Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to apply to all three participating schools?

No.  You need only apply to RWJMS via AMCAS, indicate your interest in MD/PhD.

How does it work with 3 schools participating?

All students will receive their MD from RWJMS. All required MD/PhD courses are completed while in the M1 and M2 years. The PhD phase is completed under the direction of a mentor, and the primary affiliation of the mentor determines the school and the graduate program from which the student will receive their PhD. The RWJMS graduate programs are joint with Rutgers, and a joint degree is awarded from both schools.  MD/PhD program functions such as monthly meeting, clinical exposure in the PhD phase, the social events as well as the MD/PhD symposium keep students in contact with one another throughout the program.

If I apply to the MD/PhD program, how does this affect my application to the MD program?

While the MD and MD/PhD admissions committees work to assure a single interview date, acceptance to the MD/PhD program is determined by the two committees in a coordinated manner.  You must be accepted into the MD program to be accepted into the MD/PhD program.  Students who are not selected for an MD/PhD interview are deferred to the MD-only applicant pool. 

What is unique about your program?

The RWJMS/Rutgers/Princeton MD/PhD program is a collaboration between 3 strong institutions that each bring unique resources to the program while building upon historic and recent collaborations between the institutions.  The 3 schools offer a wide range of options for the PhD and a vibrant, interdisciplinary and interactive environment.  Additionally, physician scientist training is a major focus at RWJMS, and thus students in the MD phases also interact with colleagues with strong research interests.

Can I really apply to do my PhD in a non-traditional area?

YES!  While our students frequently seek graduate study in the classic biomedical disciplines, we welcome students with interests and backgrounds in engineering, policy, chemistry, computer science, and other areas.  The large number of graduate programs, especially at Rutgers, gives students many options for the PhD.  Students interested in pursuing a degree in a non-biomedical sciences program should contact the program director for specific instructions on any additional application materials that may be required for these programs.  As an example, the PhD in Anthropology at Rutgers will accept applications for MD PhD studies.

Is a rotation mandatory before the M1 year?

No, while we strongly encourage this option, it is not required. The MD/PhD stipend will initiate when the rotation begins.

When do interviews occur?

Students are invited for interviews in the fall.  The MD and MD/PhD interviews are held on the same day. In most cases, students arrive on Thursday afternoon and are hosted at a local hotel. Dinner is provided along with the opportunity to visit the New Brunswick campus.  On Friday students meet with our program director Dr. James Millonig, program coordinator Perry Dominguez, and Associate Dean of Admissions for RWJMS Dr. Carol Terregino.  Along with formal interviews, you will also have opportunities to meet with our students and get information on the program. 

We will announce MD/PhD interview dates for the 2013 application season here as soon as they are set.

An interview is required for admissions consideration; thus, applicants who are invited for interview but are unable to attend scheduled interview dates must contact the program to schedule an alternate interview date. 

Do I need to take the GRE or MCAT?

All students are required to take the MCAT, however, the GRE is not required for applicants planning to pursue a PhD in the biomedical sciences.  Please note that non-biomedical sciences applicants MAY be required to take the GRE and should contact the appropriate program director.  Students who participate in RWJMS programs that waive the MCAT requirement (e.g. BA/MD) are still required to take the MCAT to apply to the MD/PhD program.

Do you accept out of state applications?

We recognise the importance of geographic and scientific diversity. Out-of-state applicants with outstanding credentials are encouraged to apply.

Do you accept early decision applications for the MD/PhD program?

No.  You CAN apply early decision to RWJMS using the MD/PhD application via AMCAS. However, only the MD portion of your application will go through the early decision process at RWJMS. The MD/PhD process is separate, as indicated above, and the MD/PhD program will assess your application with all other MD/PhD applicants.

Can I apply for the MD/PhD program after I have matriculated at RWJMS?

Yes, we allow students to apply after matriculation.  Applicants will add the MD/PhD Motivation and Significant Research Experience sections of the AMCAS application to their MD application by submitting these components directly to the RWJMS program. In addition, letters of recommendation can be added if sent directly to the MD/PhD program. Contact Perry Dominguez for specific instructions on submission of these items.