Why You Should Start Medical School in May

Medical schools are notoriously competitive and difficult for many applicants to get into on their first try. But what if there was a way to reduce the competition and enjoy smaller incoming class sizes*? Applying to medical school off-season could give you more flexibility and opportunities than a traditional fall start date. If you're looking to start medical school sooner rather than later, starting in May could be the best fit for you.

​​*Based on January and May incoming classes from 2023-24, as compared to average class sizes for U.S. medical schools. The September cohort was larger than average.​

How Are Classes With a Traditional September Start?

Since this is the most common route, the competition will be tough. Thousands of applicants are vying for a limited number of seats, and those who are accepted can expect each class to be at capacity.

Starting classes in September also means you’ll have to stick to a pretty rigorous academic schedule to stay on top of your coursework and licensing exams. You may feel extra pressure with less scheduling flexibility. When ranking locations to complete your clinical rotation, your classmates will be applying to the same limited number of spots as you, which means there could be even more competition.  

What Are Classes Like if I Start in May?

By starting in May, there are fewer applicants, which means less competition for already limited seats and scholarships. These classes are more likely to be smaller than a traditional fall class, since most prospective students are still completing their application package around this time. Smaller incoming class sizes mean getting to know your classmates better. Starting classes in May also means you can start gaining clinical exposure as early as June.

While most U.S. schools don’t offer a May start, some schools, such as Ross University School of Medicine, do.  

Why wait? Begin your application for Ross Med’s May start.

How Would a May Start Affect My Medical School Timeline?

A May start gives you more flexibility than a traditional September start, since you can begin your medical program almost immediately after finishing your bachelor’s. This almost four-month head start puts you ahead of the incoming September class and can give you more time to prepare for and take the United States Medical Licensing Examination^® (USMLE^®). Rather than competing for slots with the traditional September crowd, you can take Step 1 before they even finish their studies.

With a May start date, rather than returning to the U.S. for clinical rotations mid-year following your medical sciences, like students who start in September would, you could return as early as January. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible to return home and complete your Year 3 core clerkships at local affiliate hospitals.* Since there are only a limited number of guaranteed spots each term, applying off-season could help reduce competition.

Take advantage of the extra time a May start affords by studying for board exams, building your resume, and deciding where you want to apply for residency.

What Does a May Start Mean for My Residency?

Match Day happens on the same date for everyone regardless of whether they chose to start in January, May, or September since residencies typically start around the same time. Despite this, you can apply to residency programs early as well as finish your degree and take USMLE Step 2CK before those who start in September.

Starting in May gives you extra time to study for and take board exams, shadow physicians, or even participate in research projects. These experiences can help enhance your overall profile and make you a more competitive residency applicant.

With your match secured and your Doctor of Medicine (MD) program behind you, you'll have a few months of down time before starting your residency program. This extra time can be a great chance to gain more experience and further pad your resume to stand out from the competition.

What Else Should I Know About a May Start?

A May start can give you more opportunities and flexibility than a traditional September start. With smaller incoming class sizes, you may find it easier to create strong bonds with your instructors and classmates. This can help foster a collaborative support system that can be an invaluable resource for you throughout your studies. Since instructors typically don’t teach as many students in May as they do in the fall, you have a unique opportunity to learn more about their specialization and other researchers in your preferred specialty. This can give you insight into upcoming research projects your instructor or their peers plan on conducting.  

Additionally, you may be able to schedule more time with your advisor or tutor. Extra time with an advisor can help you get a head start on building your resume if you’re planning on applying for a more competitive clinical rotation or residency program. Working with a tutor can help you stay on top of your studies and be as prepared as possible for upcoming quizzes and exams.

Ultimately, a May start can be a different yet incredibly beneficial way to begin your medical studies. It allows you to get a head start on your education and build relationships with faculty members, as well as gain valuable experience in your field. So don’t be afraid of starting medical school in May. It could lead to a successful and fulfilling journey toward becoming a doctor.

*There are a limited number of guaranteed spots available at each site per term, and Ross Med cannot guarantee that all eligible students will be placed at the designated site in their home area. In addition to applying to Ross Med, being accepted, and paying the seat deposit before guaranteed clerkship seats are filled, students must meet all eligibility requirements. Ross Med offers three start dates per year in January, May, and September. New seats will become available for each start. An applicant may have the option to choose a later start if spots have been filled. Retention of a guaranteed clerkship seat requires students to successfully complete the medical sciences curriculum and pass the USMLE Step 1 exam.