March 21, 2025
Written By
North of New York, in the Bronx, lies one of the city’s most prestigious universities: Albert Einstein College of Medicine, a leader in medical education, research, and patient care, with an advanced system of tuition and fees.
Many aspiring physicians dream of securing their spot at Einstein to build a solid future in medicine. But getting accepted into this institution requires more than just strong grades and academic achievements—it demands a well-crafted application that highlights your experiences, values, and commitment to the field.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to submit a competitive application. From Einstein’s unique curriculum and tuition-free education to GPA and MCAT expectations, as well as letters of recommendation, we’ll walk you through each step of the process.
We’ll cover:
Let’s dive in!
First things first. Before diving into application details or recommendations, we should take a closer look at Einstein’s MD program.
One thing stands out immediately: its determination to anticipate the future of medicine, not just respond to it. Unlike static, traditional medical training, Einstein’s curriculum is continuously reshaped by the Medical Education Council (MEC) to keep pace with the rapidly evolving demands of healthcare.
In line with leading medical institutions across the U.S., from day one, students don’t just study medicine—they engage with it. Einstein’s curriculum combines a strong scientific foundation, patient-centered learning, and early clinical immersion to shape physicians who are not only problem-solvers but also compassionate caregivers.
At first glance, the curriculum seems straightforward. It is structured into three distinct yet interconnected phases, each one designed to ensure that students develop intellectual depth, clinical expertise, and real-world adaptability progressively.
Beyond these structured phases, Einstein ensures that students engage with bigger-picture healthcare challenges. The curriculum is built around the dual concept of Population Health and the Practice of Medicine, a theme that runs throughout the entire program, pushing students to see medicine as shaped by social, economic, and environmental factors.
That’s what the big picture truly means: Einstein’s curriculum goes beyond individual patient care, focusing on patterns of health and disease across entire populations. The goal is to equip future physicians with the knowledge and perspective needed to reduce health disparities and enhance overall well-being.
Finally, every student also completes a scholarly paper based on mentor-guided research, reflecting Einstein’s deep commitment to medical innovation and scientific advancement.
By now, it should be clear that Einstein brings together a forward-thinking approach to medical research with a broad understanding of the larger forces shaping population health.
Whether through pioneering research, advocating for vulnerable populations, or driving innovations in patient care, Einstein graduates enter the field not just as physicians, but as scientists and changemakers.
Your med school application is more than just numbers—it’s about telling a story that proves you belong at Einstein College of Medicine. With our personalized mentorship, you'll craft a standout application and boost your chances of acceptance. Start your journey today!
Before sending in your application, it's important to recognize that the cost of attending medical school extends beyond tuition. Housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses quickly add up, making financial planning essential for any aspiring physician.
While tuition is often the biggest financial hurdle, Albert Einstein College of Medicine stands out as a true game-changer. Thanks to the David S. and Ruth L. Gottesman Scholarship Fund, attending Einstein has taken on a new meaning. In March 2024, Dr. Ruth L. Gottesman made history with the largest donation ever given to a U.S. medical school, ensuring that no MD student at Einstein will ever pay tuition again.
There’s no application, no extra steps—if you’re accepted, your tuition and academic fees are fully covered. The only requirement? Maintain good academic standing and stay focused on your medical training.
But aside from tuition, there are additional costs you should consider:
After tuition and academic fees are covered, the estimated remaining cost of attendance is:
As you can see, institutional scholarships at Einstein fully cover tuition and most academic fees, leaving students responsible for essential living expenses. Additional costs like books, exam fees, and personal expenses should be factored into a student’s budget. Health insurance costs, however, can be waived with proof of comparable coverage.
At Einstein, students don’t have to let finances dictate their futures. You can pursue medicine as you always imagined—without debt holding you back.
Now, let's take a look at the required courses.
One of the first requirements to be eligible for the 2025 entering class is that applicants must have taken the MCAT after April 2021. Since Einstein reviews applications on a rolling basis, those who apply earlier have a greater chance of securing an interview. All materials, including MCAT scores and the secondary application, must be submitted by December 1.
To begin pre-med coursework, students must have completed at least three years toward a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. Additionally, the following required coursework must be completed for a letter grade (unless taken under a Pass/Fail policy in Spring 2020 due to COVID-19):
If you completed your coursework several years ago, keep this in mind: Applicants who earned their undergraduate degree five or more years before applying must demonstrate continued engagement in the sciences through additional coursework or research experience in fields such as genetics, immunology, or neuroscience.
Since research is at the core of Einstein’s program, competitive applicants will have at least one year of laboratory, clinical, or theoretical research, gained through:
Einstein also requires students to meet technical standards that ensure they can handle the intellectual, physical, and professional demands of both medical and research training. Upon acceptance, each student must confirm their ability to fulfill these expectations. If accommodations are needed, the Office of Student Affairs will review requests individually to determine if adjustments can be made while maintaining the program’s rigorous standards.
Beyond grades and research hours, Einstein seeks curious thinkers and problem-solvers—students ready to push the boundaries of medicine through innovation and discovery. The MSTP (Medical Scientist Training Program) is an opportunity to train in an environment that values both science and patient care, preparing future physician-scientists to drive the next breakthroughs in medicine.
Admissions at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have always been competitive, but the announcement of its tuition-free model led many to believe applications would surge, making admission nearly impossible.
Although the number of applications in the 2024-2025 cycle didn’t surge considerably, Einstein’s acceptance rate still declined, reflecting its increasing selectivity:
Einstein continues to attract students with strong academic backgrounds:
That said, Einstein’s admissions philosophy differs from other institutions like NYU. While NYU’s free tuition model led to an increase in applicants with MCAT scores of 527+, Einstein has reaffirmed its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
The shift to tuition-free education now means that students from lower-income backgrounds, who might have previously opted for in-state public medical schools due to cost, see Einstein as a real option. Many within the student body and administration are working to ensure that admissions continue to prioritize a diverse range of applicants, particularly those committed to serving the Bronx and other underserved communities.
Einstein has always taken a holistic approach to admissions, and that won’t change. Getting in will remain incredibly competitive, but the goal isn’t just to admit students with the highest scores—it’s to build a class of future physicians who will use their training to make a real difference.
🔎 Are you planning to take the MCAT exam? Here are some expert tips that might help you.
The secondary application for Albert Einstein College of Medicine gives applicants the chance to provide context beyond their academic records. While some sections require only yes/no answers, others ask for explanations. Typically, secondary essays are great opportunities to clarify academic gaps, previous applications, or other relevant experiences.
If an applicant has taken time off from school, transferred colleges, or faced academic setbacks, they should use this space to explain—not just what happened, but what they learned from those experiences.
That said, this isn’t about portraying a flawless record. The admissions committee isn’t looking for perfection; they want to understand an applicant’s ability to adapt, improve, and handle challenges. A student who struggled academically might discuss the study habits they developed, while someone who took a gap year could highlight experiences that strengthened their commitment to medicine.
Einstein’s secondary application includes two optional essay prompts that provide a valuable opportunity to add depth to an application:
The first prompt is ideal for discussing experiences with diverse populations, perspectives, or challenges that shaped an applicant’s approach to medicine. The second prompt allows applicants to cover any final aspects of their application, such as a professional achievement, personal story, or unexpected challenge.
These responses should focus on real experiences and specific moments that shaped an applicant’s perspective. Given Einstein’s focus, this could include working with underserved communities, conducting research, or overcoming personal obstacles. In any case, strong essays offer insight into an applicant’s motivations.
For those with experience at Einstein—through research, volunteering, or clinical work—this is a chance to highlight those connections. For those without, the focus should be on aligning with the school’s values of healthcare equity, diversity, and service.
Each response should be specific and, most importantly, intentional. Rather than listing achievements, applicants should emphasize what those experiences meant and how they shaped their future in medicine.
Letters of recommendation are formal statements of your qualifications and potential as a future physician, issued by professionals who know you and your capabilities.
As such, submitting letters of recommendation is an important part of the application process for Albert Einstein College of Medicine. These letters help the admissions committee understand your academic strengths, character, and potential as a future physician.
Albert Einstein requires specific types of letters based on your academic background:
You may submit up to five letters total, including one or two extra recommendations from individuals who know you well, such as faculty, employers, research mentors, or volunteer supervisors. If you are applying to the MSTP (MD/PhD) program, you must include two letters from past research mentors.
All letters must be submitted through AMCAS and cannot be sent directly to Einstein. Recommenders can use AMCAS Letter Writer, VirtualEvals, Interfolio, or mail their letters to AMCAS. Letters must be on official letterhead, signed, and submitted by December 1. Your application will not be reviewed until all required letters are received.
Make an impression and leave an authentic image of yourself. Choose recommenders who know you well and can describe your academic abilities, personal qualities, and commitment to medicine. Give them plenty of time to write and submit their letters, and make sure they understand why you’re applying to Einstein and how they can help showcase your strengths.
The innovative tuition model at Albert Einstein College of Medicine has made medical education more accessible, but its eligibility policies remain firm.
To be considered for admission, applicants must meet strict eligibility requirements, including:
However, there are limitations for those who earned their degrees outside these countries.
Citizenship and residency status are critical factors in eligibility. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green card holders), or have DACA status. All applicants must complete at least one year (30 credit hours) of science coursework at a U.S.-chartered college or university to demonstrate readiness for medical education in the U.S. system.
Additionally, Einstein does not sponsor student visas for MD applicants, meaning international students who do not meet these criteria are ineligible.
For those pursuing residency or fellowship training, additional requirements apply, including state licensure, a criminal background check, and drug screenings before starting their program.
Since these requirements are strictly enforced, applicants must confirm their eligibility before applying. Failing to meet any academic, legal, or documentation requirements can lead to withdrawal from consideration or rescission of acceptance.
Applying to Albert Einstein College of Medicine is a multi-step process, but breaking it down makes it manageable. The application cycle begins in late May, when AMCAS starts accepting primary applications. Once Einstein receives your primary application, you’ll be invited to complete a secondary application.
Here are the key dates to remember:
Einstein follows a rolling admissions process, reviewing applications as they are received. However, general admission decisions for most applicants begin in March.
For those considering a deferral, requests must be submitted in writing and are typically only granted for structured academic, research, or clinical experiences.
Transfer applications are not accepted, so all students must apply as first-year applicants. Stay on top of deadlines, track required materials, and ensure that your application highlights your strongest qualities.
Getting into Albert Einstein College of Medicine requires academic excellence, meaningful experiences, and a strong application—there’s no doubt about it. But a well-crafted strategy can position you among the top candidates when applying.
Feeling a bit lost in the journey of applying to med school? Don’t worry. PreMed Catalyst offers personalized mentorship throughout every step of the process to help you succeed.
Schedule a free strategy session—your first step toward a successful medical career!