Introduction
Some of the top best medical schools in California and are renowned for their exceptional academic programs, cutting-edge research, and dedication to volunteerism. This is a thorough examination of the top 10 medical schools in California, detailing the unique characteristics of each and including details on tuition and prerequisites for admission.
Table of Contents
1. Stanford University School of Medicine
Why it’s the Best:
Stanford is well known for its innovative academic offerings and wide range of research possibilities. Students can concentrate on various areas of interest under the specialized Academic Focus program.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.8
- MCAT: 519 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $61,000
- Additional Costs: $30,000
- Total Annual Cost: $91,000
2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine
Why it is one of the top best medical schools in California
UCSF consistently ranks among the top in both research and primary care, indicating its superiority in the fields of biological research and patient care.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.85
- MCAT: 518 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $57,000
- Additional Costs: $28,000
- Total Annual Cost: $85,000
3. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) David Geffen School of Medicine
Why it’s the Best:
With a large network of affiliated hospitals, UCLA offers outstanding clinical training along with a wide range of research opportunities.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.75
- MCAT: 516 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $50,000
- Additional Costs: $25,000
- Total Annual Cost: $75,000
4. University of Southern California (USC) Keck School of Medicine
Why it is one of the best medical schools in California
Keck offers an abundance of clinical and research opportunities and lays a significant focus on multidisciplinary education.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.7
- MCAT: 515 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $60,000
- Additional Costs: $32,000
- Total Annual Cost: $92,000
5. University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine
Why it’s the Best:
UCSD is well known for its active research programs and collaborations with top biomedical universities.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.75
- MCAT: 517 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $55,000
- Additional Costs: $27,000
- Total Annual Cost: $82,000
6. University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Medicine
Why it is one of the best medical schools in California
Through its ground-breaking Rural-PRIME initiative, UC Davis offers healthcare to rural areas as part of its commitment to community service.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.7
- MCAT: 514 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $52,000
- Additional Costs: $26,000
- Total Annual Cost: $78,000
7. University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine) School of Medicine
Why it’s the Best:
With an emphasis on technology and research, UC Irvine places a significant emphasis on innovation in medical education.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.7
- MCAT: 514 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $50,000
- Additional Costs: $25,000
- Total Annual Cost: $75,000
8. California North state University College of Medicine
Why it’s the Best:
With a focus on social in nature healthcare, this more modern medical school offers a comprehensive education.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.5
- MCAT: 510 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $58,000
- Additional Costs: $30,000
- Total Annual Cost: $88,000
9. Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why it can be the best medical schools in California
Community engagement and entirety patient care are given highest priority at Touro University’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) curriculum.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.5
- MCAT: 507 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $55,000
- Additional Costs: $28,000
- Total Annual Cost: $83,000
10. Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Why it’s the Best:
Whole-person care is given top priority at Loma Linda, where medical education is integrated with Christian values.
Admission Criteria:
- Minimum GPA: 3.6
- MCAT: 510 average
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Interview
Fees:
- Annual Tuition: $54,000
- Additional Costs: $29,000
- Total Annual Cost: $83,000
Comparison Table: Top 10 Medical Schools in California
| Rank | Medical School | Annual Tuition | Additional Costs | Total Annual Cost | Minimum GPA | Average MCAT |
| 1 | Stanford University School of Medicine | $61,000 | $30,000 | $91,000 | 3.8 | 519 |
| 2 | UCSF School of Medicine | $57,000 | $28,000 | $85,000 | 3.85 | 518 |
| 3 | UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine | $50,000 | $25,000 | $75,000 | 3.75 | 516 |
| 4 | USC Keck School of Medicine | $60,000 | $32,000 | $92,000 | 3.7 | 515 |
| 5 | UCSD School of Medicine | $55,000 | $27,000 | $82,000 | 3.75 | 517 |
| 6 | UC Davis School of Medicine | $52,000 | $26,000 | $78,000 | 3.7 | 514 |
| 7 | UC Irvine School of Medicine | $50,000 | $25,000 | $75,000 | 3.7 | 514 |
| 8 | California North state University College of Medicine | $58,000 | $30,000 | $88,000 | 3.5 | 510 |
| 9 | Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine | $55,000 | $28,000 | $83,000 | 3.5 | 507 |
| 10 | Loma Linda University School of Medicine | $54,000 | $29,000 | $83,000 | 3.6 | 510 |
Conclusion
Choosing the right medical school is essential to a successful medical career. The institutions indicated above are not only among the greatest in California, but they also score highly across the board. Each school offers unique opportunities and activities that distinguish them in areas such as clinical training, research, and community involvement. Check out these schools’ entrance requirements and funding needs to decide which one best fits your aspirations to become a doctor. There are also so many best law schools in California that can also be a good opportunity for those who want to study law.
