Top Medical Schools in USA: Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Doctors

Aspiring physicians often dream of attending one of the top medical schools in the United States. Top medical schools in the USA which students can look at are Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and the University of Pennsylvania to name a few. As you go through this blog post, you will explore the factors that make these institutions stand out, the list of top medical schools in the USA, eligibility criteria, intake periods, the rigorous admissions process, and much more.

Medical Schools in USA: Quick Overview

Medical universities in the USA are known for their extensive and rigorous curriculum with the duration of the course spanning for a period of nine years, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse clinical experiences. The medicine course in the US includes a four-year undergraduate degree followed by a three to seven-year residency program. The USA is a highly sought-after location for medical education because of its worldwide exposure and networking opportunities, which improve job chances.

Make sure you keep reading this article to find out what makes the United States a top hot spot for Indian students pursuing medical education

Here is a quick overview of everything you need to know to kickstart your journey of becoming a doctor in the USA.

Particulars	Details
Top Medical Schools in the USA for Indian Students	Harvard Medical SchoolJohns Hopkins School of MedicineStanford University School of Medicine
Expected Fees for Studying Medicine in the USA	USD 69,960 to USD 75,790
Application Timeline	Early May: Application opening, Late May-June: Primary applications, June-August: Secondary applications September-March: InterviewsOctober-May: Acceptance notifications
Visa Process	Obtain Form I-20Pay SEVIS Fess (USD 338.14)Complete DS-160 FormSchedule and attend visa interview (Visa Fee: USD 157.41)
Top Scholarships for Medical Schools in the USA	Harvard Medical School Financial AidJohns Hopkins University ScholarshipsStanford University School of Medicine Financial Aid

Also Read: MBBS in USA After 12th: Universities, Fees, Application Process

Criteria for Ranking Medical Schools in USA

Before we begin exploring the list of top medical schools in the USA, let us look at the factors that determine the ranking of medical schools. 

1. Reputation and Peer Assessment: Surveys of deans, faculty, and other healthcare professionals to assess the quality and standing of a school.

2. Research Output and Funding: The total research grants and funding the school receives, often from government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

3. Primary Care and Clinical Training: Schools that emphasise training in primary care, community health, and rural medicine may rank higher in some systems.

4. Admissions Criteria: The number of applicants accepted relative to the number of applicants. Another criterion for getting admission is the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) score and undergraduate GPA of accepted students.

5. Graduation Rate: The percentage of students who complete the program and earn their degree, reflecting the institution’s ability to support students through their education.

6. Student-to-Faculty Ratio: A lower student-to-faculty ratio can indicate more personalised attention and mentoring for students.

7. Faculty Quality: The number of faculty members who hold significant academic or professional accomplishments, including distinguished awards and leadership in medical research or education.

8. Facilities and Technology: Access to modern medical labs, simulation centres, and other resources for education and training.

Top 10 Medical Schools in the USA

If you are wondering about the top medical schools in the USA we have got you covered. Did you know that Harvard University’s Medical School was named the world’s top medical school in the QS World University Rankings by Subject in 2024? Stanford University School of Medicine and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine were next in line. 

Let us now look at the list of top 10 medical schools in the USA, along with their average tuition fees, acceptance rate, average MCAT score and much more. The below-mentioned universities are known for offering exceptional education and research opportunities, attracting all aspiring doctors from around the world.

Harvard Medical School

Harvard Medical School, established in the year 178, is located in Boston, Massachusetts. Harvard University is renowned for offering exceptional leadership in medical education, research, and clinical care. Moreover, the school also has some world-class faculty and technologies allowing students with premier medical education. The university also offers students some of the top programs to prepare them for a successful career ahead. 

Harvard Medical School QS World Ranking 2025	#4 (Globally)
Harvard Medical School Acceptance Rate	3.15% for in-state applicants
Average MCAT Score	520.59
Average Tuition Fees	USD 45,050
Top Programs at Harvard Medical School	Bioinformatics and Integrative Genomics, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Chemical Biology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology
Notable Alumni	Dr. Harold Amos (American microbiologist), Dr. Judah Folkman (American biologist and paediatric surgeon)

Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

The John Hopkins School of Medicine located in Baltimore, Maryland is yet another prestigious university known for its groundbreaking research and outstanding medical education. John Hopkins University has a history of medical innovations and excellence. It is also affiliated with one of the best hospitals in the United States offering students with exceptional clinical training and research opportunities.

Johns Hopkins School of Medicine QS World Ranking 2025	#=32
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Acceptance Rate	6.4%
Average MCAT Score	521
Average Tuition Fees	USD 64,730 per year
Top Programs at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine	Chemistry, Immunology, Physics, Epidemiology, Public Health, Biology, DNP Leadership
Notable Alumni	Denton Cooley (American surgeon), Victor A. McKusick (American geneticist)

Stanford University School of Medicine

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford University School of Medicine is said to be a global leader in medical research, education and clinical care. The university also offers a flexible and dynamic curriculum to foster innovation, critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration. The university is affiliated with Stanford Health Care, one of the nation’s leading medical centres where medical students gain hands-on experience with a diverse patient population.

Stanford University School of MedicineQS World Ranking 2025	#6
Stanford University School of MedicineAcceptance Rate	1.1%
Average MCAT Score	518–520
Average Tuition Fees	USD 20,365 per quarter (2024)
Top Programs at Stanford University School of Medicine	Dermatology, Gastroenterology, Obstetrics & Gyn, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, Podiatry, Pulmonology
Notable Alumni	Karl Deisseroth (American scientist), Shreyas Vasanawala (American paediatric radiologist and biomedical engineer)

UCSF School of Medicine

The University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, founded in 1864 and located in San Francisco, California is known for its groundbreaking biomedical research, top-class education, and outstanding patient care. The university is also ranked among the top five medical schools in the United States. Additionally, the university is the country’s highest-funding institution for biomedical research. Lastly, the university is affiliated with the UCSF Medical Center, ranked among the top hospitals nationwide where students gain hands-on experience. 

UCSF School of Medicine QS World Ranking	#8 (2024)
UCSF School of Medicine Acceptance Rate	2%
Average MCAT Score	517
Average Tuition Fees	USD 86,291, including tuition, supplies, services, and other fees
Top Programs at UCSF School of Medicine	Psychiatry, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Internal medicine
Notable Alumni	Priscilla Chan (Paediatrician), William R. Brody (American radiologist)

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine

The University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia is one of the oldest medical schools in the USA. The University is known for its interdisciplinary approach and pioneering research. The school of medicine is also affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania Health System where students are exposed to a wide range of clinical environments and advanced medical technologies.

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine QS World Ranking 2025	#11 (Globally)
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Acceptance Rate	3.8%
Average MCAT Score	521.8–522
Average Tuition Fees	USD 91,184 and USD 100,019 per year
Top Programs at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine	Biochemistry, Pediatrics, Pediatrics, Anesthesiology, OB-GYN, Psychiatry
Notable Alumni	Michael Stuart Brown (American geneticist), Robert M. Wachter (Physician)

Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons

Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons is yet another oldest and one of the most prestigious medical schools in the US. The university is affiliated with NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, one of the top hospitals. It allows students to conduct groundbreaking research and perform clinical trials. 

Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons QS World Ranking 2025	#34
Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons Acceptance Rate	39.40%
Average MCAT Score	520
Average Tuition Fees	USD 25,018 per semester (2025)
Top Programs at Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons	Program in Genetic Counseling, Human Nutrition, and Occupational Therapy
Notable Alumni	P. Roy Vagelos, Story Musgrave (American physician)

Yale University School of Medicine

Yale University School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut is an excellent university known for medical education and research. The school’s curriculum encourages independent thinking and self-directed learning preparing students to excel in the dynamic field of healthcare. The school is affiliated with Yale New Haven Hospital, one of the greatest hospitals in the region for students to gain invaluable clinical training experiences. 

Yale University School of Medicine QS World Ranking 2025	#10
Yale University School of Medicine Acceptance Rate	5.5%
Average MCAT Score	522
Average Tuition Fees	USD 72,290
Top Programs at Yale University School of Medicine	Anesthesiology, Dermatology, Internal Medicine, Ophthalmology, Orthopaedic Surgery, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, and General Surgery
Notable Alumni	Brian Weiss (American psychiatrist and hypnotherapist), Aaron Beck (American psychiatrist)

Duke University School of Medicine

Located in Durham, North Carolina, the Duke University School of Medicine is renowned for its innovative approach to medical education and research. The school offers a unique curriculum that emphasises early clinical exposure and interdisciplinary collaboration. The university is affiliated with the Duke University Health System giving access to students with cutting-edge medical facilities.

Duke University School of Medicine QS World Ranking 2025	#61
Duke University School of Medicine  Acceptance Rate	1.39%
Average MCAT Score	510–526
Average Tuition Fees	USD 51,212
Top Programs at Duke University School of Medicine	Surgery, Anesthesia, Radiology, Pediatrics, Obstetrics/gynecology
Notable Alumni	Vanessa Grubbs (Nephrologist), Damon Tweedy (Physician)

Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

The Washington University School of Medicine in St.Louis is renowned for its contributions to medical research and education. Apart from this, the medical school offers a comprehensive curriculum emphasising scientific inquiry and clinical excellence. Affiliated with Barnes-Jewish Hospital, it provides students with access to a wide range of clinical training opportunities. 

Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis QS World Ranking 2025	#=171
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis Acceptance Rate	13%
Average MCAT Score	522
Average Tuition Fees	Around USD 67,295
Top Programs at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis	Medical education (MD), occupational therapy, audiology and communication sciences, and physical therapy
Notable Alumni	Pejman Salimpour (Physician), Timothy J. Ley (Hematologist)

Weill Cornell Medical College

Weill Cornell Medical College, located in New York City is one of the leading institutions for medical education, research, and patient care. Like other top medical universities in the US, it offers a dynamic and innovative curriculum integrating basic sciences with clinical practice. The college is affiliated with New York-Presbyterian Hospital, providing students access to a diverse patient population and the latest medical technologies. 

Weill Cornell Medical College QS World Ranking 2025	#16
Weill Cornell Medical College Acceptance Rate	1.4%
Average MCAT Score	519
Average Tuition Fees	USD 34,711
Top Programs at Weill Cornell Medical College	Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, and Molecular Biology
Notable Alumni	Anthony Fauci (Former Chief Medical Advisor to the President of the US), Dr. Mae C. Jemison

Also Read: Best Medical Programs in USA

Medical Schools in USA: Admission Process

After you have chosen the university where you wish to complete your medical education, the applicant must see that there is a set criteria that the student must complete before applying for the same. Take a look at the steps which the student must complete before applying to any university.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for further education in a medical school, the applicant must have a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with majors in Physics, Biology, and Chemistry. Apart from this, here are the additional requirements that will be needed for admission. 

1. Language Proficiency Test: All prospective students will have to demonstrate English proficiency either through the IELTS, TOEFL or PTE exam depending on the institution’s requirements. Each test has a scoring system to test the applicant. It is important that one must go through the official website of the university before taking any exam. 

2. MCAT (Medical College Admission) Exam: MCAT is a computer-based exam which tests your knowledge of biological and physical sciences and your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The exam paper comprises multiple-choice questions to evaluate reasoning, aptitude, and comprehension skills. It is conducted 15 times a year and lasts for 7.5 hours, with a maximum score of 528 and a median score of 500.

3. NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test): Finally, all Indian students are required to clear the NEET examination with qualifying marks to pursue MBBS abroad with a minimum of 50 percentile.

Application Process 

With over 50 medical universities in the USA accepting international applicants, there are ample opportunities available for aspiring doctors. With careful planning and preparation, meeting all the university prerequisites, you can easily embark on a path leading to a fulfilling medical career.

Before moving on to the application process, you must look at the following points which you will have to fulfil.

Academic Prerequisites

Most of the US universities require applicants to have completed the following prerequisite courses or their 12th class certificate with the following subjects:

• Organic Chemistry: 1 year with lab
• General Chemistry: 1 year with lab
• Biology: 1 year with lab
• Physics: 1 year with lab
• English: 1 year

MCAT Exam

Before entering the US to pursue your MBBS studies, the applicant will have to clear the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam which is accepted by all US medical schools. It would be great if the student starts preparing well in advance. 

To get admission to any medical university in the US, all international students apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), a centralised application service. At the time of applying, you will need to submit the following documents:

• Academic transcripts from your post-secondary education institution. 
• MCA Test scores
• Personal Statement
• 3 to 5 Letters of Recommendation

Documents Required

Following are the documents required for pursuing an MBBS in the USA for Indian students:

• Academic transcripts from previous academic schools
• Passport-sized photographs
• Copy of valid passport
• Student visa
• Criminal background check
• Resume
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation
• English Proficiency Test Certificates
• Relevant test scores as required by the university

Also Read: IELTS vs TOEFL: Which One Should You Choose?

Top 3 Cheapest Medical Schools in the US

The cost of attending medical schools in the US can vary for all international students. On average, the tuition fees for international students at public medical schools range from USD 46,602.40 – USD 58,253. Apart from this, several public universities in the USA offer lower tuition rates for international students than private schools, making them more affordable. 

At the time of researching top medical schools in USA, it is essential that one conducts a thorough check by comparing the tuition costs, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities

If you are looking for the cheapest medical schools in the USA, here is the list. 

1. UCSF School of Medicine, California
2. Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
3. NYU Grossman School of Medicine. 

Intake Periods at Medical Universities in USA for Indian Students

Medical universities in the USA typically offer three main intake periods for Indian students:

1. Fall Intake: This is the most common intake period, starting in September.   
2. Spring Intake: This intake period begins in January.
3. Summer Intake: This intake period usually starts in May, but it’s less common than the Fall and Spring intakes.

Also Read: Fall Intake in USA 2025

Scholarships at Medical Universities in USA for Indian Students

Wondering how to afford the high tuition fees of the best medical universities in the USA as an international student? Well, we have got you. Studying in the US can be overwhelming with high expenses such as living expenses, and the financial burden can be a tad bit higher. 

So, to help you out, several medical schools in the US offer international students with scholarships which provide them financial assistance. 

Here is the list of scholarships available at the best medical universities in the USA for Indian students.

Scholarship in USA for International Students	Grant Amount
Johns Hopkins University Scholarships	Limited, merit-based
Harvard Medical School Financial Aid	Covers up to  both tuition and mandatory fees
Stanford University School of Medicine Financial Aid	Varies based on need, not merit- maximum amount -100%
Yale School of Medicine Financial Aid	Varies based on need, INR 8.3L annual loan commitment

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