MD Program Frequently Asked Questions

Admissions Process and Timeline

What is the application timeline at Creighton?

Secondary applications are sent to those with an MCAT score of 500 or greater or those that have scheduled a future MCAT test and yet to have a score. Secondary applications are sent out mid-July and are due by January 15. Primary AMCAS applications are due to AMCAS by Nov 1. Interviews generally occur from September to March.

Do you look at the first-time applicant and the re-applicant differently?

For a re-applicant, we closely examine how the application has been improved since the previous submission.

What if I choose a gap year option?

Many of our successful applicants have taken a gap year, but it is certainly not required. You should apply when you are ready.

What parts of the application does Creighton place the most weight?

We have a holistic approach to our admissions process. Importantly, we want to read about your story and journey to medicine. We look at other many things, including grades and MCAT scores to ensure you can take on the heavy coursework of medical school, and medical experience and physician shadowing to show that you understand what it means to be a physician. Of critical importance, we look for direct non-medical service to others, especially underserved populations, to ensure you fit the culture of a Jesuit institution.

Do you take Transfer Students? What is the process?

Creighton does accept Admission with Transfer/Advanced Standing into the third year for students who have completed their coursework at an LCME Accredited institution. However, due to our low attrition rates, available positions are few. We will know around May of each year if there will be expected openings within the M3 Class.

Letters of Recommendation

How many letters of recommendation should I submit?

We require a minimum of 3 letters and have a maximum of 6. You may use your discretion when selecting letter-writers. A committee letter is preferred (if available), but not required.

From whom should I request letters of recommendation?

When a committee letter is not available, we suggest you provide us with two science faculty letters and one non-science faculty letter, but we leave it up to you to determine who are the ideal persons, those who know you well, to help us assess your candidacy for medical school.

MCAT

Do you have a minimum threshold for MCAT?

Secondary applications go out to applicants with an MCAT of 500 or greater or those who have a future MCAT test date.

How do you view multiple MCAT attempts?

We look at your most recent MCAT score and do not have any sub-section cutoff scores.

Can I submit my application if I do not have my MCAT scores back yet?

Yes, you can submit a secondary application if you are waiting on an MCAT score.

What is the last MCAT test date that Creighton will look at?

The last MCAT we take is in September of each cycle.

Phoenix Campus

Do you have a Medical School in Phoenix

Yes. As of the fall of 2021, we have a full Four-year regional campus in Phoenix. Learn more about the Creighton University Phoenix Health Sciences Campus.

How do I apply for admissions at the Phoenix Campus?

There is a single application for Creighton University School of Medicine. On the secondary application you will indicate your preference for which campus (or either) you would like to attend.

How does the Phoenix campus differ from the Omaha campus?

Per LCME accreditation requirements, the curriculum and other aspects of the medical educational experience must be essentially the same.

Prerequisites

What are the required courses for admission?

Creighton University School of Medicine has no defined prerequisite course requirements. However, as preparatory to the MCAT and a rigorous medical school curriculum, we recommend the following recent (past 3 years) coursework in an accredited 4-year college/university in the United States or Canada: Strong background in biology including introductory and advanced courses, e.g., physiology, immunology, and genetics. Strong background in chemistry including introductory and advanced courses, e.g., biochemistry. Additionally, coursework in English, humanities and statistics is strongly recommended. Minimum total coursework credits in biology, chemistry, physics, and math should be 40-45 hours.

Do you require an undergraduate degree?

Yes, you must have completed a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for admission.

What extracurriculars do you require?

The committee highly values applicants to have a foundation in non-medical service to underserved populations through volunteer activities and diverse clinical/medical activities that include physician shadowing, and patient contact. Scientific research, although not a requirements, is also valued.

Residency and Citizenship

Are there any preferences based on residents vs. non-residents?

No, as a private institution, Creighton does not place preference on place of residence. There is no difference in tuition cost for in-state vs out-of-state.

Can I apply to your medical school if I completed my undergraduate degree outside of the US or Canada?

No, in order to qualify for admission applicants are asked to complete their required courses at an accredited four-year institution in the United States or Canada.

Do you take International Students? Do you take Canadian citizens?

To qualify for admission, the School of Medicine requires applicants to be United States citizens or United States permanent residents.

Secondary Application

How do I obtain a secondary application?

When we receive your verified application from AMCAS, we will send you an email with an invitation to complete the secondary application if your MCAT score was greater than 500.

What is the secondary application fee?

$100

How can I get an application fee waiver?

Creighton honors the AAMCAS fee waiver granting process. We regret that we are unable to grant fee waivers outside of this process.

Special Features

How does Creighton abide by Jesuit tradition and serve the underserved in the medical curriculum?

We believe medicine is a sacred calling, and our Ignatian values guide the formation of our students for lifetimes of professional, emotional and spiritual growth. Cura personalis, care for the entire patient, springs from our own gratitude and calls us to a spirit of generosity. Living our call to faith that does justice puts the Creighton family in solidarity with those most in need. We must ensure that every human being, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, ideology or social standing, has the opportunity to develop his or her God-given gifts. Magis, the more or the extra effort, drives us to excellence in the service of others, especially advocacy for the most vulnerable members of our society. Creighton physicians recognize that healthcare inequity is immoral and unethical.

View the complete curriculum in the School of Medicine catalog.

Do you have a mentoring program such as assigning students a faculty advisor?

Yes, we have a formal mentoring program and involves both students and faculty.

What international opportunities exist at Creighton?

On average 30-40% of our students go on an international rotation. Students have the opportunity to spend part of their M1 summer or M4 year abroad in locations including Gambia, Ghana, Cambodia, Peru, India and Romania with Project Cura or in the Dominican Republic with the Institute for Latin American Concern (ILAC). Utilizing their skills and compassion to improve the lives of those in need, while learning to appreciate the diverse cultures they serve.

When do students start seeing patients?

Students will start seeing patients in the M1 year. Students will see patients in our simulation lab and will also have early inpatient and primary care exposures