Biology to MD: How to Prepare for Medical School with a Biology Degree in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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How to Prepare for Medical School with a Biology Degree in 2025

Want a biology degree that doesn’t sit on a shelf collecting dust? It’s not enough to just major in BIOL—med schools expect you to build breadth, clinical experience, and strategic planning. A smart biology major lays a solid framework with lab skills, critical thinking, and adaptability, but you must also absorb prerequisites like physics and organic chemistry, ace the MCAT, get clinically immersed, and craft your narrative to stand out. 

Along the way, you’ll see why biology isn’t just about becoming a doctor—it also opens doors to other high-paying careers in biology and gives you fallback options if med school doesn’t pan out.

1. Secure All Med School Prerequisites Early

Start by mapping out the required coursework—think organic and general chemistry, physics, and biology with labs, plus social sciences and math if your school demands it. These courses not only prep you for the MCAT, but also give bones to your application. If you delay, you risk cramming—or worse, taking winter summer terms. Stick to a semester-by-semester plan and consult with a pre-med advisor to avoid prerequisites bottlenecks.

2. Build Strong Clinical Exposure and Shadowing Hours

Classroom acuity is pointless without real-world grit. Get to work—literally. Shadow physicians, volunteer in clinics, EMT ride-alongs, or assist in hospital admin. These experiences show that healthcare isn’t a spectator sport. Plus, they test your resilience and professionalism, two intangible attributes that can sway interviewers when numbers fall flat.

3. Prepare Strategically for the MCAT

Your biology background covers a big chunk of the MCAT, but don’t get cocky—the exam leans heavily on chemistry, physics, psychology, and critical analysis. Start prep at least six to nine months before your test date. Use official AAMC resources, full-length practice exams, and structured review plans. Consistency beats cramming. Treat the MCAT like a part-time job: 10–15 hours weekly of deliberate practice. Remember, a competitive MCAT score can offset a slightly weaker GPA.

4. Gain Research and Academic Enrichment

Biology majors have natural access to lab work—take advantage. Whether it’s molecular genetics, neuroscience, or public health, research experience signals curiosity and persistence. It’s not required for every med school, but competitive programs expect it. Aim to co-author, present, or at least get your name on a poster. Even if you never pipette again, research proves you can push through the grind of long projects, troubleshoot failures, and think critically about evidence.

5. Strengthen Non-Clinical and Leadership Experience

Med schools don’t want lab robots. They want people who can lead, mentor, and empathize. Join student organizations, lead a service project, or volunteer outside of healthcare—like tutoring, food banks, or crisis hotlines. These experiences showcase maturity, cultural competence, and adaptability. Leadership also helps you stand out in interviews, where schools test whether you can work in teams and handle responsibility under pressure. A well-rounded resume is often the tiebreaker between two equally qualified applicants.

Is biology actually the best pre-med major, or does my major not matter?

Science textbooks want you to believe biology is the gold standard—but it’s not a golden ticket. Biology remains the most common pre‑med path, with 58% of medical school matriculants reporting a biological sciences major. But that doesn’t make it best. Acceptance rates for biology majors hover around 43.4%, on par with physical sciences (around 49.5%) and humanities (about 51.8%). 

The real secret? Medical schools care more about completing prerequisites, GPA, MCAT, and meaningful experiences than the name of your major.

If you are drawn to psychology, fields like psych‑bio, neuro, or even types of majors in psychology can be excellent pre‑med foundations—especially since med schools increasingly value diverse perspectives. 

What matters is that you tick all core requirements and perform well across science and non‑science domains. A humanities major with solid BCPM (biology, chemistry, physics, math) grades can be just as competitive.

As the following chart shows, biological sciences dominate the list of majors among medical school matriculants, far outpacing other fields like physical sciences and social sciences. While biology is the most common path, the data reinforce that students from a variety of majors successfully enter medical school.

What med school prerequisites do I need beyond my biology courses?

Your biology degree gives you a foundation, but medical schools don’t stop at “you took BIOL 101.” They expect you to check off a robust set of science, math, and writing requirements before they’ll even glance at your application. Think of it as the “how to become a biologist” roadmap: versatile, deliberate, and designed to build real academic muscle.

Here’s what almost every U.S. medical school typically requires:

• General Biology (with lab): Reinforces core concepts in cell biology, genetics, and physiology.
• General Chemistry (with lab): Covers foundational chemical principles like molecular structure and reactions
• Organic Chemistry (with lab): Introduces carbon-based compound structures and reactions
• Biochemistry: Often integrated or separate, focusing on metabolic pathways and molecular biology
• Physics (with lab): Typically one year; many schools prefer or require calculus-based physics
• Mathematics (Calculus or Statistics): Essential for data analysis and MCAT preparation
• English or Writing-Intensive Courses: Ensures you can communicate clearly and professionally, especially under stress
• Behavioral or Social Sciences (e.g., Psychology or Sociology): Shows you understand human behavior and context, critical for patient care

These aren’t mere suggestions—they’re your entry barriers into med school. Skimp on them, and your application could end up in the black hole, regardless of how stellar your biology grades are.

What GPA and MCAT score should I aim for to be competitive?

To make your application stick rather than sink, aim high—but don’t kill yourself trying for perfection.

On average, matriculants hit a 3.77–3.84 GPA, depending on the source, with 3.84 reported in the 2024–25 cycle for LCME-accredited MD schools. The latest cycle’s average MCAT score is right around 513. That puts you solidly in the sweet spot—but that’s just the average. If your GPA is a tick lower, you can compensate by excelling on the MCAT right up to the high 510s or beyond.

These numbers matter because they’re early indicators of whether you can handle medical school’s academic rigor. Strong GPA and MCAT scores don’t guarantee admission, but weak ones can shut the door before your extracurriculars or essays ever get noticed. Think of them as the baseline threshold for staying competitive in a pool where tens of thousands of applicants are chasing limited seats.

It’s worth remembering that students from very different academic tracks—from engineering to even a degree for working with animals—have successfully met these thresholds. The GPA/MCAT benchmarks are universal signals of readiness, regardless of your major.

The image below highlights just how competitive the numbers are—showing the average GPA, MCAT score, and even tuition costs for medical school. These figures serve as benchmarks, reminding applicants of the academic strength and financial commitment required to secure a seat.

How do I get clinical experience, and how many shadowing hours do I need for med school?

Observation without insight is just time wasted. If you want your application to show sense and depth, you need real, meaningful clinical exposure—but quality beats patron hours any day.

Here are proven ways to immerse yourself in clinical settings effectively:

• Physician shadowing: Observe doctors in action, ideally across 2–4 specialties.
• Medical scribing: Be in the thick of patient documentation and care discussions.
• Volunteering in clinics or hospitals: Hands-on interaction, even if non-clinical.
• EMT or CNA work: Actively caring for patients under supervision.
• Internships or externships in healthcare settings: Broader exposure to medical operations.

Why does this matter? Most schools expect to see at least 100–120 shadowing hours to show you're not applying on a whim. Less than 50 hours? You’ll look thin. More than 120? Not a game-changer unless you can reflect deeply on your experience. A solid spread of experience paired with thoughtful reflections—NOT just hours logged—is what moves the needle.

Meanwhile, your biology major isn’t a one-way street. Building real-world context is non-negotiable, even if you're looking at alternative paths like an accelerated online biochemistry degree as flexibility or fallback.

Do I need research as a biology major to get into med school?

Research experience isn’t strictly required for medical school, but it can be a significant advantage, especially for top programs or MD/PhD tracks. Admissions committees view research as proof you can think critically, handle setbacks, and contribute to evidence-based medicine. A biology major gives you easier access to labs, which means skipping research can look like a missed opportunity.

That said, not all applicants must have publications. What matters most is whether your research experience sharpened your problem-solving and persistence. Presenting a poster, co-authoring a paper, or even just working on a long-term project demonstrates resilience and curiosity. Schools want to see that you can wrestle with complex problems and communicate findings clearly. 

Applicants often compare their experience to other healthcare training paths. For example, asking “what degree does a CNA need?” highlights how every healthcare role has different academic expectations. For medical school, research adds extra weight but isn’t an official requirement—unlike the clearly defined prerequisites for allied health careers.

If research doesn’t excite you, prioritize strong clinical and leadership experience instead—but recognize that at research-heavy institutions, it may be the tie-breaker.

How should I study for the MCAT with a biology background in 2025?

Biology gives you a head start on the MCAT, but don’t let it fool you into neglecting other sections. The exam heavily tests chemistry, psychology, physics, and data interpretation. To score competitively, you need a balanced strategy that maximizes your strengths and patches your blind spots. Many students coming from best biological science degree programs make the mistake of over-relying on biology review, when in fact the biggest gains come from mastering non-biology content.

Here are practical ways to prepare:

• Full-length practice exams: Build stamina and identify weak sections.
• Spaced repetition flashcards (e.g., Anki): Reinforce facts in biochemistry, psych, and soc.
• Cross-disciplinary study blocks: Pair biology review with chemistry or CARS practice.
• Official AAMC resources: Benchmark progress with materials that reflect actual exam style.
• Consistent weekly schedule: 10–15 hours per week over 6–9 months beats last-minute cramming.

Approach the MCAT like a marathon, not a sprint. With methodical prep, your biology degree becomes an asset, not a trap.

Should I take a gap year before applying to med school?

A gap year isn’t mandatory, but for many applicants, it’s a strategic choice. Roughly 50% of med school matriculants now take at least one year off after undergrad, and the reasons are practical. Some students need more time to strengthen their GPA or retake the MCAT. Others use it to gain deeper clinical exposure, research experience, or financial stability before diving into the heavy demands of med school.

The decision comes down to readiness. If your stats, experiences, and personal statement feel polished, there’s no reason to delay. But if you know your application has gaps, a well-used year can turn weaknesses into strengths. Use the time intentionally—working in healthcare, doing research, serving communities, or even pursuing personal growth. Admissions committees can spot the difference between a purposeful year of growth and just spinning your wheels. A smart gap year can ultimately boost both your candidacy and your confidence.

Some pre-meds even test the waters of related fields. For instance, researching how to get a medical assistant certificate online is a practical way to gain patient-facing experience while strengthening clinical exposure during a gap year. Options like this can also help you earn income while building a stronger med school application.

The chart below illustrates steady growth in U.S. medical school enrollment over the past decade. Total enrollment in 2024–25 reached 99,562 students, a 1.8% increase from 2023–24. This upward trend highlights rising interest in medicine, even as applicants carefully weigh gap year decisions.

How do I pick target schools—MD vs. DO—and build a smart school list?

Choosing where to apply is just as strategic as prepping for the MCAT. The U.S. has 160 MD schools and 42 DO schools, each with unique missions and admissions philosophies. MD programs are more research-focused and often more competitive, while DO schools emphasize holistic care, primary care training, and osteopathic manipulative medicine. Both lead to full physician licensure and residency options, though MD programs tend to dominate the most competitive specialties.

When building your school list, think about these key considerations:

• GPA and MCAT alignment: Target schools where your stats fall within or above their median ranges.
• In-state vs. out-of-state bias: Public schools often prioritize local applicants.
• Mission fit: Look for schools aligned with your goals (primary care vs. research).
• Clinical opportunities: Hospitals, teaching facilities, and patient populations nearby.
• Cost and location: Tuition, living expenses, and quality of life matter for a four-year grind.

A smart school list might look like this if you’re sitting on a 3.7 GPA and 512 MCAT:

1. Reach schools (highly competitive, median GPA/MCAT above yours)

• Johns Hopkins University (MD)
• University of California, San Francisco (MD)
• Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (MD)

2. Target schools (stats close to your own, good mission fit)

• University of Vermont (MD)
• Drexel University (MD)
• Nova Southeastern University (DO)
• Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

3. Safety schools (stats slightly below your profile, higher acceptance odds)

• Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
• Kansas City University (DO)
• Rosalind Franklin University (MD)

This blend ensures you’re stretching toward top-tier programs, staying realistic with mid-tier matches, and safeguarding against rejection with schools that historically accept students with your profile.

Applicants often compare paths the same way nurse practitioners ask, “can an NP prescribe medication?” Both cases show how different routes in healthcare come with distinct privileges, expectations, and outcomes. Understanding MD vs. DO differences upfront will make your school list far more intentional.

The image below reinforces this point by breaking down the total number of U.S. medical schools. With 202 institutions nationwide—160 allopathic (MD) and 42 osteopathic (DO)—it highlights the breadth of options applicants must consider when building a balanced school list.

What extracurriculars, leadership, and non-clinical activities help me get accepted into medical school?

Medical schools want more than lab skills and grades—they want proof you can lead, empathize, and contribute to your community. Non-clinical and leadership activities demonstrate maturity and show how you’ll function as a future physician. Even if you’re pursuing something like the fastest biochemistry degree online, what you do outside class matters just as much.

Here are activities that carry weight:

• Community service: Volunteering at shelters, food banks, or tutoring programs shows compassion and a service mindset.
• Leadership roles: Leading student groups or organizing events highlights responsibility and teamwork.
• Teaching or mentoring: Tutoring peers or coaching younger students signals communication and patience.
• Cultural or advocacy work: Involvement in diversity, equity, or health justice initiatives demonstrates awareness beyond academics.
• Arts, athletics, or creative outlets: Unique pursuits showcase balance and resilience.

Admissions officers view these as markers of character. Combined with clinical exposure, they make your application stand out as human, not just technical.

The chart below reinforces this idea by showing the top skills physicians list on their resumes. Beyond academics, qualities like hospital experience, family medicine, urgent care, and leadership-related skills demonstrate the broader capabilities medical schools value when evaluating future doctors.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Biology to MD Education

Other Things You Should Know About Preparing for Medical School with a Biology Degree

Do medical schools care if I study biology online instead of in person?

Most medical schools accept online coursework, especially since many labs now have virtual equivalents. What matters is accreditation and whether your classes meet prerequisite standards. Online biology programs can even work in your favor, showing adaptability and discipline. Always confirm with target schools to ensure their policies align with your course delivery.

How expensive is it to go from biology undergrad to medical school?

Costs stack quickly. Biology undergrad can average $25,000 to $40,000 per year at public universities and higher at private schools. Medical school itself averages over $60,000 per year in tuition alone. Factoring in living expenses, students can graduate with $200,000+ in debt. Planning early with scholarships, aid, and budgeting is crucial.

How long does it take to become a doctor after a biology degree?

A biology degree takes about four years. Medical school is another four years, followed by residency training that can last three to seven years depending on your specialty. Altogether, you’re looking at 11–15 years of training before practicing independently. The payoff is high, but so is the time investment.

Can I switch to medicine if I start with another science major?

Yes, you can. Many medical students come from chemistry, psychology, or even non-science majors. The key is completing required courses and performing well on the MCAT. Medical schools value diverse backgrounds, so switching isn’t a disadvantage. What matters is demonstrating readiness through academics, clinical experience, and a strong commitment to medicine.