Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Program Admission Requirements

Admission to KCU’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program is competitive and based on several factors that indicate the applicant is a good fit for our mission. These factors include academic success, clinical exposure, research experience, leadership skills and community involvement. 

We actively recruit under-represented minority students and non-traditional students who often offer exceptional potential for becoming outstanding physicians. Grades and MCAT scores are important to us as they are some of the best predictors of success in medical school; however, strong consideration for a secondary application is given to applicants who show the potential to be successful based on the entire application packet. 

MCAT scores are accepted three years prior to entry, i.e., for Fall 2023 entry scores need to be May 2020 or later. For Fall 2023, all scores need to be the new MCAT scores.

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college is required for admission to the College of Osteopathic Medicine. This requirement may be waived for students enrolled in KCU-COM Partner Programs.

Necessary prerequisite undergraduate coursework completed (Must be completed with a C grade or higher)

  • Biological Sciences - 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours)
  • Biochemistry - 3 semester hours (4.5 quarter hours)
  • Chemistry - 13 semester hours (19.5 quarter hours)
  • Physics - 8 semester hours (12 quarter hours)

Experience in the health care field (shadowing, volunteer, work, etc.)

Two letters of recommendation

  • One from a pre-med advisor or committee; may substitute a science faculty member
  • One from a physician (DO or MD)
  • Additional letters may be submitted on your behalf in addition to required letters
  • Letters must be dated within two years of matriculation year (i.e., if starting classes at KCU in August 2023, letters must be dated no earlier than May 2021)

Meet the terms of our Health and Technical Standards

These items are recommended to increase the competitiveness of your application

  • Minimum 80 hours of shadowing a physician
  • Volunteer in a health care related setting
  • Work experience in a health care field (EMT, nurse, etc)
  • Minimum two leadership roles in clubs/community organizations/work experience
  • Involvement with a minimum of four community service organizations
  • Research experience
  • Domestic/international mission trip
  • Commitment of more than two years to an organization/club/job

Admission/Matriculation Forms

Students must meet our minimum health and technical standards for admission.