

A public medical school located in The University of North Texas Science Center, the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine has the 8th largest number of medical students entering general practice fields in the U.S. Another primary-care-oriented school, it also has affiliated foreign teaching hospitals.

Requirements

You must have at least 90 undergraduate hours and have taken the MCAT within the last five years.

  • General Biology totaling 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab
  • Advanced Biology totaling 3 credit hours
  • General (Inorganic) Chemistry totaling 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab
  • Organic Chemistry totaling 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab
  • Biochemistry totaling 3 credit hours
  • Physics specifically for science majors totaling 8 credit hours and 2 hours must be a lab
  • Statistics as taught in a math, statistics, and/or psychology department totaling 3 credit hours
  • English Composition totaling 6 credit hours
  • Any foreign language
  • Other biology courses such as those in molecular, genetics, human physiology, or immunology
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
12.4% 3.81 508.7 $13,079 IS
$28,767 OOS

University of Texas at Austin – Dell Medical School

Named after the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, of the eponymous computer company, the Dell Medical School was founded in 2013. A public institution, it already has quite a large endowment and has a notable focus on wellness.

Requirements

  • 11 Biology semester hours, 2 of which are required to be labs (Plus taking a genetics course is highly recommended)
  • 8 Physics semester hours, two of which must be labs
  • 12 Chemistry semester hours, consisting of two semesters of organic chemistry and one semester of general inorganic chemistry that total to nine semester hours with three semester hours in labs. Or, two semesters of general inorganic chemistry and one semester of organic chemistry add up to nine semester hours with three semester hours in labs.
  • 3 Biochemistry semester hours
  • 3 semester hours of English focused on composition
  • 3 Math semester hours in statistics

Dell Medical School does not set minimum GPA or MCAT scores for admissions. Instead, pay attention to Dell Medical School’s admit rate, average GPA, and average MCAT scores to gauge your chances of getting in.

Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
2.3% 3.84 516 $21,087 IS
$35,406 OOS
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University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston

With around 240 students admitted into the McGovern Medical School every year, it is the 7th largest medical school in the U.S and one of the top medical schools in Houston. It is affiliated with the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. It was at this school in which Ferid Murad did the research that earned him a Nobel Prize.

Requirements

You must have taken a minimum of 90 credit hours and have taken an MCAT in the last five years.

  • Biological Sciences – 14 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Biology courses must be tailored to science majors.
  • General Chemistry – 8 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Must be tailored to science majors specifically.
  • Organic Chemistry – 8 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Must be tailored to science majors specifically.
  • Physics – 8 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Must be tailored to science majors specifically.
  • English – 6 semester hours. Must be taught by the English department and cannot be remedial courses or ESL classes.
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
3.68% 3.89 513 $34,527 IS
$54,534 OOS

University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine

This public institution includes the oldest medical school in Texas. Founded in 1891, UTMB is famous for its original building: “Old Red,” which is large and ornate. A notable alumnus is the astronaut Dr. William E. Thornton.

Requirements

Must have taken the MCAT in the last five years and have at least 90 credit hours with a C average or better in:

  • English – 6 semester hours. Must be taken from the English department. Remedial courses or courses with intensive writing from other departments do not count.
  • Biological Sciences – 14 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Biology courses must be tailored to science majors.
  • Mathematics – 3 semester hours of college-level Calculus or Statistics.
  • Physics – 8 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Must be tailored to science majors specifically.
  • General Chemistry – 8 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Must be tailored to science majors specifically.
  • Organic Chemistry – 8 semester hours, of which two semester hours in labs. Must be tailored to science majors specifically.
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
3.68% 3.80 511 $26,017.58 IS$
40,727.94 OOS

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine

Found in 2014, UTRGV SOM is in the Rio Grande Valley to help serve this area, which is currently underserved by medical schools. It addresses the rates of obesity and diabetes, in particular that are higher in this area than in the rest of the state and nation.

Requirements

You must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, with a 3.2 in all Sciences and a C or above in every course, totaling at least 90 credit hours.

If your scores are above the 50th percentile and each section is 122 or higher, they’ll be carefully reviewed. Scores below that will be looked at by a special committee, but if your score is below 495, it won’t be considered for admission. Also, from 2025 onwards, MCAT scores older than three years won’t count.

University of Texas School of Medicine at San Antonio

UT Health San Antonio is notable for the Mays Cancer Center, which is internationally renowned for drug trials in treating cancer. In fact, 15 recent cancer drugs that the FDA approved were developed or tested at this institution. In addition, it’s focused on creating and providing innovative treatments for these patients.

Requirements

  • Biological Sciences – 12 semester hours of lecture and two semester hours of labs
  • Biochemistry – 3 semester hours and they go toward the biology or chemistry requirement
  • General Chemistry – 6 semester hours of lecture and 2 hours in labs
  • Organic Chemistry – 6 semester hours of lecture and 2 hours in labs
  • Physics – 6 semester hours of lecture and 2 hours in labs
  • English – 6 semester hours
  • Statistics – 3 semester hours
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
3.28% 3.84 519 $10,974 IS
$24,834 OOS

University of Texas Southwestern Medical School

A public medical school associated with the University of Texas system, the UT Southwestern Medical School has a faculty and student population that passionately cares for over 100,000 patients.

Requirements

You must have taken 90 credit hours and received grades of a C or better in:

  • 14 Biology semester hours
  • 3 Biochemistry semester hours
  • 12 Chemistry semester hours
  • 6 English semester hours
  • 3 Mathematics semester hours
  • 8 Physics semester hours
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
3.5% 3.88 516 $58,238 IS
$71,338 OOS

University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine

A private, non-profit, and religious medical school, the UIWSOM was founded in 2015. It is part of the University of the Incarnate Word, a Catholic university that traces its roots back to 1881.

Requirements

Must have grades of C (not C-) or better. No less than 75% of credits to be received must be accumulated before you may apply. The following minimum semester hours are required:

  • Biology – 8 semester hours with two semester hours of labs
  • Inorganic Chemistry – 8 semester hours with two semester hours of labs
  • Organic Chemistry – 8 semester hours with two semester hours of labs
  • Physics – 8 semester hours with two semester hours of labs
  • English – 6 semester hours of composition and/or literature.
  • Advanced sciences such as those in human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, neuroscience, microbiology, behavioral science, and immunology
  • 6 semester hours of philosophy courses and/or other humanities courses
  • 6 semester hours of math/statistics courses
Acceptance Rate Average GPA Average MCAT score Tuition
N/A Cumulative GPA – 3.6
Science GPA – 3.5
503 $67,626

University of Houston campus

Texas Medical Schools by Institution Type

Texas is home to a variety of medical schools, both private and public. Let’s take a look.

Public Medical Schools

Though Texas only has a handful of public medical schools, each one has a ton to offer.

  • University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
  • University of Texas Health Science Center–San Antonio
  • University of Texas Health Science Center–Houston (McGovern)
  • Texas A&M University
  • Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Private Medical Schools

Private medical schools offer unique educational opportunities and experiences for aspiring medical professionals. Keep reading to learn about private medical schools in Texas.

  • Baylor College of Medicine
  • University of North Texas Health Science Center
  • Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Texas Christian University
  • University of the Incarnate Word
  • Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center–El Paso
  • The University of Texas at Tyler School of Medicine
  • University of Houston College of Medicine
  • University of Texas–Austin (Dell)
  • University of Texas Medical Branch–Galveston
  • University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Texas boasts a variety of medical schools, both public and private, each with its own distinct characteristics and contributions to the field of medicine in the state. These institutions play a vital role in training the future healthcare professionals who will serve the diverse healthcare needs of Texas and beyond.

University of Texas at Austin campus

Texas Medical Schools by Region

​​Explore Texas medical schools categorized by region for a clear overview of your educational choices in the state.

Houston Region

  • Baylor College of Medicine
  • University of Texas Health Science Center–Houston (McGovern)
  • University of Houston College of Medicine

Dallas Region

  • University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

San Antonio Region

  • University of Texas Health Science Center–San Antonio
  • University of the Incarnate Word

Austin Region

Galveston Region

Lubbock Region

  • Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Fort Worth Region

  • University of North Texas Health Science Center
  • Texas Christian University

Bryan Region

Conroe Region

  • Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

El Paso Region

  • Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center–El Paso

Tyler Region

  • The University of Texas at Tyler School of Medicine

Edinburg Region

Whether you’re considering the bustling cities of Houston or Dallas, the vibrant academic atmosphere of San Antonio, or the serene beauty of East Texas, the Lone Star State offers a diverse range of medical education opportunities across its regions.

The Best Medical Schools in Texas

So, what are the best medical schools in Texas?

According to the ranking system of the U.S. News and World Report, these are the top-ranked medical schools in Texas based on their research programs.

The criteria included to create this list included the student experience, the number of research activities available, peer and physician commentary on the school, and the admissions statistics of each school. If you are looking for the best of the best med schools in Texas, these are it!

Baylor University campus

  • Baylor College of Medicine: #22 in Best Medical Schools: Research
  • The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center: #24 In Best Medical Schools: Research
  • University of Texas Health Science Center–San Antonio: #50 In Best Medical Schools: Research (tie)
  • University of Texas Health Science Center–Houston (McGovern): #56 In Best Medical Schools: Research (tie)
  • Texas A&M University: #64 In Best Medical Schools: Research (tie)
  • Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center: #96 In Best Medical Schools: Research (tie)
  • University of North Texas Health Science Center: #116 In Best Medical Schools: Research

How to Find More Medical Schools in Texas

Don’t worry if you’re overwhelmed by the process of choosing a medical school! You have a lot of options for med schools in Texas, but our school selection tool down below can help you narrow them down.

To get more accurate results, you can specify the location you’re most interested in. That way, you can be sure to get recommendations for medical schools near you!

What You Need to Know About Applying to Texas Medical Schools

Now that you know about the best Texas medical schools, we can get into the ins and outs of the process of admissions and some unique aspects of getting your medical education in Texas.

The main aspect that sets this process apart is that most of Texas medical schools use the TMDSAS, while a few rely on the AACOM and the AMCAS. The TMDSAS has some important differences from the other applications that you should be aware of before you apply:

  • TMDSAS personal statement maximum character limit is 5000; AMCAS and AACOMAS allow up to 5300.
  • The TMDSAS Activities section permits up to 300 characters per entry, compared to 700 for the AMCAS Work and Activities section. Plus, up to 500 characters are allocated for the TMDSAS “most meaningful” entries versus 1325 characters for AMCAS.
  • TMDSAS requires two additional essays: a Personal Characteristics Essay and an Optional Essay
  • TMDSAS requires in-state applicants to go through a Match process, which essentially means a ranked list of schools and applicants. You make a list of your preferred schools in order, and the process matches you to these schools. If you get a pre-match offer from a school, you can accept it, or you can match it to a school you ranked higher on your list. If you get multiple offers and the completion of the process, you will end up with one final acceptance. You can also receive any alternate offers from a school ranked higher on your list of preferred schools than the match you receive if a school chooses to do so.

If you’re applying to a school that relies on the AACOM or the AMCAS, make sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements.

Also, keep in mind that the competition to get into the best medical schools in Texas is intense. They tend to accept more in-state students than out-of-state students.

In-state tuition is also cheaper, meaning you need to be an especially strong candidate when you apply to set yourself apart from the crowd. That said, tuition, in general, does tend to be more affordable overall, even among the best medical schools in Texas.

Refer to the list above to understand the mission statements and specialties of the top medical schools in Texas. Pick the schools that most closely match your goals, the type of medicine you plan to practice, and your own values. Do not just assume all Texas medical schools are the same; they each have unique aspects that you should look into and thoroughly understand.

Texas Medical School FAQs

We’ve outlined several commonly asked FAQs to help you determine which of the medical schools in Texas to concentrate your efforts on.

1. Can I Apply To Schools in Texas and Elsewhere at the Same Time?

Yes, but you will have to fill out separate applications. Most medical schools in Texas rely on the TMDSAS application system, with the exception of a few, which rely on the AACOMAS or AMCAS.

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2. Are the Best Med Schools in Texas Competitive?

Yes, they are often quite competitive. Not only do they tend to favor in-state applicants, but they also tend to pick students with high GPAs, good MCAT scores, proven volunteering, and extracurricular activities. All of this means you need to craft a stand-out application to improve your chances of success.

3. Do Texas Medical Schools Have Good International Reputations?

Most definitely! They are renowned for research and cancer care, and drug development, as well as for their focus on patient care and helping disadvantaged populations. These schools are competitive for a reason, after all.

4. In What Type of Environments Are Texas Medical Schools Located?

It depends on the school. Institutions in urban areas tend to be part of the energetic city around them, while schools such as UT Rio Grande are more rural. Read up on the areas in which they are located to understand more and ensure the schools you choose match your preferences.

It can be helpful to tailor your application to these environments. For example, positioning yourself as aspiring to be “the small-town, rural doctor” or “the big-city drug researcher” so that you remain memorable to admissions officers.

5. Should I Choose a Recently Established Texas Medical School or a Storied, Historical Institution?

Both options contain schools among the best medical schools in Texas, but it really depends on your style of learning and preferences. Newer schools tend to have smaller class sizes due to their recent dates of establishment, while older schools tend to have larger classes.

Older schools also may tend to be more well-known and carry a more widespread reputation, while newer schools may be more experimental, or they may be trying out new ways of doing medical education.

6. Is It Helpful To Know Spanish When Applying To Texas Medical Schools?

Yes! If you know Spanish natively or have taken Spanish classes and can speak or write it with decent fluency, be sure to mention this in your applications.

Texas has many Spanish-speaking populations, and being able to interact with them in their native language will not only help you stand out as an applicant, but you will also be better able to work with them as a doctor once you graduate.

7. What Are the Best Private Medical Schools in Texas?

According to U.S. News, the best private medical school in Texas is Baylor College of Medicine.

8. What Are the Best Public Medical Schools in Texas?

According to U.S. News, the best public medical schools in Texas are Baylor College of Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and the University of Texas Health Science Center–San Antonio.

Getting Into the Best Medical Schools in Texas

With its many varied and diverse institutions offering competitive programs and low tuition fees, the best Texas medical schools provide a unique opportunity for you. By understanding each school’s unique aspects and applying to them armed with that knowledge, you will have a better chance of success.

Texas has a unique culture—and cuisine: Tex-Mex—for you to enjoy as well. A friendly population and expansive nature to enjoy will surely top off your experience at a Texas medical school.

Best Medical Schools in Texas

The second largest state in the country by both size and population, Texas is a great place to live. It is also an excellent place to go to medical school.

With such a large area and population, it has both big cities such as Houston and Dallas, and rural areas. It also has many medical centers and a large demand for medical professionals.

To determine the best medical schools in Texas, we primarily referred to the U.S. News Report ranking. We looked at rankings for both research and primary care.

best medical schools in texas

Top 5 Medical Schools in Texas

5. Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine

Texas A&M was ranked 80th for best medical schools in research by U.S. News, tied with University of Missouri. It also ranked in the range of #94 – 124 for best medical schools in primary care.

This university supports ample, and crucial research with several prestigious institutes and laboratories. These include the Cardiovascular Research Institute, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, The Texas Brain and Spine Institute, and many more.

Texas A&M’s research centers have created new facial restoration tech, portable water purification for the military, and tuberculosis diagnostics.

Their health science center is a major medical hub, serving more than one million patients every year.

Some students may also opt to enroll in the university’s dual degree programs. These include an M.D./M.S., M.D/M.B.A., M.D./M.P.H., and an M.D./Ph.D.

Its faculty to student ratio is 0.2:1, with 164 full-time faculty and 663 students enrolled full-time.

Full-time, in-state tuition costs $16,220, and out-of-state tuition costs $29,320. Application deadlines are November 1, with a fee of $200.

4. University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston (McGovern)

U.S. News ranked Houston at McGovern 53rd for best medical schools in research. It is tied with Stony Brook University (SUNY) and University of Nebraska Medical Center.

For best medical schools in primary care, this school ranked #76 on U.S. News’s Report. It tied for this status with the Medical University of South Carolina.

They are associated with both the Lyndon Baines Johnson General Hospital and the Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center.

The medical school’s clinical practice is named UT Physicians. It holds the distinction of being one of the largest multi-specialty medical practices in the United States.

This medical school has a faculty to student ratio of 1.6:1, with 1,543 full-time faculty and 962 full-time students.

In-state tuition for full-time students is $17,872, while out-of-state tuition is $26,125. Students wishing to apply need to do so by the Deadline of October 1st and pay the $185 fee.

3. University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio

This school was ranked 47th by U.S. News in best medical schools for research. It was tied with Dartmouth College (Geisel, Wake Forest University, and University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School.

The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, also ranked #36 for Best Medical Schools for Primary Care. It tied with Boston University, Dartmouth College (Geisel), Mayo Clinic School of Medicine (Alix), and University of Arkansas. They all also tied with the University of North Texas Health Science Center.

This university includes the Mays Cancer Center, which is partnered with MD Anderson Cancer Center. Together, they are designated as a National Cancer Institute Cancer.

The Institute for Drug Development within the Mays Cancer Center has one of the largest oncology clinical drug trials in the world. So far, 15 recently approved cancer drugs were tested there.

The faculty to student ratio is 1.2:1, with 1,002 full-time faculty and 857 full-time students.

Full-time, in-state students pay $17,581 per year, while out-of-state students pay $34,763 per year.

Students who would like to apply to this school need to do so by October 1. The application fee is $150.

2. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center ranked #25 by U.S. News Reports for best medical schools in research. It was tied with University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

This medical school ranked #16 for best medical schools in Primary care, along with our No. 1 pick, Baylor College. They both tied for this ranking with University of New Mexico and University of Iowa (Carver), as well.

It is also considered one of the best medical schools in the world, often ranking higher than some Ivy Leagues.

It boasts that its Medical Center is the best hospital in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with compassionate and advanced care. They are also affiliated with the Parkland Memorial Hospital, Children’s Medical Center Dallas, and William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital.

They treat more than 2 million patients per year. This also provides immense hands-on learning for their students.

The university’s Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center is designated a National Cancer Institute “comprehensive” program. It is the only cancer center with this designation in North Texas.

There is also critical research being conducted there about Alzheimer’s, biomarkers in cancer, stem cells, cardiology and regeneration, and more.

They also offer M.D./Ph.D., M.D./M.B.A., M.D./M.P.H, and an M.D./M.S. in Clinical Science, as well.

The faculty to student ratio is an amazing 3:1, with 2,760 full-time faculty for 905 full-time enrolled students.

Anyone wishing to apply to this medical school needs to do this October 1 and pay the $185 application fee.

Tuition costs $20,731 for full-time, in-state students and $33,831 for out-of-state students.

1. Baylor College of Medicine

The No. 1 medical school in Texas is Baylor College of Medicine. U.S. News Reports ranked this school #22 for best medical schools for research, along with Emory University in Georgia.

It was also ranked #16 for best primary care medical schools. As mentioned, it was for this ranking with University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. They were both also tied with University of Iowa (Carver) and University of New Mexico.

Their faculty include 14 Institute of Medicine members, seven National Academy of Sciences members, and three Howard Hughes Medical Institute members.

The university has contributed an abundance of research. It is also known for having created the largest university-based pediatric and family HIV/AIDS treatment program in the world.

In fact, there is over 800,000 square feet at the university dedicated to cutting-edge research facilities. Laboratories include the Human Genome Sequencing Center, The Human Neuroimaging Lab, the Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center and more.

They also have the National School of Tropical Medicine, which is the only one the nation.

Select students may also enroll in one of Baylor’s several dual degree programs. These include an M.D./J.D., and M.D./M.B.A., M.D./M.P.H, and an M.D./Ph.D.

Baylor has one of the best faculty to student ratios at 3.7:1. They employ 2,648 full-time faculty for their 721 full-time students.

Tuition is $19,425 per year for full-time enrollment. Despite Baylor’s distinguished reputation and ranking, it is also noteworthy for having the lowest tuition of all private medical schools.

The application deadline is November 1st, and there is a $100 application fee.

Here is a top list with the best medical schools in the US.

Tips for Getting Accepted

To ensure your best chance at getting accepted to medical school, it is important to follow time-tested techniques.

Two of the most important components of your application to medical school are your GPA and your MCAT scores. The higher these are, the more likely you are to be accepted to your choice of medical school.

It is critical to do your best throughout your undergraduate degree, getting the highest grades you can.

If for any reason your GPA is less than optimal, you may want to do a post-baccalaureate or master’s program. This gives you another chance to develop a better GPA, and also shows commitment. You will learn more, as well!

It is also imperative to study sufficiently for your MCATs. Typically, at least three months of dedicated studying is recommended, but you want or need to study more.

Always do your best, and if necessary, get tutoring. It will be worthwhile in the long run.

Make sure to apply after you have achieved your best MCAT score. You may need to take the test a second or third time, so allow time to do so.

Throughout college, engage in appropriate volunteer work, research, or employment. It is best if these provide an opportunity for you to deepen your learning and/or contribute to the community.

Be thoughtful when writing your personal statement. It should be unique, mindful, and tailored to the university to which you are applying.

Another important step is to compare your GPA and MCATs to the average scores of accepted students for each school. Make sure to apply to at least some schools for which you have average or, preferably, above average scores.

Of course, you should also apply to “stretch,” or goal schools, in addition to the “safety” schools.

Make sure to apply on time, and to submit all required materials.

Also, be sure to visit schools that you are applying to, and learn as much as you can about them. This shows commitment and interest.

Via your application, essay, and interview, demonstrate your remarkable enthusiasm and dedication to medicine, your community, and your future patients.

Maddie Otto
Maddie Otto

Maddie is a second-year medical student at the University of Notre Dame in Sydney and one of Level Medicine’s workshop project managers. Prior to studying medicine, she worked and studied as a musician in Melbourne. She has a background in community arts, which combined her love for both the arts and disability support. She is an advocate for intersectional gender equity, and is passionate about accessibility and inclusive practice within the healthcare system.

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