If you're applying to medical school in the U.S., chances are you've heard of AMCAS, AACOMAS, and TMDSAS—the three main application systems for allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) programs. But understanding the key differences between these platforms is essential for crafting a stronger, more strategic application.

At AcceptMed, we specialize in helping applicants navigate the complex medical school admissions process. Whether you’re applying to MD programs through AMCAS, DO schools through AACOMAS, or Texas medical schools through TMDSAS, knowing how each system operates, what they emphasize, and how to optimize your application can make a significant difference in your success.

1. Key Differences Between AMCAS, AACOMAS, and TMDSAS

General Overview of Each System

• AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service)
  
  • Used by MD programs in the U.S. (excluding Texas).
  • Primary application includes: Personal statement, Work & Activities section, and letters of recommendation.
  • Application opens in May; submission starts in early June.
  • Cost: $170 for the first school, $43 per additional school.
• AACOMAS (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service)
  
  • Used by DO schools across the U.S.
  • Unlimited Work & Activities section, allowing for more detailed descriptions.
  • Application opens in May; submission starts in early June.
  • Cost: $197 for the first school, $48 per additional school.
• TMDSAS (Texas Medical & Dental Schools Application Service)
  
  • Used for MD, DO, and dental schools in Texas.
  • Requires a Personal Characteristics Essay and an optional Challenge Essay in addition to the standard personal statement.
  • Application opens in early May; submission starts in mid-May.
  • Cost: $200 flat fee for all schools.

2. How Each System Evaluates Work & Activities

AMCAS Work & Activities Section

• You can enter up to 15 activities, but only 3 can be marked as “Most Meaningful” with expanded descriptions.
• Includes clinical experience, research, leadership, and volunteering.
• Focuses on impact and personal growth rather than just listing duties.

AACOMAS Work & Activities Section

• No limit on the number of entries, so you can include more experiences than AMCAS.
• Allows for longer descriptions, which can be helpful for applicants with strong extracurricular backgrounds.
• Prioritizes holistic review, meaning a well-rounded activities section can compensate for a lower GPA or MCAT.

TMDSAS Work & Activities Section

• Allows unlimited activities, but requires applicants to categorize each experience (academic, employment, healthcare, etc.).
• Offers a separate "Supporting Information" section for more details.
• Texas schools emphasize clinical and service-based experiences, so highlight these areas if applying through TMDSAS.

3. How Personal Statements Differ Across Systems

AMCAS (MD Programs)

• 5,300-character personal statement answering "Why do you want to be a doctor?"
• Essays should focus on patient experiences, leadership, and personal growth.

AACOMAS (DO Programs)

• 5,300-character personal statement, similar to AMCAS, but should highlight osteopathic principles like holistic medicine and patient-centered care.
• Strong applicants demonstrate a clear understanding of the DO philosophy.

TMDSAS (Texas Schools)

• 5,000-character personal statement, slightly shorter than AMCAS/AACOMAS.
• Includes an additional Personal Characteristics Essay (2,500 characters) and an optional Challenge Essay (2,500 characters).
• Focus on how your background, leadership, and personal journey have shaped your path to medicine.

4. Letters of Recommendation Differences

• AMCAS & AACOMAS: Accepts committee letters, individual letters, or letter packets.
• TMDSAS: Requires letters to be submitted directly through the TMDSAS portal (not via AMCAS or AACOMAS).

Most schools require 3-5 letters, including:

• 2 science professors.
• 1 non-science professor.
• 1 physician or mentor (strongly recommended).

5. Application Timeline and Processing Differences

• AMCAS: 4-6 weeks for verification.
• AACOMAS: 3-4 weeks for verification.
• TMDSAS: Faster processing time compared to AMCAS.

Texas medical schools prioritize in-state applicants, and TMDSAS has a different rolling admissions schedule, including early interviews and match day for Texas schools.

Choosing between AMCAS, AACOMAS, and TMDSAS depends on:

• Your career goals (MD vs. DO vs. Texas Schools).
• Your GPA/MCAT strength (DO schools may be more flexible with stats).
• Your state residency (Texas residents should prioritize TMDSAS).