As you go through the medical school application process, it's important to be aware of the "traffic rules" governing how you handle acceptances from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM). These rules ensure fairness for all applicants.
For AAMC schools:
February 22, 2024: The Choose Your Medical School Tool opens, allowing you to indicate your current preference, though this is non-binding.
April 15, 2024: Narrow your acceptances down to 3 schools max, withdrawing from any others. You can remain on waitlists.
April 30, 2024: Select one remaining school, indicating either:
"Plan to Enroll" if you want to stay on other waitlists
"Commit to Enroll" if this is your final choice - withdrawing you from all other schools
Key dates may vary slightly year-to-year, and individual schools can set earlier deadlines, so stay informed.
After initially receiving an acceptance, you can hold multiple acceptances until the April deadlines, continuing to interview and remaining on waitlists. However, you must narrow down promptly and withdraw from schools you won't attend to allow others a fair chance.
The AACOM traffic rules differ slightly, so review both sets of guidance. Managing acceptances properly demonstrates ethics and professionalism essential for future physicians. Follow the traffic rules closely as you finalize your medical school decision.