Frequently Asked Questions
Review answers to common questions about applying to the Foster School of Medicine.
Applicants should also review the admission requirements, application instructions,
admissions process, and current dates before applying.
Admission Requirements
What requirements should I review before applying?
Applicants should review required coursework, testing expectations, citizenship or residency eligibility, and any other current admission requirements before submitting an application.
Where can I find prerequisite course requirements?
Prerequisite course requirements are listed on the Admission Requirements page. Applicants should review the course list carefully and confirm that required coursework is complete or in progress before applying.
Review prerequisite course requirements
Is the MCAT required?
The MCAT is required for admission. Applicants should review current testing expectations
and application-cycle requirements before applying.
Is there a required ratio of out-of-state to in-state students?
Yes. As a Texas state institution, the Foster School of Medicine is required to admit an entering class that is approximately 90% Texas residents, with a limited number of out-of-state seats.
What are the entering class statistics?
Academic and demographic statistics for recent entering classes are available on the Class Profile page.
How long has a medical school been in El Paso?
The Texas Tech School of Medicine was established in 1969 for the West Texas region,
and El Paso has hosted a regional campus since 1973. The Foster School of Medicine
at El Paso matriculated its first class in July 2009.
Application Process
How do I apply to the Foster School of Medicine?
Applicants apply through the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service, known as TMDSAS. Applicants must also complete the Foster School of Medicine secondary application and submit all required materials by the published deadlines.
Where can I find application deadlines?
Current application dates and deadlines are listed on the Dates and Events page. Applicants should also review TMDSAS deadlines and official communications from the Office of Admissions.
View application dates and deadlines
What happens after I submit my application?
Completed applications are reviewed as part of the admissions process. Selected applicants may be invited to interview, and interviewed applicants are reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
Learn about the admissions process
Do you accept transfer students?
The Foster School of Medicine considers transfer applicants for advanced standing into the third year only when space is available, and only from applicants enrolled in good standing at an LCME-accredited medical school. The school does not consider applications for transfer to the second year.
Interviews and Decisions
How are applicants selected for interviews?
Interview invitations are based on review of completed application materials and the admissions process for the current application cycle.
How will I receive admissions updates?
Applicants should monitor the email address used for their application and respond to admissions communications by the stated deadlines.
Where can I learn about admissions decisions?
Applicants should review the Admissions Process page for information about application review, interviews, committee review, and admissions decisions.
Tuition, Fees, and Expenses
Where can I find estimated cost information?
Estimated tuition, fees, and projected expenses are listed on the Tuition, Fees, and Projected Expenses page. Costs may change by academic year.
Review tuition, fees, and projected expenses
Where can I find scholarship information?
Applicants may review pathway and scholarship program information, including military scholarship information and other admissions-related opportunities.
Review pathway and scholarship programs
Do you offer scholarships?
Yes. The Foster School of Medicine offers a number of competitive academic scholarships, awarded based on merit as determined by the Scholarship Committee. Many do not require a separate application and are awarded prior to matriculation; they are renewable for up to four years contingent on successful advancement to the next year of medical studies.
Applicant Support
Can I request pre-med advising?
The Office of Admissions offers pre-med advising appointments for prospective applicants.
Contact admissions about pre-med advising
Who should I contact with admissions questions?
Contact the Office of Admissions with questions about requirements, application materials, deadlines, or the admissions process.
Next Steps
Use these resources to prepare for application deadlines and upcoming admissions events.
How to Apply
Review application steps, required materials, and submission instructions.
Admission Requirements
Review required coursework, testing expectations, and applicant eligibility.
Admissions Process
Learn how applications are reviewed, how interviews work, and how admissions decisions are made.
Contact Admissions
Contact the Office of Admissions with questions about deadlines, events, or accommodations.