A Guide to Writing a Letter of Intent for Medical School

Letter of Intent For Medical School

When talking about the application and admission process for med schools, medical school letters of intent play a big part. They allow you to demonstrate your eagerness to be admitted to a particular medical program. 

Having a compelling, well-written medical school letter of intent can help you convince the admissions committee to extend an offer of admission to you.

This article explains what a medical school letter of intent is, its purpose, how to write one, what to leave out, and some of the things to keep in mind when preparing your own letter. 

What Is A Letter Of Intent For Medical School?

A letter of intent for medical school is a formal document that expresses a prospective student’s interest in applying to medical school. It is typically submitted as part of the application process and serves as an opportunity for the applicant to convey their motivation for pursuing a career in medicine, as well as highlight their relevant academic and personal achievements. 

The letter of intent is an important part of the application process as it allows the admissions committee to get to know the applicant beyond their academic transcripts and test scores. It also helps the applicant stand out from other candidates and can increase their chances of being admitted to the medical school program.

Because a letter of intent is often a brief, one-page document, as Princeton University remarked, you must carefully choose what information to provide.

What To Include In A Letter Of Intent For Medical School?

Here are some things to include in a letter of intent for medical school:

  • Introduction: Start your letter by introducing yourself and the program you are applying to.
  • Motivation: Explain why you are interested in pursuing a career in medicine. Share your personal experiences and challenges that inspired you to become a doctor.
  • Academic achievements: Highlight your academic achievements, including your GPA, relevant coursework, and any research or clinical experience you have.
  • Extracurricular activities: Discuss your extracurricular activities, such as volunteer work, internships, or leadership roles in student organizations. Explain how these activities have prepared you for a career in medicine.
  • Goals: Outline your short-term and long-term career goals, and explain how the medical school program will help you achieve them.
  • Fit: Explain why you believe the medical school program is a good fit for you. Discuss any unique features of the program that align with your interests and career goals.
  • Conclusion: End your letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the program and your gratitude for the admissions committee’s consideration.

Things To Note When Writing A Letter Of Intent For Medical School

When writing a letter of intent for medical school, here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Follow the guidelines: Be sure to read and follow the guidelines provided by the medical school or program. These guidelines may include specific formatting, length requirements, or prompts.
  • Be specific and concrete: Use specific examples to illustrate your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Avoid general statements or cliches.
  • Highlight your unique qualities: Emphasize your unique qualities, experiences, or perspectives that will contribute to the diversity and culture of the medical school program.
  • Explain any weaknesses or gaps: Address any weaknesses or gaps in your academic or personal history, such as a low GPA or time off from school. Explain how you have overcome these challenges or how they have helped you grow.
  • Avoid repetition: Avoid repeating information that is already included in other parts of your application, such as your resume or transcripts.
  • Proofread and edit: Review your letter multiple times to ensure it is well-written, clear, and error-free. Ask someone else to read it as well.
  • Be honest and authentic: Write in your own voice and be true to yourself. Admissions committees want to get to know you as a person, not just as a set of credentials.

By keeping these things in mind, you can write a compelling letter of intent that demonstrates your qualifications, goals, and passion for a career in medicine.

Things To Avoid When Writing A Letter Of Intent For Medical School

When writing a letter of intent for medical school, here are some things to avoid:

  • Don’t exaggerate or embellish: Be honest and truthful about your accomplishments, skills, and experiences. Avoid exaggerating or embellishing to make yourself appear more impressive.
  • Don’t be too general: Use specific examples and details to illustrate your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Avoid making general statements or using cliches.
  • Don’t focus too much on personal stories: While personal stories can be effective in conveying your motivation and passion for medicine, be careful not to focus too much on your own story at the expense of discussing your qualifications and fit for the medical school program.
  • Don’t be negative or critical: Avoid being negative or critical about others, including previous academic institutions, professors, or classmates.
  • Don’t submit a letter with errors: Proofread your letter multiple times and ask someone else to read it as well. Avoid submitting a letter with spelling or grammatical errors.
  • Don’t repeat information: Avoid repeating information that is already included in other parts of your application, such as your resume or transcripts.

Samples and Templates

Here are some examples of letter of intent for medical school:

Sample 1

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the medical school program at [insert name of school]. As an aspiring physician, I am passionate about the opportunity to pursue a career in medicine and to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients.

My interest in medicine stems from a variety of experiences, both personal and academic. Growing up, I witnessed the impact of chronic illness on my own family members and was inspired by the dedication of their healthcare providers. In college, I pursued a degree in biology and was fascinated by the complexity of the human body and the mechanisms underlying disease.

Throughout my academic career, I have worked hard to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in medical school. I have maintained a high GPA and have completed coursework in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. In addition, I have gained valuable research experience through internships at [insert name of institution] and have participated in clinical experiences through volunteering at [insert name of organization].

Beyond my academic achievements, I am committed to serving others and have engaged in a variety of extracurricular activities that have prepared me for a career in medicine. For example, I have served as a mentor for underprivileged youth in my community and have volunteered at a free clinic that provides care to uninsured patients.

Looking forward, I am excited about the opportunity to continue my education at [insert name of school] and to contribute to the vibrant medical community there. I am particularly drawn to the school’s focus on [insert name of program or initiative] and believe that this aligns well with my own interests and goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and passion for medicine in an interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample 2

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the medical school program at [insert name of school]. As a lifelong learner and a dedicated student, I am eager to pursue a career in medicine and to contribute to the field in meaningful ways.

My journey towards medicine has been shaped by a variety of experiences, both personal and academic. As a child, I was fascinated by the workings of the human body and the mysteries of disease. As I grew older, I became increasingly aware of the health disparities that exist in our society and the need for compassionate, culturally competent healthcare providers.

In college, I pursued a degree in biochemistry and was fortunate to have the opportunity to conduct research in a laboratory studying the molecular mechanisms of disease. This experience deepened my understanding of the complexities of medicine and inspired me to pursue a career in clinical medicine.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have engaged in a variety of extracurricular activities that have prepared me for a career in medicine. For example, I have volunteered at a local hospital and have shadowed physicians in a variety of specialties. These experiences have allowed me to witness the daily challenges and rewards of a career in medicine and have reinforced my passion for the field.

Looking forward, I am excited about the opportunity to continue my education at [insert name of school] and to contribute to the vibrant medical community there. I am particularly drawn to the school’s commitment to [insert name of program or initiative] and believe that this aligns well with my own interests and goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and passion for medicine in an interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Key Takeaways

  • A letter of intent for medical school is a formal document that expresses a prospective student’s interest in applying to medical school.
  • The letter of intent is an important part of the application process as it allows the admissions committee to get to know the applicant beyond their academic transcripts and test scores.