Medical schools value students who lead balanced lives and show a commitment to serving others. You don’t need a science degree to be considered for medical school! Getting involved early in your college career can demonstrate your dedication. Remember—your GPA and entrance exam scores aren’t everything. 

A Balanced Life Experience 

Most students who leave medical school don’t fail academically; they struggle with life and family issues. It’s important to become a well-rounded person before entering medical school. Explore activities you’re already involved in or consider new ones that align with your interests and personality. 

Counseling and Basic Needs Assistance 

The PPSC Counseling Center offers short-term crisis counseling and referrals to community resources. We’re here to help you adjust, cope, and succeed in college. PPSC also connects you to tons of basic needs assistance services to help ensure you have access to food, housing, transportation, and other life essentials so you can focus on school.  

PPSC Clubs and Organizations 

Join one of PPSC’s many clubs and organizations to enrich your extracurricular life and develop new skills. 

Create a Plan Now! 

Start a journal to track your experiences, keep records of your contacts, and set priorities for your journey toward medical school while you’re at PPSC. 

Service Learning, Volunteering, and Sustainability Activities 

PPSC offers numerous service-learning opportunities through classes or volunteer work. These experiences can enhance your medical school application. 

The Office of Sustainability at PPSC hosts various activities throughout the academic year. 

Volunteer or work at organizations like those listed below to build your experience and create valuable relationships with mentors and peers who can support you on your path to medical school. 

Seeing the Big Picture 

Understand the full cost of your medical education. For example, graduates from UC Denver’s medical school may leave with $155,000 in debt, not including debt from their AA/AS or BA/BS degrees. Start researching medical school scholarships early, as some require applications six months to a year in advance. 

Financial Aid 

While you’re at PPSC, schedule an appointment with a Financial Aid counselor to explore your options, both now and when you transfer to a four-year college or university.  

FINANCIAL AID AT PPSC  

Exchange Programs 

• Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education - Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP) 

• The PSEP allows students in 10 western states to enroll in selected out-of-state graduate healthcare programs at reduced tuition rates. States fund students to enroll if a professional healthcare program isn’t available at an in-state public institution. 

• Competitive Applications: Your home state determines which fields it will support and how many seats are funded. 

• Deadline: October 15 of the year before applying. 

• Colorado Requirement: Service payback of 4 years of practice after graduation. 

Learn more about PSEP 

Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) 

WRGP allows master’s, graduate certificate, and Ph.D. students in WICHE member states to enroll in over 450 high-quality programs at 61 institutions outside their home state, paying resident tuition rates. 

• In fall 2016, 1,567 students enrolled through WRGP, saving an estimated $23.3 million in tuition, with each student saving an average of $14,900 annually. 

Learn more about WRGP 

Military Opportunities for Med School Funding 

The Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) offers funding for prospective military physicians, dentists, and nurse practitioners.