A simple, structured roadmap from Premed → MCAT → MD/DO → Residency → Fellowship.
Here’s what the full journey looks like—no fluff, just the essentials.
4 years • Any major accepted Must complete core science prerequisites.
Taken after prereqs (usually junior year). Strong scores required for MD/DO admissions.
4 years total: • Years 1–2: Science & labs • Years 3–4: Clinical rotations
3–7+ years depending on specialty: Family (3) • Surgery (5–7) • Neurosurg (7+)
1–3 years for subspecialties: Cardiology, Oncology, NICU, Critical Care, etc.
Required to practice independently in your chosen specialty.
USMLE or COMLEX exams determine your ability to practice medicine.
Hospitalist • Primary Care • Specialist • Academic Medicine • Research • Leadership
Primary Care: $180k–$240k
Emergency Medicine: $260k–$350k
Anesthesiology: $300k–$450k
General Surgery: $300k–$400k
Dermatology: $350k–$550k
Neurosurgery: $600k–$900k+
Schools known for strong academics, research, and residency placement.
For high-achieving students with financial need.
Full tuition + monthly stipend (Army, Navy, Air Force).
Tuition support for students serving underserved communities.
Supports underrepresented students entering medicine.
Both are fully licensed physicians. MD is more research-focused; DO emphasizes holistic care.
No. Any major is accepted as long as prerequisites are completed.
Highly competitive — strong GPA, MCAT scores, and clinical experience required.