AI is Reviewing BS/MD Applications | AAMC Article

Read Time: 5 minutes

New Tool: BS/MD Applicant Evaluation Calculator

Before you continue reading, we recently released a new tool for calculating your BS/MD admissions chances that we encourage you to check out here. Our calculator is built on years of recent BS/MD admissions data to give you an initial applicant evaluation score within minutes. For a more precise evaluation, schedule a free 15-minute session with one of our BS/MD specialists at the end of this email.

Good morning parents and future doctors,

The BS/MD admissions process is changing rapidly as many top medical schools incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into their application reviews, shifting how candidates are evaluated. According to recent news from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), schools like the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and George Washington University School of Medicine are beginning to use AI not just for screening test scores but also for evaluating personal statements and extracurricular activities. This change in the admissions process indicates a shift for BS/MD applicants to adapt their approach for AI screening in addition to human reviewing.

AI’s Role in Application Review

AI systems are being implemented to manage the growing number of applications more efficiently by filtering candidates based on specific criteria. Not only are your GPA and test scores being assessed, but AI is also being used to evaluate the more complex and detailed parts of the application. These newly developed algorithms are assessing sections such as the personal statements and extracurricular activities to identify alignment with the school’s mission.

Baseline Filtering: It is important to ensure that your GPA and standardized test scores meet or exceed the minimum requirements of your target programs. By not meeting these thresholds you will will receive a lower score (interview prediction metric) in the screening process and your application may be filtered out early on in the process.
Language Patterns: AI tools detect language patterns that reflect qualities valued by the school, such as a commitment to underserved communities or an interest in primary care. It’s important to be mindful of how you articulate your experiences.

For example, a student focused on primary care may want to convey this by focusing on specific experiences that demonstrate direct patient interactions, continuity of care, and a holistic approach to medicine. Instead of simply stating an interest, demonstrate this motivation with a narrative that naturally conveys your dedication. So instead of “I want to go into primary care because I enjoy working with patients,” prepare a story that demonstrates this commitment: “During my time shadowing a family physician, I saw how Dr. Doe built lasting relationships with her patients, understanding not just their medical histories but also their personal struggles. When a patient hesitated to manage their diabetes due to financial concerns, she worked with them to find affordable options, ensuring they felt supported beyond the clinic walls. Witnessing this strengthened my desire to pursue primary care, where I can provide continuous, patient-centered care that extends beyond prescriptions and diagnoses.”

Align Your Application with School Priorities

Each BS/MD program has specific missions and values they seek in applicants. These AI models are being developed to assess for alignment and fit with the program, making it important to ensure that your application reflects these priorities.

Research School Missions: You should carefully review the mission statements and values of each program and be sure to identify keywords and themes that you can incorporate and reference in your essays. For example, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine’s mission revolves around working together in spirit of collaboration and service. When writing essays for this program, you should include examples of extracurriculars where you were able to collaborate with peers to complete something meaningful. This could include working on a research project, organizing a community health initiative, or leading a team in a volunteer setting.
Reflect on Relevant Experiences: By verbalizing your experiences that align with the school’s core values, your essay will be evaluated as showing applicant-program fit. If a program prioritizes community service, highlight your involvement and impact in those areas.
Use Specific Language: You should reflect the school’s values in your writing, but avoid overloading your application with buzzwords. AI analyzes context and semantics, so staying authentic is crucial.

AI-Evaluated Essays

Your personal statement and supplemental essays are components of your BS/MD application that AI may evaluate semantically to predict your motivations and values.

Demonstrate Core Qualities: Rather than just listing your attributes, demonstrate them with compelling stories and reflections. Sharing your qualities through stories helps AI tools to better understand the depth and significance of your experiences.
Structure and Clarity: It is important to write clear, well-structured essays with a strong hook and a cohesive flow. Avoid writing overly complex sentences and instead focus on concise, impactful language that effectively conveys your experiences and motivations.
Demonstrate Your Unique Contributions: You should expand on what sets you apart by discussing your unique projects or perspectives that align with the school’s core focus areas. By directly connecting your individual contributions to the values and priorities of the school, you demonstrate not only your commitment to their mission but also how you can offer a fresh and valuable perspective. This approach helps you build a narrative that goes beyond conventional qualifications, making your application memorable and meaningful.

Authenticity in Your Application

While it’s important to align with the school’s priorities, maintaining authenticity is equally essential. AI systems are being developed to detect disingenuous statements and overuse of keywords.

Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Don’t force keywords into your essays unnaturally. AI evaluates the overall context, so instead, focus on crafting a compelling narrative by sharing specific experiences and detailed reflections so that your writing comes across more personal.
Genuine Reflections: You should share sincere insights and avoid writing what you think the AI wants to hear. Rather than simply stating “I am passionate about serving underserved communities,” describe a moment that shaped your commitment, such as a meaningful patient interaction or a volunteer experience that changed your perspective.
Provide Specific Examples: Use detailed anecdotes to support your claims. You want to verbalize the specific impacts you had on others and articulate the motivations and takeaways that came from these experiences.

Extracurricular Descriptions

AI may analyze extracurricular activities for evidence of your interests and commitments. The suggestions below follow the guidance we have provided students who consistently receive multiple BS/MD acceptances.

Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and specific outcomes where possible. For example, “Organized a fundraiser with a 10-member team that collected over 1,000 books for 12+ local schools and 500+ students.”
Leadership and Impact: You should verbalize any roles where you made significant contributions or held leadership positions, especially those that align with the school’s values. For example, if the school values leadership, you could describe your role in a leadership position and discuss the specific actions you took, the impact of your efforts, and how these experiences further impacted you as a leader to demonstrate your alignment with the school’s values.
Use Action-Oriented Verbs: Start descriptions with strong verbs like “spearheaded,” “implemented,” or “advocated” to convey initiative and impact.

Staying Ahead with Professional Guidance

It can be hard to overcome challenges thrown in your way during the application process, but you don’t have to do it alone. Expert advice can help you effectively adjust your strategies for these changing admissions processes.

Customized Application Review: Receive detailed feedback adapted to AI assessment criteria to strengthen every part of your application.
Interview Preparation: While AI impacts application reviews, human interviews remain a critical part of admissions decisions. Prepare thoroughly for both traditional and Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) specific to BS/MD admissions.
Continuous Support: Our team at Outperform BS/MD Coaching provides ongoing live guidance throughout the application process to adapt to any changes promptly, in addition to proven frameworks and methodologies.

The integration of AI into BS/MD admissions is a significant development that demands a strategic and informed approach. By understanding how AI evaluates applications and taking proactive steps to align your materials, you can enhance your chances of securing a spot in a BS/MD program.

For more in-depth insights, read the full blog article here.

Yours in Success,

Rishi Ray

Outperform BS/MD Coaching

Our team at Outperform BS/MD Coaching is dedicated to guiding you through these new challenges. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss strategies personalized to your student’s unique situation.