The most important characteristic of a competitive MD-PhD applicant is their commitment to the physician-scientist pathway. Other qualities we look for are:

• Strong academic performance.  In recent years, the average GPA for matriculating students was 3.90 (range = 3.41-4.0) and the average MCAT score was in the 95th percentile (range = 83-100 percentile). In addition, we look for applicants who take more than just the required science pre-requisites; we seek students who consistently challenge themselves academically.
• Research experience. Students should have participated in at least one significant research experience. This includes, but is not limited to, undergraduate research, a senior/honors thesis, post-bacc research, Masters research, and/or multiple summer research projects. Students should be able to describe their contribution to their project(s) and how their research fits into the larger field.
• Letters of recommentdation. Strong letters from mentors who know you and your potential to become a successful physician-scientist are critical. Letters from research advisors are of particular importance. 
• Publications are not required.