Upenn Premed Requirements

As a test that combines material from a variety of different subjects, it’s important to build in time to either take a formal course or self-study each topic. At Penn, here’s a list of courses that encompass the majority of tested material and which you should consider taking prior to the MCAT:

How to Succeed as a UPenn Premed

Learn how to navigate premed at the University of Pennsylvania, including UPenn premed requirements, the best premed extracurriculars, and the UPenn premed acceptance rate

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: UPenn premed requirements

Part 3: UPenn premed extracurriculars

Part 4: Getting into medical school from UPenn

Part 1: Introduction

Though the University of Pennsylvania is often celebrated as a business-world powerhouse, it is also a top-tier school for premeds. The numbers support this conclusion: Penn (also known as “UPenn”) ranks second among the Ivy League and lands in the top 10 among private universities nationally when it comes to the number of graduates applying to medical school, with over 300 applicants in 2021.

The reasons for this large number of applicants are numerous. Combining an Ivy League undergraduate education with close affiliations with the renowned Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Penn provides the resources that can set you up for premed success. Each of these affiliates are located just steps away from the undergraduate campus, making opportunities for research, volunteering, and shadowing accessible. Plus, Penn’s location in West Philadelphia allows premeds to get deeply involved with the local community, including opportunities to work with a variety of vulnerable populations.

Penn has other unique programs and resources that help it stand out among premed programs. One example is the Vagelos Scholars Program in the Molecular Life Sciences, a specific degree program that provides mentoring and coursework aimed toward a career in biomedical research, with many of its alumni attending top MD and MD/PhD programs such as Johns Hopkins, Harvard, WUSTL, and Stanford, in addition to a large number that have stayed at Penn. The full list of outcomes for this program can be found on their website.

Furthermore, Penn has an incredibly long and storied role in the history of American medicine. The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine traces its founding back to 1765, making it the oldest medical school in the United States. The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1874, is the oldest academic hospital in the United States. Even the founder of the university, Benjamin Franklin, made significant contributions to medicine, including writing on the placebo effect and vaccination, identifying several symptoms of lead poisoning, and even inventing a new type of flexible urethral catheter.

Despite the many advantages that come with being a premed at Penn, there can also be significant challenges. Given the top-notch caliber of the undergraduates who attend Penn, competition in premed courses can be fierce, and it can be difficult to maintain a high GPA. Even outside of the classroom, you may be faced with competition for leadership positions in clubs, complicating your goal of creating a strong overall resume.

Taking advantage of the opportunities presented by a Penn education while meeting its challenges requires careful planning and lots of hard work. In this guide, which was created using insight from current Penn premeds and alumni, we’ll offer advice on how to succeed in the classroom, how to cultivate a diverse resume of volunteer activities and extracurriculars that will help your application stand out, and ways to develop your passion for medicine through clinical experiences. Finally, we’ll evaluate where Penn premeds have gone after graduation and what may have led to their outcomes.

Together, this information will provide an excellent template to help you accomplish your goal of becoming yet another successful Penn premed.

Part 2: UPenn premed requirements

At a school like Penn, you have an incredible array of courses at your fingertips. Penn undergraduates have the ability to take classes in any of the 12 schools on campus through its One University plan, giving you course options in everything from biology to veterinary medicine to business classes at Wharton. These diverse opportunities allow you to explore and develop your own unique interests, and taking advantage of them can help make you a more well-rounded person and, ultimately, medical school applicant.

As a premed, however, you will have to complete specific course requirements in order to apply to medical school. These include courses in math, biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, and English. Penn offers some advice for course selection and scheduling here.

In addition to the guide offered by Penn’s Career Services office above, here’s a table offering suggestions on potential courses that will satisfy the requirements for the majority of medical schools. Be sure to confirm with individual programs, however, for more specific requirements that some schools may have.

As you can see from the recommendations above, certain subjects offer several classes that will satisfy medical school requirements. For example, for your first semester of general chemistry, you can take either Chemistry 1011 or 1012. Per the course catalog from the Penn Department of Chemistry, 1011 and 1012 will ultimately cover similar material; however, 1011 is designed for students with less high school background in chemistry and mathematics, and will focus more on developing problem-solving strategies.

A similar choice is present for introductory biology. You can choose between Biology 1101 and 1121, with 1121 being suited to students with a stronger background in biology.

In addition to deciding what courses to take, deciding when you take them can be just as important. If you plan on applying to medical school without taking a gap year, you will inevitably have some semesters that require taking multiple premed courses simultaneously—for instance, taking both biology and general chemistry, or physics and biochemistry, at the same time. Since these courses are often difficult and the grades you earn in them will be important, it is key to plan ahead and mitigate these conflicts as much as possible.

Some factors to consider when planning your courses:

• Courses required for your major(s), minor(s), and any other certificates
• Whether you intend to study abroad
• General Education requirements for graduation, including your Foundational Approaches (including foreign language) and Sectors of Knowledge
• Prerequisites for some premed courses (consult the course catalog for specific requirements)
• When you plan to take the MCAT (more on this below)
• If you intend to take a gap year, since this will allow additional time to complete your requirements
• Balancing more difficult courses (often your premed requirements) with less challenging courses (often your graduation requirements)

Sample UPenn premed two-year course plan

To help with your course selection, here’s one potential schedule for a Penn premed who intends to take the MCAT during the fall or winter of junior year and apply to medical school during senior year (i.e., without taking a gap year before medical school).

How to maintain a high GPA as a UPenn premed

Being a premed student at Penn can be extremely difficult, especially when it comes to maintaining a high GPA. Premed courses tackle challenging subjects like organic chemistry, which employ skills you haven’t been exposed to in the past, such as thinking in three-dimensional space or working backwards through a complex synthesis of a molecule.

This difficulty can be compounded by the fact that many of your classes will be graded on a curve, putting you in competition with your peers. This is especially true at Penn, where just to gain admission as an undergraduate requires top-notch academic abilities. Plus, Penn isn’t particularly known for having grade inflation, which can make obtaining the GPA necessary for medical school admission an obstacle for many.

While the challenges of maintaining a high GPA as a Penn premed are considerable, there are also significant advantages to the type of coursework you will complete:

• First, there are numerous opportunities for academic support that can help you identify and address your weaknesses.
• Second, the difficult coursework at Penn can be excellent preparation for the material on the MCAT, as well as a great primer in how to study for the difficult courses you can expect in medical school.
• Finally, when it comes to getting into medical school, applicants from Penn over-perform applicants nationally with similar GPAs, as seen by data on the Career Services website. This suggests that medical schools do, to some degree, take into account the difficulty that comes with being a Penn premed.

Nevertheless, here is some advice for premed success at Penn:

• Use academic support. Penn offers a wide variety of options for finding support in your courses. The Weingarten Center offers tutoring services in many common premed subjects, such as chemistry, physics, and organic chemistry. They also offer workshops to improve your study habits and even full one-on-one sessions with learning consultants.
• Talk to your professors and TAs. Nearly all courses will have office hours, often with both professors and TAs. These can be great sessions for practicing extra problems or getting additional insight into a topic you might be struggling with.
• Choose the right professor for your class. Many courses employ multiple instructors for a single course or change instructors from year to year. Utilize resources like older students, the Penn subreddit, and Rate My Professor in order to find out more about individual professors’ teaching styles, and choose accordingly.
• Make use of old exams and problem sets. Both old exams and problem sets offer a window into the mind of your professor and can give you a strong sense of the type of questions likely to appear on your exam. Try to use at least some of these questions to simulate your exam by completing the questions without resources or the answer key. After you complete the questions, focus on where your thinking was incorrect to try to address your deficits.
• Consider pre-studying. If you are concerned about a specific course, consider getting a head start on the material prior to the semester. If you can, find and utilize materials from the course you are planning to take, but if those are not available, there are frequently similar courses offered at other schools that are available on YouTube or OpenCourseware.
• Consider taking courses in the summer. Taking classes over the summer provides the benefit of spreading your course load out over a longer period of time and decreasing the overlap between often-challenging premed requirements. It is also commonly thought that summer courses have an easier curve than those during the school year, though that is not always the case. While we recommend taking the majority of your classes at Penn, classes taken at other universities during the summer may also be easier than the same course at Penn.
• Don’t take an unnecessarily challenging course load. At Penn, it can be easy to fall into the temptation of pursuing an extra class or even an extra major or minor. While additional courses can be rewarding, be cautious when adding onto your workload, as this may make it more difficult to participate in extracurricular activities, shadow, conduct research, or even keep up your GPA. Try to maintain a relatively even number of courses per semester to avoid overextending yourself.
• Work hard. Being a premed at Penn is not easy. Achieving top grades will require a significant amount of time devoted not just to memorizing the material, but also to fully understanding and applying complex concepts. This can be a challenge for even the brightest of students, so prepare yourself for some long nights and early mornings.

What’s the best premed major at Penn?

Among premeds, rumors commonly spread that your chances of getting into medical school are significantly different based on your major. Some say that medical schools value the rigor of a degree in the life sciences, while others suggest that programs actually want unique or well-rounded students from a nontraditional major. In reality, the data shows that students from a wide variety of majors have successfully applied to medical school and that there isn’t one overall best major for premeds.

At Penn, you have an incredible array of majors that you can pursue. Successful applicants have come from the traditional premed majors of chemistry and biology but also from fields as varied as French, anthropology, and even Wharton (i.e., business). Here’s an article from the Daily Pennsylvanian about a few premeds who pursued more unusual majors.

Despite this, in general, premeds at Penn major in many of the same areas as premeds nationally, typically in the life sciences. This is not only because students in medicine are commonly interested in the sciences, but also because the requirements for this type of major will overlap significantly with your premed courses. That’s not to say you cannot major in something without significant overlap, but doing so will involve completing a larger number of courses.

Other relatively common majors among premeds that are more specific to Penn include neuroscience (formerly biological basis of behavior or BBB), as well as health and society. The latter can be a great major for a potential premed since it combines the scientific rigor of your premed courses with a focus on the social context of health through training in history, sociology, and anthropology.

Choosing your major comes down to answering a few questions:

• Where do my passions lie?
• Can I complete my degree and my premed courses?
• Can I maintain a high GPA?

When should you take the MCAT?

Just as it’s important to plan out the ideal time to take each of your premed courses, it’s also important to consider when to take the MCAT. This planning should incorporate your individual goals and preparation, including your coursework, time available for dedicated study, and plans for gap years, if any.

For a student at Penn who does not intend to take a gap year, we suggest taking the exam during the fall of your junior year. This timing allows you to utilize your first two years at Penn to complete many of the courses tested on the exam, and it provides you with the summer prior to junior year for dedicated study time. By taking the MCAT in the fall, you’d also allow yourself time to retake the exam if necessary prior to submitting your application, eliminating the potential need to add a gap year.

As a test that combines material from a variety of different subjects, it’s important to build in time to either take a formal course or self-study each topic. At Penn, here’s a list of courses that encompass the majority of tested material and which you should consider taking prior to the MCAT:

• Chemistry 1011 (or 1012) and 1022
• Biology 1101 and 1102
• Physics 0101 and 0102 (or 150/151)
• Chemistry 2411/2412 and 2421/2422
• Chemistry 2510 (or Biology 2810)

In addition to these courses, you may also consider taking introductory classes in psychology and sociology—for example, Psychology 001 and Sociology 001. Both sociology and psychology are present on the MCAT, though only to a minor degree relative to the topics recommended above. Therefore, many students find that this material can be self-studied in lieu of taking a formal class.

Since the MCAT will require you to apply concepts from courses you may have taken early in your college career, it is also important to focus on retention rather than just memorization in these courses.

Finally, while these courses at Penn will cover the vast majority of material on the exam, it is also important to utilize other resources when studying for the MCAT. College-level science courses in some cases may miss basic concepts that might be tested and, in other cases, may teach at a higher level than is necessary for acing the exam. Thus, adding specific test preparation materials can be important.

Exploring Pre-Med at UPenn

If you’re considering a career in medicine, the University of Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive Pre-Med track that can help you build a solid foundation for your future studies. This article will guide you through the various aspects of the Pre-Med program at the UPenn, including the curriculum, application process, and opportunities available to pre-med students.

Understanding the Pre-Med Track

The Pre-Med track at the University of Pennsylvania is a comprehensive program that prepares students for the rigorous demands of medical school. Through a combination of rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of medicine.

The Basics of Pre-Med Studies

Pre-Med studies at the UPenn involve a combination of rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences that prepare students for medical school. The program covers fundamental subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and math, providing a strong scientific basis for students pursuing a career in medicine.

Students have the opportunity to delve into these subjects in depth, exploring the intricacies of the human body and its functions. Through laboratory experiments, research projects, and clinical experiences, students gain practical skills that will serve them well in their future medical careers.

Furthermore, the program emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore other fields such as psychology, sociology, and ethics. This holistic approach ensures that Pre-Med students develop a well-rounded understanding of healthcare and its societal implications.

Key Courses in the Pre-Med Curriculum

The Pre-Med curriculum at the University of Pennsylvania includes a set of key courses that are essential for aspiring medical professionals. These courses go beyond the basic sciences, delving into the complexities of the human body and its diseases.

One such course is Organic Chemistry, which explores the structure, properties, and reactions of organic compounds. Through hands-on laboratory experiments, students gain a deep understanding of chemical reactions and their applications in medicine.

Another important course is Biochemistry, which focuses on the chemical processes and molecular interactions that occur within living organisms. This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the biochemical basis of life, laying the foundation for advanced studies in medicine.

Genetics and Cell Biology are also key courses in the Pre-Med curriculum. These courses delve into the intricacies of genetic inheritance, cellular processes, and the molecular mechanisms that underlie human development and disease. Through these classes, students gain a deeper understanding of the foundational principles that underpin the study of medicine.

Moreover, the curriculum also emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are vital for success in medical school and beyond. Through group projects, presentations, and research papers, students develop the ability to analyze complex medical scenarios, communicate effectively with patients and colleagues, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.

The Role of Advisors in Pre-Med Studies

Advisors play a crucial role in guiding Pre-Med students throughout their academic journey at the University of Pennsylvania. These advisors are experienced professionals who provide valuable insights, support, and mentorship to help students navigate the challenges of the Pre-Med track.

From choosing the right courses to offering guidance on extracurricular activities, advisors are an invaluable resource for Pre-Med students. They work closely with students to create personalized academic plans, ensuring that each student’s unique interests and goals are taken into account.

Advisors also provide guidance on preparing for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a standardized exam that is required for admission to medical school. They offer resources and strategies to help students succeed in the exam, including practice tests, study materials, and test-taking techniques.

In addition, advisors assist students in selecting medical schools that align with their career aspirations and personal preferences. They provide information on different programs, admission requirements, and opportunities for research and clinical experiences.

Furthermore, advisors help students craft a compelling application that highlights their strengths, experiences, and passion for medicine. They offer feedback on personal statements, resumes, and letters of recommendation, ensuring that each application presents a well-rounded and compelling picture of the student’s qualifications.

In conclusion, the Pre-Med track at the University of Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive and well-rounded education for aspiring medical professionals. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, hands-on experiences, and personalized guidance, students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to succeed in their journey towards a career in medicine.

Navigating the Application Process for Pre-Med

Applying to the Pre-Med program at the UPenn is an exciting and important step towards pursuing a career in medicine. To ensure a successful application, it is crucial to understand the eligibility criteria, application timeline, and tips for standing out among other applicants.

Eligibility Criteria for Pre-Med

Before applying, it is important to meet the eligibility criteria set by the University of Pennsylvania. Prospective students must have a strong academic record, with a focus on science-based courses. Prerequisite coursework typically includes biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus.

However, academic requirements are not the only consideration. The university also values applicants who demonstrate a genuine passion for medicine and patient care. This can be showcased through relevant extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or research experiences.

By meeting both the academic and non-academic criteria, prospective students can present a well-rounded application that highlights their potential as future healthcare professionals.

Application Timeline and Deadlines

Understanding the application timeline and adhering to specific deadlines is crucial for a successful application to the Pre-Med program at the University of Pennsylvania.

Typically, applications for Pre-Med programs open in the fall. It is highly recommended to submit your application well in advance of the stated deadline. This allows ample time for review and ensures that all required documents, such as transcripts and letters of recommendation, are received.

By submitting your application early, you demonstrate your commitment and dedication to the program, which can positively impact the admissions committee’s perception of your candidacy.

Tips for a Successful Application

When applying to the Pre-Med program at the University of Pennsylvania, it is crucial to submit a well-rounded application that highlights your strengths and experiences. Here are a few tips to increase your chances of success:

1. Focus on your academic achievements, particularly in science subjects. Highlight any honors, awards, or research projects that showcase your dedication to learning and excellence.
2. Showcase your dedication to medicine through relevant extracurricular activities and community service. This can include volunteering at hospitals or clinics, participating in medical mission trips, or shadowing healthcare professionals.
3. Obtain strong letters of recommendation from professors, advisors, or healthcare professionals who can attest to your potential. These letters should highlight your academic abilities, work ethic, and personal qualities that make you a strong candidate for the program.
4. Craft a compelling personal statement that outlines your motivations, future goals, and how the Pre-Med program fits into your career aspirations. Use this opportunity to showcase your passion for medicine and your unique perspective on healthcare.

By following these tips, you can present a comprehensive and compelling application that sets you apart from other applicants and increases your chances of being accepted into the Pre-Med program at the University of Pennsylvania.

Opportunities for Pre-Med Students at the University of Pennsylvania

Are you a Pre-Med student looking for exciting opportunities to enhance your medical education? With its world-class research facilities, extensive internship programs, and vibrant student organizations, UPenn offers a plethora of avenues for you to explore and grow as a future healthcare professional studying for Pre-Med.

Research Opportunities

At the University of Pennsylvania, they believe that research is the cornerstone of medical advancement. That’s why they provide numerous research opportunities for Pre-Med students to gain hands-on experience in a scientific or medical research setting. Engaging in research not only enhances your understanding of medical concepts but also allows you to contribute to advancements in the healthcare field.

Through partnerships with world-renowned research institutions and faculty-led projects, Pre-Med students at the University of Pennsylvania have the chance to explore various areas of medicine and develop valuable skills in data analysis, experimentation, and critical thinking. Imagine working side by side with leading researchers, conducting groundbreaking studies, and making discoveries that could shape the future of medicine!

Internships and Clinical Experience

At UPenn, they understand the importance of real-world exposure in preparing our Pre-Med students for their future careers. That’s why internships and clinical experience are integral components of our Pre-Med program. These experiential opportunities provide students with invaluable insights into the medical field, helping them develop essential skills and knowledge.

Whether it’s shadowing physicians, volunteering in hospitals or clinics, or interning at healthcare organizations, Pre-Med students at Penn have the chance to witness firsthand the day-to-day realities of medical professionals. This experience not only confirms their career choice but also provides a deeper understanding of patient care and the healthcare system.

Student Organizations and Clubs

At UPenn, they believe that learning extends beyond the classroom. That’s why they offer a wide range of student organizations and clubs dedicated to medicine and healthcare. These groups provide an ideal platform for Pre-Med students to connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate on projects, and explore various specialties within the medical field.

From pre-medical societies and research clubs to community service organizations, there are ample opportunities to engage with peers who share similar academic and career interests. These organizations also host workshops, guest lectures, and networking events that can further enhance your knowledge and professional network. Imagine the connections you could make and the friendships you could forge with fellow aspiring healthcare professionals!

So, if you’re ready to embark on an enriching journey towards becoming a healthcare professional, the University of Pennsylvania is the perfect place for you. With our research opportunities, internships, and student organizations, you’ll have the tools and support you need to thrive and make a difference in the world of medicine.

Preparing for Medical School

The journey to becoming a medical professional is an exciting and challenging one. Aspiring doctors must navigate through various stages, starting with the Pre-Med track. One crucial component of this track is the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), which plays a significant role in the medical school application process.

MCAT Preparation Resources

At the UPenn, Pre-Med students have access to comprehensive MCAT preparation resources. These resources include workshops, study guides, and mock exams, all designed to help students perform their best on this important standardized test.

Led by experienced instructors or medical professionals, these resources not only provide students with the necessary knowledge but also equip them with valuable test-taking strategies. Additionally, the University offers personalized tutoring and study groups to cater to individual learning needs, ensuring that every student has the support they need to excel on the MCAT.

Choosing the Right Medical School

Once you have completed your Pre-Med studies at the UPenn, the next step is to choose the right medical school that aligns with your professional aspirations. This decision is crucial, as it will shape your medical education and future career.

When considering different medical schools, it is important to conduct thorough research. Factors such as curriculum, research opportunities, location, and student support services should all be taken into account. Consulting with advisors, mentors, and current medical students can provide valuable insights into different schools and help you make an informed decision.

Transitioning from Pre-Med to Medical School

Transitioning from the Pre-Med track to medical school is a significant milestone in your journey towards becoming a doctor. The University of Pennsylvania understands the challenges and excitement that come with this transition and offers resources and support to help students navigate it seamlessly.

Advisors continue to play a crucial role during this transition, providing guidance and answering any questions that arise during the application process. Their expertise and experience can be invaluable as you navigate the complexities of medical school admissions.

In addition to advisors, the University’s alumni network can be a valuable source of information and mentorship as you embark on your medical school journey. Connecting with alumni who have successfully made the transition from Pre-Med to medical school can provide you with insights, advice, and support.

Remember, the journey to becoming a doctor is not just about academic excellence. It also involves personal growth, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. By actively engaging in research, internships, and extracurricular activities, you can enhance your overall application and position yourself for success in your future medical career.

In conclusion, the Pre-Med track at the University of Pennsylvania offers a solid foundation for students aspiring to pursue a career in medicine. With a comprehensive curriculum, valuable resources, and numerous opportunities for hands-on experience, the University prepares students for the challenges and rigors of medical school. By following the guidance provided by advisors and engaging in research, internships, and extracurricular activities, Pre-Med students at the University of Pennsylvania position themselves for success in their future medical careers.