Applying to medical school is a complex process, and one of the first major decisions you’ll make is choosing which application system(s) to use. In the U.S., there are three primary application services:

• AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) – Used for all MD (allopathic) programs except for most Texas schools.
• AACOMAS (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service) – Used for all DO (osteopathic) programs.
• TMDSAS (Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service) – Used for both MD and DO programs in Texas.

At AcceptMed, we help students navigate the nuances of each system, ensuring they submit applications that maximize their chances of acceptance. Each application service has different requirements, costs, and benefits, so it’s important to understand which one aligns best with your medical school goals.

AMCAS: The Standard for MD Programs

AMCAS is the most widely used application system for U.S. medical schools, as it serves nearly all MD programs except for those in Texas.

Who Should Apply Through AMCAS?

• Anyone applying to allopathic (MD) programs outside of Texas.
• Students aiming for highly competitive specialties or programs with strong research funding.
• Applicants who prefer a more traditional, research-focused medical education.

Key Features of AMCAS:

• Personal Statement: 5,300 characters explaining your journey to medicine.
• Work & Activities Section: Up to 15 experiences, with three marked as Most Meaningful.
• Letters of Recommendation: Up to 10 letters allowed.
• Application Fees: $175 for the first school + $45 per additional school.
• Rolling Admissions: Apply early to increase your chances.

Does AMCAS Give You the Best Shot?

• Yes, if: You are a competitive applicant with strong GPA/MCAT scores aiming for MD programs.
• No, if: You want to apply to Texas MD schools or are open to DO programs as well.

AACOMAS: The Path to Becoming a DO

AACOMAS is the exclusive application service for DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) programs. If you’re interested in holistic medicine, primary care, or Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), AACOMAS is your gateway.

Who Should Apply Through AACOMAS?

• Students interested in the osteopathic approach to medicine.
• Applicants who want to maximize their chances of acceptance by applying to both MD and DO schools.
• Those who have a lower GPA or MCAT score, as DO schools may have slightly lower academic thresholds.

Key Features of AACOMAS:

• Personal Statement: 5,300 characters, similar to AMCAS, but should emphasize osteopathic philosophy.
• Work & Activities Section: Unlimited entries (no "Most Meaningful" designation).
• Letters of Recommendation: Up to 6 letters.
• Application Fees: $198 for the first school + $55 per additional school.
• Rolling Admissions: Submitting early is crucial.

Does AACOMAS Give You the Best Shot?

• Yes, if: You are open to both MD and DO paths or have a slightly lower GPA/MCAT score.
• No, if: You are only interested in MD programs or have strong stats that make you competitive for top MD schools.

TMDSAS: The Unique Texas Med School System

Texas has its own medical school application service: TMDSAS. This system is used by all public medical schools in Texas, including both MD and DO programs.

Who Should Apply Through TMDSAS?

• Texas residents (since Texas schools strongly favor in-state applicants).
• Students looking for lower tuition costs and more affordable medical education.
• Applicants who want to increase their chances of getting into a Texas MD or DO program.

Key Features of TMDSAS:

• Personal Statement: 5,000 characters (slightly shorter than AMCAS/AACOMAS).
• Work & Activities Section: Unlimited entries (requires hours & supervisor info for each).
• Unique Essays: Includes a Personal Characteristics Essay and an Optional Essay.
• Letters of Recommendation: Only 3 individual letters allowed (or a committee letter).
• Flat Application Fee: $200 for all schools (much cheaper than AMCAS or AACOMAS).
• Match System: Unlike AMCAS and AACOMAS, TMDSAS uses a residency-style match system for admissions.

Does TMDSAS Give You the Best Shot?

• Yes, if: You are a Texas resident—Texas schools prioritize in-state applicants.
• No, if: You are an out-of-state applicant, as spots for non-Texas residents are extremely limited.

Which Application System is Best for You?

If You Are Applying Only to MD Schools → Use AMCAS

• Best for students aiming for top MD programs.
• The most common application system for medical school.
• Competitive for highly specialized fields and research-driven institutions.

If You Are Applying Only to DO Schools → Use AACOMAS

• Required for all osteopathic schools in the U.S.
• Ideal for students interested in holistic medicine and OMT.
• May offer greater flexibility for students with lower stats.

If You Are Applying to Texas Schools → Use TMDSAS

• Required for Texas public medical schools.
• Offers lower in-state tuition and greater preference for Texas residents.
• Unique match system that differs from AMCAS and AACOMAS.

If You Are Applying to a Mix of MD, DO, and Texas Schools → Use Multiple Systems

• Many students apply through both AMCAS and AACOMAS to maximize their chances.
• If applying to Texas schools, expect to juggle three applications.

Deciding between AMCAS, AACOMAS, and TMDSAS is a crucial step in your medical school journey. Your choice should be strategic, based on your target schools, residency status, and medical career goals.

• AMCAS is for MD programs (except Texas) and best for highly competitive applicants.
• AACOMAS is for DO programs and ideal for students interested in holistic medicine.
• TMDSAS is for Texas schools and best for Texas residents due to strong in-state preference.
• Applying to multiple systems can increase your chances, but requires strong organization and time management.

Choosing the right application system is the first step toward a successful med school journey.