The highly competitive nature of MD/PhD programs almost requires prospective students to plan ahead during all of their undergraduate years, painstakingly working on each part of their application in order to become the strongest applicants possible.

Although there is no specific formula as to how to get into an MD/PhD program, there are several facets that will boost one's chances greatly. These are:

• Research - This is REALLY, REALLY important as not only do they demonstrate one's desire to pursue research as a career (the archetypal physical-scientist) it also provides an excellent avenue for letters of recommendation.
• High GPA - The national GPA average for MSTP programs is about 3.7, although it can range from 3.6 to 3.8.
• High test scores - The national average for MSTP programs is about 35, although the averages for individual programs may be above or below this mark.
• Satisfying coursework requirements - Many medical schools have special requirements for courses in addition to those in the standard UIUC pre-medical curriculum.