Health Professions Advising Office
University of Missouri | Honors College | School of Medicine | Contact Us

Early Decision Program (EDP)

The EDP allows you to apply to your first choice medical school prior to the regular admissions process (i.e., EDP candidates may apply to one school only). These applications are acted upon by October 1 of the year preceding expected matriculation. Applicants considered for EDP should have superior qualifications. Medical schools will only review EDP applicants that are considered to be as good as or better than the average matriculating applicant. At most schools, a candidate who does not gain admission through the EDP can be reconsidered through the regular admissions process. An EDP application sends a clear message to the school about the candidate’s preference, a favorable message in the eyes of most schools.

EDP eligibility criteria are subject to annual review; therefore, you should contact the medical school of your choice in late spring or early summer to obtain the latest eligibility information. Qualified candidates who wish to matriculate at MU's School of Medicine are strongly urged to apply to the Early Decision Program. To make sure your file and letters are ready in time to take advantage of this option, you must notify the Health Professions Committee at the Honors College by the second semester of your junior year. EDP candidates must take the MCAT in the Spring and complete the application process by August 1st.