How to Become a Doctor

It takes years of hard work to become a doctor. You will have many sleepless nights and you may wonder if it is worth all of the effort. For those who make it, medicine is a profession that provides great satisfaction, not to mention a healthy pay check.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Good MCAT scores
• High GPA

1. Go to college. Although you do not have to major in a specific subject, you do need to take courses such as organic chemistry and biology.

2. Take the Medical College Admissions Test or MCAT. Your MCAT scores will be important in getting into medical school.

3. Research the medical schools that interest you. Check on their requirements, size and location as well as the average GPA and MCAT scores of their students.

4. Apply to medical school using the American Medical College Application Service. Apply on line at their website. Complete the application on time.

5. Prepare for your interview. Think about why you want to attend medical school and what you would like to do in medicine.

6. Attend medical school and work hard. You will complete classroom and hospital work as well as take medical board exams.

7. Decide what type of doctor you would like to be. Apply to residency programs in the specialty of your choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Start the application process early. The competition is very stiff. Most applicants apply to around 10 medical schools.

• Your residency program will last anywhere from 3 to 7 years depending on what specialty you choose.

• Do not miss any deadlines. The deadlines vary by school but most fall in October through December.