If you’re applying to medical schools in Texas, you might be wondering why the TMDSAS (Texas Medical & Dental Schools Application Service) exists and how it differs from the more commonly known AMCAS (for MD schools) and AACOMAS (for DO schools). Unlike most U.S. medical schools, public medical schools in Texas use TMDSAS, which has different deadlines, requirements, and selection processes than AMCAS and AACOMAS.

At AcceptMed, we’ve helped countless applicants navigate the unique Texas medical school admissions system. Whether you’re a Texas resident looking for the best in-state options or an out-of-state applicant wondering if you should apply, understanding TMDSAS can help you strategically improve your chances of acceptance.

What is TMDSAS?

TMDSAS is the centralized application system for public medical schools in Texas. While private medical schools in Texas (such as Baylor College of Medicine) use AMCAS, all public Texas MD and DO schools use TMDSAS.

Schools that use TMDSAS include:

• Texas A&M College of Medicine
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine
• University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)
• McGovern Medical School (UTHealth)
• Long School of Medicine (UT Health San Antonio)
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine
• University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
• Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
• University of North Texas Health Science Center – Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

If you’re applying to multiple Texas medical schools, TMDSAS simplifies the process by allowing you to submit one application for all participating schools.

Key Takeaway: If you want to attend a public medical school in Texas, you must apply through TMDSAS—not AMCAS or AACOMAS.

How is TMDSAS Different from AMCAS and AACOMAS?

TMDSAS is unique in several ways, making it different from AMCAS (for MD programs nationwide) and AACOMAS (for DO programs nationwide). The biggest differences include:

Flat Fee for Multiple Schools

• TMDSAS charges a flat $200 fee, regardless of how many Texas schools you apply to.
• In contrast, AMCAS and AACOMAS charge per school, making TMDSAS a much cheaper option if you’re applying to multiple Texas programs.

Longer Personal Statement (5,000 Characters Instead of 5,300)

• While AMCAS and AACOMAS allow a 5,300-character personal statement, TMDSAS limits it to 5,000 characters.
• This means you need to be concise while still telling a compelling story about why you want to become a physician.

The TMDSAS “Personal Characteristics” Essay

• TMDSAS requires a separate 2,500-character essay focused on your personal background, experiences, and diversity.
• This is not required in AMCAS or AACOMAS, so you’ll need to prepare an additional essay.

Additional “Optional” Essays

• TMDSAS includes an optional essay (2,500 characters) for explaining any weaknesses, gaps, or other factors in your application.
• While technically optional, it’s highly recommended to use this space if you have any academic struggles or unique circumstances to explain.

Key Takeaway: TMDSAS has different essay requirements, including a Personal Characteristics Essay and an optional explanation essay. Be sure to tailor your writing accordingly.

TMDSAS Residency Preferences: Why Texas Applicants Have an Advantage

One of the biggest advantages of TMDSAS is for Texas residents. Texas medical schools prioritize in-state applicants, meaning:

• 90% of medical school seats in TMDSAS schools are reserved for Texas residents.
• Out-of-state applicants face much tougher competition and very limited spots.
• Tuition for in-state students is significantly lower compared to other U.S. medical schools.

Who Counts as a Texas Resident?
To qualify as a Texas resident, you must have lived in Texas for at least 12 months prior to applying and be able to prove residency through work, school, or legal documents.

Key Takeaway: If you’re a Texas resident, applying through TMDSAS gives you a huge advantage in acceptance rates and tuition costs.

TMDSAS Rolling Admissions and the Match Process

Unlike AMCAS, which has a more traditional rolling admissions system, TMDSAS has its own unique match system:

Texas Match (Ranking System)

• TMDSAS applicants rank their school preferences after they complete interviews.
• Schools also rank applicants based on their evaluations.
• Matches are announced in February, and applicants receive a single acceptance.

What This Means for You:

• You should only interview at schools you would be happy attending since you may be matched there.
• You can receive multiple offers before the match, but after February, you’ll be placed at your top-ranked school that accepted you.

Key Takeaway: Unlike AMCAS, which allows multiple acceptances at once, TMDSAS applicants go through a ranking and match system—so be strategic when ranking your preferred schools.

How to Make Your TMDSAS Application Stand Out

Because TMDSAS has its own set of requirements, applicants need to adjust their strategy to maximize their chances of acceptance.

Tips to Strengthen Your TMDSAS Application:

• Write a strong Personal Characteristics Essay that highlights your background, leadership, resilience, and cultural competency.
• Apply early! TMDSAS follows a rolling admissions system, meaning early applicants have a significant advantage.
• Be strategic about your ranking during the Texas Match to maximize your chances of getting into a preferred school.
• Make sure your letters of recommendation are tailored to Texas medical schools’ focus on community service, leadership, and diversity.

Key Takeaway: Because of the Texas Match process and unique essay requirements, applicants should approach their TMDSAS application strategically to increase their chances of success.

Is TMDSAS Right for You?

Applying through TMDSAS is a must for Texas residents and an option worth considering for out-of-state students willing to compete for limited seats. Lower tuition, a unique ranking system, and a flat application fee make TMDSAS a compelling choice for many applicants.

• TMDSAS is required for Texas public medical schools, while private schools (like Baylor) use AMCAS.
• Texas residents have a major advantage—90% of seats are reserved for in-state applicants.
• The Texas Match system is different from AMCAS—applicants rank schools, and matches are finalized in February.
• TMDSAS has unique essays, including a Personal Characteristics Essay and an optional explanation essay.
• Applying early is crucial due to TMDSAS’s rolling admissions process.