Many pre-med students focus solely on applying to MD programs, but DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) schools provide an excellent and often overlooked alternative. With a growing number of DO physicians entering the medical field, applying through AACOMAS (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service) can significantly increase your chances of acceptance and provide unique opportunities in medicine.

At AcceptMed, we help applicants strategically expand their options by considering both MD and DO pathways. If you’re looking to improve your acceptance odds while still receiving high-quality medical training, applying to AACOMAS schools may be the right move. This article explores the benefits of applying to DO schools, how AACOMAS differs from AMCAS, and who should consider this option.

1. The Growth of Osteopathic Medicine: Why DO Schools Are on the Rise

The Increasing Demand for DO Physicians

• The number of DO physicians has doubled in the last 20 years, with over 178,000 practicing DOs in the U.S. today.
• DOs now make up more than 11% of all practicing doctors.
• Over 25% of medical students in the U.S. are enrolled in osteopathic schools, highlighting the growth of DO programs.

What Makes DO Schools Different?

• Emphasis on Holistic Medicine – DO schools focus on treating the whole patient, not just the symptoms.
• Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) – DO students learn hands-on musculoskeletal techniques to enhance patient care.
• Stronger Primary Care Focus – Many DO graduates go into family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics.
• Equal Job Opportunities – DOs are fully licensed physicians, just like MDs, and can practice in all medical specialties.

2. Why Applying Through AACOMAS Can Boost Your Chances

Lower GPA & MCAT Cutoffs Compared to MD Schools

• DO schools tend to have slightly lower GPA and MCAT requirements than MD programs, making them a great option for students with strong applications but lower academic metrics.
• The average GPA for accepted DO students is around 3.5-3.7, while for MD programs, it’s typically 3.7-3.9.
• The average MCAT for DO matriculants is around 504-507, whereas MD programs often expect 510+.

More Holistic Review of Applicants

• DO schools focus heavily on extracurricular experiences, clinical exposure, and personal qualities.
• A strong application with meaningful activities, leadership, and service can compensate for a lower MCAT or GPA.

More Availability of Seats and New Schools Opening

• DO schools are expanding rapidly, increasing the number of available spots for students.
• New DO schools are opening across the U.S., giving applicants more opportunities to gain admission.

3. How AACOMAS Differs from AMCAS and How to Apply Effectively

Key Differences Between AACOMAS and AMCAS

Feature

Personal Statement

• AACOMAS: 5,300 characters
• AMCAS: 5,300 characters

Work & Activities

• AACOMAS: Unlimited entries
• AMCAS: Limited to 15 entries

Most Meaningful Experiences

• AACOMAS: Not applicable
• AMCAS: Choose 3 to expand upon

Committee Letters

• AACOMAS: Accepted
• AMCAS: Accepted

Rolling Admissions

• AACOMAS: Yes
• AMCAS: Yes

How to Strengthen Your AACOMAS Application

1. Highlight Osteopathic Medicine in Your Personal Statement
   
   • Show why DO philosophy appeals to you and how holistic care aligns with your values.
2. Emphasize Hands-On Experience
   
   • DO schools appreciate clinical exposure and patient interactions, so highlight your shadowing and volunteering experiences.
3. Secure a Letter from a DO Physician
   
   • Many DO schools strongly recommend or require a letter of recommendation from a DO doctor.
4. Submit Early for Rolling Admissions Advantage
   
   • Like AMCAS, AACOMAS operates on rolling admissions, so applying early increases your chances of acceptance.

If you are open to a broad range of medical opportunities and want to maximize your chances of acceptance, applying to DO schools through AACOMAS can be a game-changer.