Discover a different kind of medical school education. Go beyond traditional clinical training, study the science underlying medicine, and engage in a meaningful research experience.
Learn how to apply below, or explore the program further.
Who should apply?
HST thrives when it reflects the community it serves. We encourage students from groups historically underrepresented in STEMM, students with non-traditional academic backgrounds, and students from academic institutions that have not previously sent many students to Harvard and MIT to apply.
What should I know before I apply?
The HST MD Admissions Subcommittee recommends a broad undergraduate educational experience. Typically, half of our students have majored in biological sciences and half in physical sciences or engineering.
The HST MD curriculum requires that you be comfortable with mathematics and computational methods, biochemistry, and molecular biology. This is usually demonstrated through upper-level course work, but other approaches may satisfy these requirements. In addition, one year of physics must be taken at the college level. Candidates are strongly encouraged to meet this prerequisite with at least one year in calculus-based physics. Detailed information on the HST MD course prerequisites can be found here: https://meded.hms.harvard.edu/admissions-prerequisite-courses
How can I strengthen my application?
Most successful candidates have completed at least six months of research, have demonstrated a commitment to serving others, and show evidence of leadership and passionate involvement in extracurricular activities. We particularly value research experience with evidence of independent, intellectual, and practical contributions.
What about Harvard Medical School’s requirements?
All admissions requirements for Harvard Medical School must be completed prior to matriculation in HST.
A few things to keep in mind.
You may apply to the HST MD program, the Pathways MD program, or both. Applying to both programs will not negatively affect your chances of acceptance. At this time, you can also apply to the Harvard/MIT MD-PhD Medical Scientist Training Program. How to Apply
1. Submit Your AMCAS Application
Fill out the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) application
2. Submit Your Secondary Application
You’ll be invited to complete a secondary application to Harvard Medical School once your completed AMCAS application is processed. Your secondary application must include an essay explaining why you plan a career devoted to medical science and how HST's curriculum supports your career goals.
Have questions?
We’re here to help:
- Visit the MD Admissions FAQ
- hstadmissions [at] hms.harvard.edu (Email the HST MD Admissions Team).