how long do md phd programs take

Is an MD-PhD Right for Me?

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Do you want the opportunity to train in both medicine and research? An MD-PhD allows you to do just that. But what does it mean to become a physician scientist? We asked AAMC experts to explain why you might want to consider this type of training.

As you prepare to apply to medical school, it’s valuable to explore other potential career paths beyond a traditional MD degree. One path to consider is an MD-PhD degree, which provides training in both medicine and research.

But how do you know if it’s the right career path for you? We asked AAMC experts to explain the advantages of training to be a physician scientist through an MD-PhD program.  

Who are physician scientists? Physician scientists are focused on scientific discovery and patient care at the intersection of science and medicine, understanding human health and disease from a scientific and clinical perspective. Physician scientists have the unique ability to identify and study important questions in health care. There are four pathways to become a physician scientist:

• Complete MD training and then conduct extended research through fellowship training.
• Complete MD training and then return to graduate school to earn a PhD degree.
• Complete PhD training and then enter medical school to earn an MD degree.
• Work towards both degrees simultaneously in a dual MD-PhD degree program.

In each pathway, students are exposed to a career in scientific research while also treating patients in a clinical setting.

What are MD-PhD Programs? MD-PhD programs provide training for the dual degree by integrating research and clinical training experiences where students learn to conduct hypothesis driven research in a mentored environment. There are over 100 MD-PhD programs affiliated with U.S. medical schools, and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences partially supports approximately 45 programs, known as Medical Scientist Training Programs (MSTPs). 

These programs provide unique training experiences, including MD-PhD specific courses and professional development workshops, visiting scholar seminars, retreats, opportunities to attend national conferences and join organizations, and mentoring for graduate and residency training. The students and mentors in these programs are a vibrant community, working to advance the trainees’ development as a scientist and physician. 

How long does training take?

The MD-PhD career path is a commitment, as training to complete both MD and PhD degrees takes about 7 or 8 years.

How do I pay for a MD-PhD program?

Most programs offer financial support, including stipends, tuition waivers, and health insurance to help students cover the cost of their scientific and medical training.

Who are MD-PhD students?

Annually, an estimated 600 students matriculate into MD-PhD programs. This is only about 3% of all students who matriculate into medical school. PhD training for MD-PhD students is typically in biomedical sciences, such as molecular, cellular, or human or animal studies in biochemistry, cell biology and microbiology, immunology and genetics, neuroscience, pharmacology, and physiology. However, PhD training may also be in fields outside of the classical biomedical sciences, such as bioengineering, chemical biology, bioinformatics, public health, anthropology, and bioethics. 

What do MD-PhDs do after graduation?

Most MD-PhD graduates train in a residency program and become licensed to practice in a specific field of medicine. From there, they typically go on to careers that blend research and clinical medicine, though their research topic may or may not be closely related to their field of medical practice. Most MD-PhDs work in academic medical centers, such as medical schools or teaching hospitals. MD-PhDs also conduct research in institutes such as the National Institutes of Health or other government or private agencies, or work for pharma or biotech companies.

MD-PhD careers provide unique perspectives on questions about basic scientific discovery, medical intervention, or translational research. During their career, MD-PhDs may remain focused as a basic or clinical scientist, or become an administrative leader within their academic medical center. Their training provides opportunities to be successful in either environment. 

Is an MD-PhD path right for you? To find out more, visit the AAMC website for information on MD-PhD dual degree training . 

• @AAMCpremed

Helpful tools and information regarding medical MD-PhD programs.

Information about applying to MD-PhD programs, emphasizing the application process during COVID-19.

Information about MD-PhD programs, emphasizing the career and application process.

Learn about MD-PhD Programs from program leaders.

Upcoming short presentations will describe features of MD-PhD training, alumni careers, and detailed logistics of the application process.

Emily battled viral encephalitis for years during college, and now as a MD/PhD student, she reminds premeds that it's okay to ask for help.

Cesar couldn't apply to medical school when he first graduated from college due to his undocumented status. Now he's in a MD-PhD program and hopes to practice in the Southwest where there's a high need for Spanish-speaking physicians.

MSTP MD-PhD Program

Frequently asked questions.

• Program Structure

How long does it take to complete both degrees?

The average length of time before graduation is 7.5 years; generally students will take 6 years or 8 years depending on the nature of their graduate research. Students generally complete and defend their PhD thesis before completing their clinical rotations in the last 1 – 2 years.

Can I do one degree before the other?

As above, nearly all students will complete their PhD requirements 1 – 2 years before their MD requirements. An important advantage of combined degree training is the breadth that the first 1 – 2 years of medical school provides for graduate research.  Students must pass part I of the National Board Medical Licensing Examination before commencing full-time laboratory research. Occasionally circumstances will arise when an individual student's training is best served by deviating from this "traditional" plan; these situations require approval and monitoring by the graduate advisor and the MSTP Directors.

How will I be supported during my training?

Stanford MSTP students are fully supported through the entire program, tuition, health insurance and stipend, by a combination of funds from a National Institute of Health training grant, individual graduate programs, and School of Medicine funds.

Are there laboratory rotations?

One of the ways in which we try to make the total time of training less than the sum normally taken to complete MD and PhD degrees is by encouraging MSTP students to choose a potential thesis advisor without a yearlong set of rotations through different laboratories. During the first year of the program, students meet with departmental chairs and research faculty and participate in research seminars and group meetings, so that the summer following the first year can be spent working full-time in a laboratory whose goals, approaches, and personnel are already familiar. In most cases, MSTP students choose this laboratory as the place to carry out their thesis research.

Can I get advanced placement credit for graduate coursework?

MSTP students fulfill the same curricular requirements as "straight MD" and "straight PhD" students. Some PhD Programs may permit substitution of previous graduate course work (or MD courses) for their PhD requirements; this is individual to the program and the student.

Are MSTP students required to complete the MD Scholarly Concentration (SC) program?

The MSTP is a combined effort between the MD program and the PhD programs. All trainees are required to fulfill all requirements for both the MD and PhD degrees. The single exception is the MD program requirement for a Scholarly Concentration. For dual degree MD-PhD students, the PhD substitutes for this requirement.

Will I have special opportunities as an MSTP student?

Yes! In addition to individual regular advising meetings with the Program Directors, we hold seminars, courses, and lunches with guest speakers, covering important topics of professional development and translational medicine.  The MSTP community also meets annually for the MSTP Scientific Conference, to present research, and to share clinical experiences, advice and above all support.

Will I have special responsibilities as an MSTP student?

Of course! Besides the challenge of balancing graduate and medical training, we ask all MSTP students to play an integral role in the recruitment, education, and evaluation of incoming MSTP applicants.

Graduate Programs

Can I get a PhD outside the Medical School?

Yes.  One of the unique aspects of the Stanford MSTP is its close affiliation with departments in other Schools, including Engineering (Bioengineering, Chemical, Computer Science, Electrical) and Humanities and Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics).

Can I get a PhD in a clinical department?

The PhD must be conferred by a degree-granting department or program, and most clinical departments do not grant PhD degrees. However, most scientists in clinical departments either have joint appointments with basic science departments or are members of interdepartmental programs such as Cancer Biology, Neurosciences, or Immunology, and the only restriction regarding thesis advisors is that they must be members of the Academic Council.

Can I apply to the MSTP and get a PhD in a social science?

If you are a current Stanford MD student and have previously been admitted to a social science PhD program, you may apply to the MSTP for funding.  Admitted PhD candidates may apply through the MSTP internal admissions process.

Are there teaching requirements?

The MSTP itself has no specific teaching requirements, but some PhD programs do.

How will my training differ from other "straight PhD" students?

The short answer is, "It won't." PhD training for MSTP students is just as rigorous and intensive as for students outside the MSTP. However, MSTP students don't spend their first year rotating through different laboratories, and most MSTP students complete their preclinical medical school curriculum before starting full-time laboratory research.

• Admissions Process

How many applicants do you interview and admit?

On average, we invite about 60 students for interviews or about 1 in 9 of those students who submit a secondary application. About 8 - 10 students begin the MSTP every year.

Can I apply to the MSTP after starting medical school?

Yes! One of the unique aspects of the Stanford School of Medicine is its strong emphasis on research, and the MSTP invites current Stanford medical students in their preclinical years, who have made a commitment and contribution to a research-based career, to submit an application for the MSTP.  We refer to this as the “internal” application process . Typically, the MSTP admits 1 – 2 internal applicants every year.

Is there an early decision program?

No. We think making a decision about combined medical school and graduate training is challenging enough! Finding a program that best matches an individual student's interests and goals is facilitated by visiting several universities and meeting with a variety of potential research advisors.

How do I find out about the status of my application?

Just ask (we don't mind).

Can I schedule my interview for a different day?

There are 5 – 6 interview days per season; once invited, interviews are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.  We will try to accommodate requests for other dates if necessary.

I don't know whether to apply for Med School or MSTP?

You should only apply to the MSTP if you are committed to a career in biomedical research; such a commitment should be based, in part, on previous sustained and productive research experience as an undergraduate. If you're not sure, consider working full-time in a laboratory after undergraduate school before deciding whether an MSTP is right for you, or, alternatively, starting as a "straight MD" student, participating in a research project in your 2nd or 3rd year, and possibly applying to the MSTP as an internal applicant (see above).

What does the MSTP Admissions Committee look for?

Besides qualification for admission to the medical school itself, the single most important component of an MSTP application is a previous sustained and productive research experience.

When can I expect to hear about the outcome of my application and/or interview?

Interview season is October – February; interview invitations will be issued 3 – 6 weeks before the scheduled interview date. MSTP admission decisions are made on a modified rolling basis.

Are MSTP applicants considered independently for medical school admission?

The MSTP Admissions Committee is separate from, but closely integrated with, the Medical School Admissions Committee.  All applicants to the MSTP are also considered for MD-only admission.  If you are not chosen for an MSTP interview, your application is automatically routed for MD-only consideration.  If you are chosen for an MSTP interview, you will also be required to participate in the MD admission interview process.  These interviews will be scheduled the day before, or day after, your MSTP interviews.  If you are not offered admission to the MSTP, you will be considered for MD-only admission.

• Student Life

Can I afford to live in Palo Alto?

Housing costs in the Bay Area are more than other cities. However, every new graduate student is guaranteed housing on campus or at University associated off-campus sites.  Almost anyone can afford to live comfortably as a Stanford graduate student solely on stipend support.

Will the program pay for health insurance? What about the rest of my family?

We consider health insurance an essential component of all graduate training programs. The program covers the entire cost for individual students and offers a mechanism for subsidizing dependents.

Isn't there more to do in San Francisco than in Palo Alto?

It depends whether you would rather watch street vendors in Union Square or go hiking in the Los Altos foothills. Seriously, downtown San Francisco is a short train ride away from Stanford, but the two environments offer different (and complementary) experiences. Downtown Palo Alto doesn't have skyscrapers but it does have a thriving economy, a diverse population, and an environment that attracts many students to stay here for postgraduate training and career opportunities. Come see for yourself!

• Graduate Program

• Administrators
• MD-PhD Program Interview Committee
• MSTP Faculty
• MSTP Faculty by Discipline
• Current Students
• MD-PhD Advisory Committee
• Student Council
• Students Perspectives on, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity at Yale (SPIDEY)
• Peer Advising by Senior Students (PASS)
• Mentoring and Peer Advice from Recent Trainees (MPART)
• Faculty Mentoring
• Career Development
• Useful Links
• Parental Support and Relief
• MD-PhD House System
• Important Dates & Deadlines
• Application Process
• Financial Support
• Life at Yale
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Who we are: Goals & Committees
• What We Do: Current D&I Initiatives
• Resources for Support
• Resources for Self-Education
• Yale BioMed Amgen Scholars Program

MD-PhD Timeline

• Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR)
• Clinical Activities
• Research Activities
• Leadership & Research Management Certificate
• Annual Program Retreat
• Perspectives of Women in Science Lectures
• Grant-writing workshops
• Teaching Requirements & Opportunities
• Thriving in the Training Environment
• Where To Go For Help
• Physician-Scientist Specialty Shadowing Opportunities
• 2019 Newsletters
• 2020 Newsletters
• 2021 Newsletters
• 2022 Newsletters
• Residency Matches
• Student Publications
• PhDs Conferred
• Fellowships Awarded

INFORMATION FOR

• Residents & Fellows
• Researchers

Years 1 and 2

Year 3 and 4 through phd defense.

During the summer following their 6 months of Integrated Clinical Clerkships, MD-PhD students study for and take USMLE Step I. There is also time to complete an additional research rotation, if necessary, and to take a vacation. The Step 1 exam must be taken by December 31 of Year 3. Students meet with their Director of Graduate Studies to formally affiliate with a PhD department and research laboratory at the start of Year 3 and complete program or department-specific coursework, teaching and qualifying examination requirements in Years 3 and 4. A thesis prospectus is submitted in Year 3 or 4, which coincides with participation in the MD-PhD Program’s Grant Writing Workshop to prepare NIH NRSA F30/F31 and other private foundation applications. Students are required to submit a first author paper and successfully write, defend and submit their PhD dissertation before returning to the wards in October or January of their penultimate year of training.

There is a strong emphasis on maintaining engagement in clinical activities during the PhD thesis years of the MD-PhD training. Clinical activity during research years is an explicit part of the IDP review process, and thesis advisors are informed that this is an encouraged training activity for dual-degree candidates. Most students participate in one or more longitudinal clinical experiences (LCEs) or the student-run “Wednesday Evening Clinic” (WEC) for which they receive elective credit. A student-organized monthly Clinical Reasoning Seminar employs a clinical case-based approach to review diagnosis, pathology and treatment/management with a clinical faculty expert. In addition to maintaining clinical fluency, customized LCEs allow students to explore clinical (sub)specialties related to their research work and interests and are precepted by physician-scientists whenever possible. These experiences allow students to gain a richer understanding of possible career paths for physician-scientists and expose them to the advantages and challenges of combining research with clinical care. Strategies to manage wellness and resilience in a physician-scientist career are discussed during annual program retreats and recurring Brown Bag lunch discussions, while a Curriculum in Leadership and Research Management for Physician-Scientists provides ongoing career development training and experiential learning to MD-PhD students.

Re-entry and Final Year

Md-phd timeline.

Is an MD/PhD Program Right for You?

MD-PhD programs may be right for you if you are interested in a career path that melds both clinical practice and in-depth scientific research. MD-PhD graduates aren’t simply doctors; they are “physician-scientists” or “medical scientists.”

MD-PhD programs offer a dual-degree track that combines the clinical training of a standard MD degree with the added coursework of a PhD. The PhD training is particularly rigorous and includes classes usually in the realm of biomedical sciences, as well as advanced research training, lab rotations, and intensive investigative work.

The payoff for choosing an MD-PhD program is that these clinical medicine graduates are equipped to treat patients while also participating in the discovery and development of innovative healthcare solutions. 

Here are a few reasons you might want to pursue an MD/PhD career:

• You want to participate in cutting-edge medical research.
• You want career options beyond clinical medical practice.
• You want to help train future generations of medical doctors.
• You want more collaborative research opportunities with colleagues.
• You want funding opportunities only available to MD/PhD students.

The Difference Between MD & MD/PhD

The difference between MD and MD-PhD is that graduates with an MD-PhD receive PhD training and hold a PhD degree in addition to their MD degree.

The cost of an MD-PhD program varies widely depending on the institution. Still, the stipend and tuition-free training make many of these programs significantly less financially burdensome compared to standalone MD or PhD programs.

MD/PhD students will complete graduate school and medical school qualified to hold positions in academic medicine and biomedical research (in addition to being qualified to practice clinical medicine. 

What Is an MD?

A medical doctor has earned a standard medical degree or MD and is skilled to practice clinical medicine. Medical students must complete 4 years of medical school to earn their degree, followed by 3-7 years of residency and fellowship training to practice medicine.

What Is a PhD?

PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy in reference to their critical knowledge and research experience in a particular field of study. A PhD is the highest possible academic degree.

Earning a PhD is often considered harder than earning an MD due to the scientific research required to stimulate original thought and develop quality hypotheses.

How Competitive Are MD/PhD Programs?

Physician-scientist programs are slightly more selective and competitive than the average medical program.

Between 2018 and 2023, a little more than one-third of students who applied to an MD/PhD program (37.7%) were accepted. The acceptance rate for medical school applicants in general was 41.2% for the 2022-23 application cycle.

The test scores of these programs also indicate how much more competitive these programs are. The average MCAT score of MD/PhD matriculants in the 2022-23 cycle was 516.2, and their mean GPA was 3.82. In comparison, medical school matriculants overall had an average MCAT score of 511.9 and average GPA of 3.75 during the same cycle.

How Long Are MD/PhD Programs?

The MD-PhD dual degree takes approximately 7-8 years of coursework to complete, followed by an additional 3-7 years of residency to be eligible to practice medicine. 

Generally, MD coursework is emphasized in years 1-2, followed by research training in years 3-5, and ending with medical training and clinicals in years 6-8. 

Requirements for MD/PhD Applicants

If you are considering applying to an MD/PhD program , know that having strong essays and letters is more important than incrementally higher MCAT test scores and GPAs. Numbers get your foot in the door; storytelling gets you a seat at the table. 

In general, the requirements for MD/PhD applicants include:

• MCAT score in the 90th percentile: Specific MCAT requirements for MD/PhD programs vary by school. However, in general, most students have the best chance at success with an MCAT score in the 90th percentile or higher. In the 2022-23 application cycle, MD/PhD applicants had an average MCAT score of 511.3, while matriculants averaged 516.2.
• GPA of 3.7 or higher: Like MCAT scores, the GPA requirements for MD/PhD programs differ by program. But your chances are highest with an average GPA of at least 3.7. In the 2022-23 application cycle, MD/PhD applicants averaged a science GPA of 3.61 and overall GPA of 3.68, while matriculants averaged a 3.78 science GPA and 3.82 overall.
• Compelling personal statement: Your personal statement essay should explain why you want to become a physician and is required for both MD & MD/PhD applications . All prospective doctors must write a personal statement that stands out, and this is doubly true for MD/PhD applicants.
• 2 additional essays: You’ll write one essay conveying your personal interest in pursuing an MD/PhD dual degree specifically, and one essay covering your substantive experiences in the field of research . These may include multiple summer projects, senior thesis research, or 1+ years of post-undergrad research programs and activities.
• 2-3 letters from research mentors who can praise your scientific potential.
• 1-2 letters from clinical mentors who know your aptitude for patient care.
• 1 letter from the premed committee.
• 1 letter from a mentor who can discuss your leadership skills and personal traits in an extracurricular setting.

Questions to Ask Yourself When Considering an MD/PhD Program

By answering these questions, you can choose the graduate program that is the best fit for you over the next 8 years.

• What skills do you want to develop? Choose a program that has ample opportunities to explore your field of interest and in which you can identify potential mentors for rotations and thesis projects.
• What is your preferred MD/PhD program size? Choose a smaller program of MD-PhD students if you prefer hands-on guidance with individualized attention and a larger program if you prefer a larger community with more networking opportunities. 
• Where do you want to live for 8 years of medical school ? Choose a location that fits your needs for cost of living, housing, transportation, extracurriculars, as well as opportunities for fun and making friends. 
• Does the program offer financial aid? Choose a program that meets your financial needs in the form of stipends and tuition waivers. It’s important to note that if you drop out of an MD-PhD program, some schools require you to pay back the investment that the school made in you. 
• Will you fit into the school’s culture? Choose a program after you’ve visited the campus, talked with the current students and faculty, and asked about opportunities in your field of interest as well as other’s experiences at the school and living in the city.
• Does the MD/PhD Program align with your timeline? Choose a program with coursework that allows you to graduate in your preferred timeline, which could be sooner or longer than eight years.

Possible Career Paths for MD/PhD Graduates

A career choice often depends on an individual’s specific interests, such as which medical specialties they are drawn to, whether they prefer working with patients or in a laboratory, and how they want to contribute to advancing medical science.

The salary range for MD/PhD graduates varies significantly by position and type of work. Policy analysts’ starting salary is around $57,000 per year, while attending physicians who do research can make upwards of $500,000.

Below are careers someone with an MD-PhD might pursue:

Attending Physician with Research Responsibilities

An MD/PhD holder in this position would have a traditional medical role seeing and treating patients, but they might also have dedicated time for research. This role allows one to continue practicing medicine while contributing to academic or clinical research. 

Individuals in this role often split their time among patient care, research activities, and instructional duties. Typically, they are found in educational hospitals or medical schools.

Physicians’ salaries can vary significantly based on specialty and experience, but generally, they are well-compensated. An attending physician in a specialized field can expect to earn upwards of $200,000 to $500,000 or more, especially if they have dual responsibilities that include research.

Translational Medicine Specialist

These specialists work at the intersection of basic research and patient care, focusing on turning research insights into practical medical applications. 

This role may exist within academia, industry, or clinical settings and is tailored for those who understand both the clinical and research aspects of medicine.

The salary for this role can also vary based on industry, location, and level of experience but would likely fall in the range of $150,000 to $250,000 or more.

Biomedical Researcher

Those with MD-PhD qualifications commonly secure jobs as researchers within biomedical science. Employment settings can range from academic institutions and drug companies to governmental agencies like the NIH.

Salaries for biomedical researchers typically fall somewhere between $85,000 and $104,000 per year.

Clinical Research Director

These are medical doctors responsible for overseeing clinical trials and research projects, usually within a hospital, academic institution, or pharmaceutical/biotech company. This role leverages both the clinical insights from an MD and the research methodology of a PhD.

Salaries can vary widely depending on the setting (academia, private industry, etc.) and geographic location. In general, a Clinical Research Director could expect to earn a six-figure salary, often ranging from around $150,000 to $250,000 or more per year.

Pharmaceutical/Biotech Industry Professional

A significant number of MD-PhDs join the pharmaceutical or biotech sectors. Responsibilities might include roles in the development of new medications, overseeing clinical trials, regulatory compliance, or managing medical affairs.

The average salary for this position will likely differ quite a bit depending on the exact role and company, but the average is generally between $125,000 and $133,00 per year.

Medical Director

In this capacity, a person is in charge of the medical elements of a healthcare facility or a specific department within a hospital. The role usually calls for expertise in both medical practice and research.

This position is likely to be one of the most lucrative of the MD/PhD field, with an average salary from $319,000 to $329,000 per year.

Science Policy Analyst/Advisor

Individuals in this role often find themselves in governmental or nonprofit settings, where they influence policy decisions related to scientific research and healthcare.

The typical salary for a science policy analyst starts at around $57,000 per year. Advisors have a slightly higher upper salary range and may make as much as $75,000.

Public Health Official

Some MD-PhDs opt for roles in the public sector where they focus on health concerns at a societal level. They may be employed by organizations such as the CDC or WHO.

In many cases, public health officials can expect to make a yearly salary of between $101,000 and $111,000.

Medical Science Liaison

This role typically serves as an intermediary between pharmaceutical enterprises and medical professionals. These liaisons disseminate information about new treatments and scientific advancements to doctors, researchers, and other medical stakeholders.

This role also typically commands a six-figure salary, usually ranging from approximately $100,000 to $200,000, depending on experience, location, and the hiring organization.

Medical Educator

Professors teach medical students, residents, and fellows in an academic setting while also conducting research. These doctors often have clinical responsibilities as well. An MD/PhD is especially well-suited for this role due to the dual focus on clinical care and research.

They may teach various medical subjects like pharmacology or genetics and actively participate in the educational goals of their institutions.

In academia, salaries can vary widely based on rank (Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Full Professor), institution, and geographic location. Salaries may range from $100,000 to well over $200,000 for senior roles or those at prestigious institutions.

Best MD/PhD Programs in the US

There are 122 different American Universities that offer MD/PhD degree programs, according to the AAMC list of MD-PhD Programs by State . A further 13 Canadian programs also use the AMCAS application system.

Some MD-PhD programs in the United States are funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP). This means that students receive full tuition remission, health insurance, and a living stipend throughout their training.

Medical schools with fully funded MD-PhD programs :

• Dartmouth University, Geisel School of Medicine
• Duke University School of Medicine
• Harvard/M.I.T MD-PhD Program, Harvard Medical School
• John Hopkins University School of Medicine
• Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science
• University of Florida College of Medicine
• University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine
• University of Southern California (USC), Keck School of Medicine
• Yale University School of Medicine

Medical schools with the most MD-PhD spots historically: 

• Raymond and Ruth Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
• University of Illinois College of Medicine
• Weill Cornell Medical College
• Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
• Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
• Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University
• University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine
• University of Michigan Medical School
• Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons 
• University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
• Harvard Medical School
• Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
• Northwestern University The Feinberg School of Medicine
• Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
• University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine
• Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
• Ohio State University College of Medicine
• University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
• New York University School of Medicine
• Stanford University School of Medicine
• Yale School of Medicine

Medical schools with MD/PhD programs that accept international students:

• Emory University School of Medicine
• Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine
• University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
• University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine/California Institute of Technology
• University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
• Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

The MD/PhD Application Process

The application process for MD-PhD programs is similar to that of typical MD programs. The two major differences are that you’ll designate yourself as an MD/PhD candidate on the AMCAS application, and you’ll submit 2 additional essays on that primary.

The Application Timeline

• AMCAS (submit by end of May): You’ll fill out a primary application through AMCAS in the spring of the first year of your application cycle (e.g., to matriculate in fall 2026, you’ll submit AMCAS in spring 2025). AMCAS opens at the end of May each year. Aim to submit the primary application no later than the end of June, as early applications are more likely to be reviewed and accepted.
• Secondaries (submit by end of August): You’ll respond to secondary applications in the summer after your primary application is reviewed by each school you submitted it to. Each program sends secondary applications to students who generally meet their minimum requirements.
• Interviews (October-March): You’ll then attend interviews as invited between October and March. Some schools won’t contact you at all to reject your application; others will offer conflicting invites. You must prioritize your options and prepare for the opportunities that do come. 
• Final decisions (December-March): Final decisions are made by schools between December and March. Schools with a rolling admissions cycle (most of them) accept students after completing interviews and determining a student is a fit. A smaller number of programs wait to send acceptances until after all interviews are complete.
• Choose your program (March-April): Students choose where to matriculate between March and April.
• Programs start (June-August): Programs begin between June and August, depending on the school.

How to Prepare for an MD/PhD interview

You should prepare for your MD/PhD interview by practicing mock interviews to rid yourself of the jitters and fine-tune your responses in various scenarios. In addition to developing your personal narrative, you must be able to explain your research training at multiple levels.  

If you’re interested in participating in a mock interview with a physician who has served on an admissions committee, consider a mock interview with MedSchoolCoach .

What to Do if You Get Waitlisted

Finding out that you’ve been waitlisted for the MD/PhD program of your dreams is never a good feeling. However, you are not helpless in the wait. It’s a good idea to remain in contact with program leaders and administrators by sending a Letter of Intent or a Letter of Interest.

Listen: An MD/PHD’s Journey to Medicine [PODCAST]  

What is a Letter of Intent vs. a Letter of Interest? 

A Letter of Intent is a formal statement that you would commit to matriculating into a program if you are accepted. A Letter of Interest conveys that you are strongly interested in the program, but it does not indicate any commitment or explicitly state that a program is your first choice.

Both letters should summarize why you believe the program and school are a great fit for your interests and how you will be able to uniquely contribute to the school, in under one page.

Finding Out You’ve Been Accepted!

The day you receive that phone call or email — the one from the MD-PhD program director contacting you to say you have officially been offered acceptance into their program — provides a feeling of joy worth being patient for!

Our Physician Advisors can support you through the application process for your best shot at getting into the school of your choice.

What specialties can MD/PhD graduates earn their PhD in?  

PhD students commonly choose to specialize in topics such as:

• Cell Biology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering

What is the salary range for an MD/PhD graduate? 

MD/PhD graduates can expect an average annual salary of about $100K, depending on the type of work and place of employment.

What is the difference between a PhD and a Postdoctorate? 

A Postdoctoral Fellowship is a temporary period of mentorship and research training for graduates with doctoral degrees, offered by the National Institutes of Health, to acquire skills needed for a chosen career. A PhD thesis must be successfully defended, whereas a postdoc is a non-defendable temporary employment assignment from an organization such as a university.

Can an MD/PhD be a doctor? 

Graduates who earn an MD/PhD are fully qualified doctors and may practice medicine in a clinical setting upon completing their residency training.

Can an MD/PhD graduate be a surgeon? 

While an MD/PhD graduate CAN be a surgeon if they choose surgery specialties in their residency programs, a surgical resident is not required to obtain a PhD in addition to their MD.

Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with MedSchoolCoach to learn how we can help boost your chances of success getting into medical school .

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Enter your email to unlock an extra $50 off any mcat program, by submitting my email address. i certify that i am 13 years of age or older, agree to recieve marketing email messages from the princeton review, and agree to terms of use., tips for applying to md-phd programs.

If you can’t imagine a medical career without helping patients and participating in research, you’ve probably considered the MD-PhD track. Learn all about applying to MD-PhD programs and get our expert tips for strengthening your application.

Is an MD-PhD Program right for you?

The MD-PhD is a dual doctorate degree program for students who are interested in careers as “physician-scientists." By graduation, you’ll have fulfilled requirements for both the MD and PhD degrees. The MD-PhD takes about 8 years to complete during which you receive medical training AND become an expert in a specific research field. The program also requires dissertation research in your field of graduate study, which can range from biomedical laboratory disciplines like biochemistry or genetics to fields like economics, sociology, or anthropology . After graduation, MD-PhD students usually work as researchers or as faculty members at medical schools and universities.

Learn more about MD combined degree programs .

What are Medical Scientist Training Programs?

Medical Scientist Training Programs (MSTP) are MD-PhD programs that are funded by the National Institute of Health. Students who are admitted to these highly-competitive programs receive full tuition coverage, living expenses, and a stipend. There are currently 45  NIH-funded MSTP programs .

Are all MD-PhD programs free?

Over 60 medical and osteopathic medical schools  maintain their own MD-PhD or DO-PhD programs that are not funded by the NIH. Depending on the school, these programs offer full or partial financial support for their students.

Applying to MD-PhD Programs

Nearly all MD-PhD programs use the same application process as MD admissions—via the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) application . One key difference? MD-PhD applicants submit two additional essays: the MD-PhD Essay and the Significant Research Experience Essay:

• The MD-PhD Essay asks you to explain your reasons for pursuing the combined degree program.
• The  Significant Research Experience Essay asks you to describe your key research experiences, including your research supervisor's name and affiliation, the duration of the experience, the nature of the problem studied, and your contributions to the project.

Read More: Guide to Your Med School Applications

Do you need to take the GRE Test to apply for the Md-Phd Program?

Programs have different policies, so some schools may require both the MCAT and the GRE for combined degree applicants. For example, an MD-Phd in Anthropology at one school may require the GRE, while the MD-PhD in Immunology may not. Check with your prospective med schools to make sure you’re covered.

Timeline for MD-PhD Admissions

The MD-PHD application timeline is virtually the same as for MD admissions. (Remember you are using the same application service!) Here are the important dates for MD-PHD admissions:

• Early May: AMCAS opens and begins accepting transcripts
• Early June:  AMCAS begins accepting application submissions
• October–March: MD-PhD applicant interviews
• December–March: Admissions decisions sent to applicants
• March–April: Md-PhD applicants make their final decisions
• June–August: MD-PHD programs begin!

Tips for Boosting Your Md-Phd Application

Competition for MD-PhD applicants is fierce. After all, you have to convince medical schools to invest significant time and financial resources in you. Of the total 1,936 MD-PhD applicants in 2016–17, only 649 matriculated in a U.S. med school. Here’s what you can do to strengthen your overall application.

1. You need strong MCAT scores and a high GPA

If your grades and scores aren’t where they need to be, address it before you apply!  Check out these admissions stats for MD-PhD matriculants to U.S. medical schools from 2016-2017:

SOURCE:  Association of American Medical Colleges

Make a smart MCAT prep plan and retake the exam if necessary. Consider completing additional grad school work to raise your GPA and take advantage of our online tutors for pre-med requirements!

2. You need sustained research background + a clear picture of your future in research

3. you need the right recommenders.

Most letters of recommendation should come for your research mentors, professors who run the labs you work in, and the postdoctoral fellows you work with. Make sure your recommenders know that you are applying to MD-PhD programs as this will affect the letters they write.

Want to get an edge over the crowd?

Our admissions experts know what it takes it get into med school. Get the customized strategy and guidance you need to help achieve your goals.

Med School Admission Counseling

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• Frequently Asked Questions

Sidebar Application

MSPP funding applications will open July 8, 2024. GPP applications for fall 2025 admission will open August 2024

Are you starting medical or clinical school this year?

If yes , you are a Track 2 applicant

If no , please answer the next question.

Are you planning to attend medical school BEFORE you begin PhD research?

If yes , you are a Track 1 applicant

• Basic Eligibility Requirements
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What does it mean to have an MD/PhD? MD/PhD programs provide training in both medicine and research for students who want to become a physician-scientist. MD/PhD graduates often go on to become faculty members at medical schools, universities and research institutes such as the NIH. MD/PhD trainees are prepared for careers in which they will spend most of their time doing research, not just taking care of patients. It is a challenging career that offers opportunities to benefit many people by advancing knowledge or health and illness, developing new diagnostics and treatments for diseases, and inventing new technologies for clinical application.  What is the difference between MD/PhD and MSTP? Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) indicates that an MD/PhD program has been awarded a training grant (T32) from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences that financially supports trainees in the program. There are currently about 46 MSTPs.  Non-MSTP MD/PhD programs also provide environments where students receive outstanding dual-degree training.       What is MSTP funding? MSTP funding comes from the National Institute of General Medical Science T32 training grant.  This grant is used to financially support trainees in MSTPs. How do I know if my school accepts MSTP funding? A list of schools that have MSTPs can be found  here . How do I know if I qualify for MSTP funding? The only requirement to qualify for MSTP funding is that trainees must be citizens or noncitizen nationals of the United States or have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence (i.e., possess an alien registration receipt card I-151 or I-551).  Your individual medical school’s MSTP determines any other requirements.  Are there opportunities for international students? There are MD/PhD opportunities available around the country for international students, but at this time, the NIH MD/PhD Partnership Training Program funding is only available if you are a US citizen or permanent resident and admitted to a U.S. medical school or MSTP.

What’s the benefit of getting my PhD with the NIH? The National Institutes of Health is the largest biomedical research facility in the world. Scholars who are accepted to one of the graduate programs at the NIH are able to take advantage of its amazing facilities and technologies. The NIH is comprised of 27 different Institutes and Centers, each with its own specific research agenda; this promotes an engaging and diverse research environment with lots of room for interdisciplinary collaboration. To learn about the NIH and its many resources, please visit  www.nih.gov/about/  or contact the administration with any specific questions. Do I select which track I am on? No. Your track is based on your current educational status. Please visit the “How to Apply” page to determine your track. Do I have to do my PhD with the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program? It is not a requirement of the NIH MD/PhD Partnership Training that you participate in the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program; however, Track 1 candidates are automatically granted a place in the OxCam Program when they are awarded a slot in the MD/PhD Partnership Training Program. The OxCam Program is also the only program within the NIH GPP that has a deferral process in place to enable students to complete the first years of medical school. Visit our page on the  GPP  to learn more about other Institutional or Individual Partnerships. What’s an Individual Partnership? An Individual Partnership is a partnership with a program or university that does not already have an existing agreement with the NIH through the GPP. These partnerships are arranged through the GPP and are based on the specific needs of an individual student. For more information, contact the GPP. Will I be getting clinical experience during my PhD? There is no formal requirement that you get clinical experience during the PhD phase of your training. However, you may get involved with Clinical Grand Rounds and other didactic sessions, bedside teaching rounds and other clinical training opportunities, and clinical research protocol activities at the NIH and partnering institutions. How much time will I spend away from medical school? The time it takes to complete the PhD portion of your training depends on the graduate program in which you participate. NIH OxCam Scholars are expected to complete their PhD in about four years. How much time will I spend at the NIH? Approximately half of your PhD thesis research must be completed at the NIH. NIH OxCam Scholars will spend approximately two years at the NIH and two years at either the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge. When do I select my PhD mentor? You select you mentor after you are officially admitted to the program. If you are a Track 1 student, you will select a mentor at the NIH before beginning medical school; Track 2 students select their mentors during the time frame determined by their graduate program.

Are there GPA/MCAT cut-offs? The NIH MD/PhD Partnership Training Program is highly competitive, but there are no hard and fast cut-offs for grades or test scores; however, acceptance into the NIH MD/PhD Partnership Training Program and receipt of extramural MSTP funding is pending acceptance to a qualifying MSTP program at a participating medical school.  This means that applicants to the NIH MD/PhD Partnership Training Program must meet the minimum acceptance requirements of the programs to which they are applying.