Communicating with medical schools after secondaries

With applications submitted by the end of summer, it can feel like there is a pause in communication with schools after that.  You may consider sending some form of communication.  Sending communication is not a requirement and it should be done only with great care, thought, and planning. Not all schools accept them and/or all types of communication, so only send something if a school accepts them. You should not over-communicate with a school and you should not send anything a school does not accept. If and what types of communication a school accepts can be found in MSAR.  

Sending an Update

As of the 2026M cycle an update is defined by the AAMC needing to be significant with examples given such as published research or articles, significant honors, and/or significant new healthcare or community service. 

Here are some things to consider:

  • Updates may be sent throughout the year and may be sent prior to interviews if the information will expand or enhance your application.  Some schools have a maximum number of updates you can send or windows of time when you are allowed to send them.  Follow those rules first.
  • An update letter should follow similar guidance to your experience entries on your primary and your secondaries.  The update should describe, demonstrate how you’ve grown/impacted others/ core competencies all while highlighting how this has better prepared you to be a future member of that specific school. 

Letter of Interest

As of the 2026M cycle, a Letter of Interest is defined by medical schools as a letter sent to admissions offices that communicates the applicant's interest and belief that they are well-aligned with the medical school.

  • If allowed by the medical school, letters of interest are applicable to applicants not yet invited to complete a secondary application or to interview.
  • This letter reinforces mission alignment.

Letter of Intent

As of the 2026M cycle, a Letter of Intent communicates the applicant's intention to attend the medical school if offered an acceptance (indicating withdrawal from other schools which have already offered acceptance and withdrawal from waitlists). Things to consider when sending a letter of intent:

  • Generally, these are sent after an interview or being put on a waitlist when you have enough experience with the school for you to have strong credibility that you know this is the right school for you.
  • You should send a Letter of Intent to only one school, and if accepted, should not change your mind. In your letter, explain why they are your first choice, what you would bring to that school and clearly state that you will accept an offer.

Tips If You Write a School

  • A strong draft of a letter is:
    • Written in a clear, professional tone, and it should be concise – no more than a page long.   
    • Include your name, cycle you are in, AAMC/TMDSAS/AACOMAS ID and an appreciation of the ongoing consideration of your candidacy.
    • Be sure to thank the Admissions Committee for considering your application.
  • Frequent updates may be an inconvenience to the admissions committee and can affect your candidacy. Your correspondence should be viewed as useful and appropriate, not overly eager and annoying.
  • Check MSAR for:
    • Dates when schools would like to receive information.  We advise waiting until mid to late October to send anything unless explicitly directed by a school to do something different.
    • How to submit your letter as each school is different whether you submit it through the portal or email.
  • Keep copies of everything you send.

If you are unsure of how to proceed after reviewing this information, please contact your prehealth advisor directly.