Selection Criteria

Applicant Pool

All applicants must submit a primary application via American Medical College Application Services (AMCAS) in compliance with deadlines and policies.

Each year, the School of Medicine receives over 10,000 applications. Once the secondary application is completed, files are reviewed for consideration for interview.  Less than 10% of students are selected for an interview.

The personal attributes of applicants that are considered during the admission process include: 

• adaptability 
• capacity for improvement 
• capacity to think critically 
• communication skills 
• demonstration of teamwork 
• ethical behavior 
• reliability and dependability 
• resilience 
• service orientation 

Our medical school employs a holistic review process to evaluate each applicant comprehensively. This approach ensures that we consider a wide range of factors beyond academic metrics alone, including personal attributes, life experiences, and a demonstrated commitment to service. By assessing each candidate’s unique strengths and potential comprehensively, we strive to select a diverse and compassionate group of future physicians who reflect our mission to serve and improve healthcare for all communities. 

The list of personal attributes was originally developed based on reports from the AAMC Innovation Lab Working Group and Admissions Initiative and a publication about holistic review (New Eng J Med 2013; 368:1565-67). In 2014, the list was reviewed with an external consultant and discussions were held with the Admission Committee about whether the list aligned with the missions of CUSOM.

Non-Discrimination Statement (Tab)

In-accordance with the non-discrimination policy at the University of Colorado and the School of Medicine, the admissions office strictly prohibits any discrimination based upon age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, veteran status, or physical ability in the admissions and enrollment process.

Office of Admissions Contact Information 

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