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Upstate Medical Guaranteed Entrance Program Application Process

Are you passionate about pursuing a career in medicine while benefiting from a transformative liberal arts education?

The SUNY Purchase / SUNY Upstate Medical University Guaranteed Entrance Program (GEP) offers highly motivated students a unique pathway to earn their undergraduate degree at SUNY Purchase and secure a guaranteed seat in the MD program at SUNY Upstate Medical University, provided all program requirements are met.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Apply and be admitted to SUNY Purchase as an incoming first-year student
  • Indicate interest in the Guaranteed Entrance Program through the SUNY Purchase application
  • Submit required supplementary essays
    • What experiences have influenced your desire to become a physician?
    • Upstate Medical is located in Central New York. Training physicians to practice rural medicine in this part of the state is central to their mission. As part of the Purchase/Upstate Medical Pathway Program, Upstate is seeking to identify talented young people to serve this area for at least a portion of their career.
    • What ties do you have to the Central New York region if any?
    • How do you envision contributing to the communities in the Central New York region as a future medical professional?
  • Submit official standardized test scores (there is no minimum score required but typical successful applicants present SAT scores of 1350 or higher or ACT composite scores of 30 or higher)
  • Demonstrate strong academic achievement through high school and/or college coursework
  • Provide supporting materials, including recommendations, extracurricular accomplishments, and evidence of commitment to medicine

Preferred Candidate Characteristics

The program seeks students who demonstrate:

  • Strong academic achievement and preparation for rigorous undergraduate and medical studies
  • A clear commitment to pursuing a career in medicine
  • Interest in serving medically underserved, rural, or vulnerable populations
  • Demonstrated leadership, service, and community engagement
  • Interest in contributing to the health and well-being of communities in Central New York
  • Meaningful experiences in healthcare, scientific research, advocacy, education, or community service

Application Process

Program Requirements After Enrollment at SUNY Purchase

Students admitted to the Guaranteed Entrance Program must meet all continuation requirements to maintain their reserved seat in Upstate’s College of Medicine.

Medical School Matriculation

Students who successfully satisfy all program requirements will receive admission to SUNY Upstate Medical University’s College of Medicine.

  • The MCAT requirement is waived for program participants.
  • Students must still complete an official MCAT examination within 12 months of anticipated enrollment at Upstate for assessment purposes.
  • Acceptance into the program represents a commitment to matriculate at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Students who apply to other medical schools will be withdrawn from the Guaranteed Entrance Program.

Program Capacity

SUNY Upstate Medical University will admit up to five students annually through the SUNY Purchase Guaranteed Entrance Program.

More Information

For more information on the program, visit the SUNY Upstate Partnership webpage.

The SUNY Purchase / SUNY Upstate Medical University Guaranteed Entrance Program is subject to modification based on institutional policies and mutual agreement between the participating institutions.