How much does it cost to apply to medical school?

The total cost to apply to medical school ranges from roughly $2,500 to $8,000+ depending on how many schools you apply to. The AMCAS primary application starts at $180 for the first school and adds $48 per additional school. Secondary application fees average $100 per school. Travel to interviews adds another $400–800 per interview invite.

What is the AMCAS primary application fee for 2025–2026?

The AMCAS primary application fee is $180 for your first school designation. Each additional school costs $48. Applying to 20 schools costs $180 + (19 × $48) = $1,092. AMCAS offers a Fee Assistance Program (FAP) for applicants who demonstrate financial need.

Do all medical schools charge secondary application fees?

Most MD programs charge secondary application fees, typically between $50–$200 per school with an average of about $100. Some schools offer secondary fee waivers for AMCAS FAP recipients.

Is there financial assistance for medical school application costs?

Yes, and it is worth more than most people realise. The AAMC Fee Assistance Program waives all AMCAS fees for one submission covering up to 20 schools (a $1,092 value), cuts MCAT registration from $355 to $145, includes the MCAT Official Prep bundle, and gives you a two-year MSAR subscription. Eligibility is 400% of the federal poverty level or below — not 300%, as is often reported — which for 2026 means a family of four qualifies up to $128,600. If you are under 26 you must report your parents' income regardless of whether you are financially independent. Apply before you submit your primary, because the waiver cannot be applied retroactively.

Medical School Application Cost Calculator 2025–2026

The total cost to apply to medical school is typically $2,500–$8,000+ depending on how many schools you apply to. This page breaks down every cost in the application cycle and includes a free interactive calculator for your specific situation.

AMCAS Primary Application Fee Schedule

Schools Designated	Primary Fee
1 school	$180
5 schools	$372 ($180 + 4×$48)
10 schools	$612 ($180 + 9×$48)
15 schools	$852 ($180 + 14×$48)
20 schools	$1,092 ($180 + 19×$48)
25 schools	$1,332 ($180 + 24×$48)

Full Cost Breakdown

AMCAS primary application: $180 base + $48 per additional school
Secondary application fees: $50–$200 per school (average ~$100)
Interview travel: $400–$800 per interview (flights, hotel, meals). Most applicants receive 3–6 invites.
MCAT registration: $355 (separate from application costs)
MSAR access: $28/year (recommended for school research)

Use AesculaMD's free application cost calculator to estimate your total based on your specific school list.

Open Application Cost Calculator →

Medical School Application Cost Calculator 2025–2026

AMCAS Primary Application Fee Schedule

Full Cost Breakdown

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