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Washington University Medical Campus is a world-renowned center for medical education, research, and healthcare excellence. Known for shaping leaders in medicine, public health, and biomedical research, this campus is where ambition meets purpose. If your goal is to advance human health, push the boundaries of science, and make a real-world impact, Washington University Medical Campus offers the environment, resources, and mentorship to help you succeed.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Washington University Medical Campus, including rankings, acceptance rate, programs offered, tuition fees, scholarships, eligibility requirements, student life, and accommodation options.
The Washington University Medical Campus is located in St. Louis, Missouri. It is part of Washington University in St. Louis, one of the most prestigious private research universities in the United States. Established in 1891, the medical campus is internationally recognized for its contributions to clinical care, biomedical research, and medical education.
The campus houses leading institutions, including the School of Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, and multiple research centers. Together, they form one of the largest and most integrated academic medical complexes in the country.
The campus has strong partnerships in biomedical research, clinical training, and healthcare innovation. Additionally, it also provides students with extensive hands-on learning opportunities and access to cutting-edge facilities. It attracts students, researchers, and professionals from around the world who seek rigorous academic training and meaningful contributions to the field of healthcare. With thousands of medical students, residents, fellows, faculty members, and researchers, the campus fosters a highly collaborative environment. Its low student-to-faculty ratio ensures close mentorship, personalized training, and hands-on clinical exposure from the earliest stages of study.
Washington University Medical Campus consistently ranks among the world’s leading medical and research institutions, reflecting its long-standing reputation for academic excellence and scientific innovation. It is regularly placed among the top 10 medical schools in the United States for research and is widely recognized for outstanding achievements in clinical medicine, neuroscience, genetics, oncology, public health, and biomedical sciences. The university is also frequently featured among the top 50 universities worldwide by major international ranking bodies, highlighting its global impact and influence.
With strong funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), state-of-the-art research facilities, and a collaborative academic environment, Washington University Medical Campus continues to drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and technological advancements. These achievements demonstrate the institution’s commitment to rigorous education, interdisciplinary research, and improving healthcare systems and patient outcomes worldwide, making it a preferred destination for aspiring medical professionals and researchers.
Washington University Medical Campus has a very low acceptance rate compared to many colleges and universities, reflecting its position as one of the most selective medical schools in the United States. Only about 2% of applicants are admitted to the MD program each year, with around 6,000+ applicants competing for roughly 120-125 seats.
This means admissions at WashU Medical Campus are highly competitive, especially when compared to technical or general undergraduate institutions. Prospective students typically need outstanding academic records, strong MCAT scores, significant research experience, and compelling personal achievements to be considered for admission.
Washington University Medical Campus offers a wide range of advanced professional, graduate, and research-focused programs designed for students pursuing careers in medicine, healthcare, and biomedical sciences. These programs emphasize clinical excellence, scientific innovation, and interdisciplinary learning.
| Study Area | Program | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | MD (Doctor of Medicine) | Becoming a licensed physician |
| Medicine & Research | MD/PhD | Physician-scientist careers |
| Physician Assistant | Master of PA Studies | Clinical practice roles |
| Physical Therapy | DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) | Rehabilitation careers |
| Occupational Therapy | OTD / MSOT | Patient care and therapy |
| Anesthesiology | Nurse Anesthesia (DNAP/DNP) | Advanced nursing practice |
| Public Health | MD/MPH | Community and global health |
| Clinical Research | Clinical Investigation Program | Research-based medicine |
| Study Area | Degree Program | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Biomedical Sciences | PhD Biomedical Sciences | Academic and research careers |
| Neuroscience | PhD Neuroscience | Brain and cognitive research |
| Genetics | PhD Genetics & Genomics | Genomic medicine careers |
| Immunology | PhD Immunology | Disease research |
| Molecular Biology | PhD Molecular Cell Biology | Laboratory science careers |
| Public Health | MPH | Health policy and leadership |
| Biostatistics | MS Biostatistics | Medical data analysis |
| Clinical Research | MS Clinical Investigation | Translational research |
| Health Informatics | MS Health Informatics | Healthcare technology careers |
| Level | Program | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Clinical Research Management | Research coordinators |
| Certificate | Biomedical Data Science | Health data specialists |
| Certificate | Global Health | International healthcare work |
| Certificate | Medical Education | Academic medicine careers |
| Certificate | Health Policy & Management | Healthcare administration |
| Certificate | Translational Medicine | Clinical innovation |
Washington University Medical Campus tuition reflects its status as a world-class private medical and research institution. Fees are significantly higher than those of public colleges, as they include access to advanced clinical training, research facilities, and affiliated hospitals such as Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
| Student Type | Program Type | Estimated Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Student | MD / Professional Programs | $65,000 – $68,000 per year |
| International Student | MD / Professional Programs | $65,000 – $68,000 per year |
| Graduate Student | MS / MPH Programs | $55,000 – $62,000 per year |
| Doctoral Student | PhD Programs | Tuition is often fully funded |
Additional costs may include health insurance, books, instruments, lab fees, housing, and living expenses. However, many students, especially those in PhD and research-based programs, receive full tuition coverage, stipends, or assistantships. Despite the high tuition, Washington University Medical Campus is widely regarded as a strong investment due to its exceptional academic reputation, research funding, clinical exposure, and career outcomes.
Washington University Medical Campus is deeply committed to supporting talented and motivated students through generous scholarships, grants, fellowships, and financial aid programs. A significant percentage of students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, research fellowships, tuition waivers, and living stipends. These funding opportunities enable students to focus on clinical training, research, and professional development without excessive financial stress.
| Scholarship / Program Name | Eligibility / Criteria | Annual Amount | Program Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| WashU Medical Merit Scholarship | Outstanding academic record | $20,000 – $40,000 | Up to $160,000 (MD) |
| Need-Based Institutional Aid | Demonstrated financial need | $15,000 – $50,000 | Varies by program |
| Dean’s Scholarship (Medical) | High academic & leadership profile | $25,000 – $45,000 | Up to $180,000 |
| MD/PhD Fellowship Program | Research excellence | Full tuition + stipend | Fully funded |
| Graduate Research Fellowship | PhD / Research students | Full tuition + stipend | Fully funded |
| Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship | Underrepresented backgrounds | $10,000 – $25,000 | Varies |
| External Scholarships (NIH, NSF) | Competitive national awards | Full or partial funding | Program-based |
With a very low acceptance rate (typically around 2–5% for medical programs), admission is extremely competitive. The Washington University Medical Campus admissions process is highly structured, selective, and academically rigorous, reflecting its reputation as one of the top medical and research institutions in the world.
Selected applicants usually demonstrate outstanding academic records, strong test scores, relevant clinical or research experience, and a clear motivation for careers in healthcare and biomedical sciences. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the admission process clearly.
1. Choose Your Program and Application Platform
Applicants must first select their intended program, such as MD, MD/PhD, MPH, MS, or PhD. Applications are submitted through centralized platforms depending on the program:
1. MD Program: AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service)
2. Graduate Programs: WashU Graduate Admissions Portal
3. Public Health / Master’s Programs: Program-specific portals
2. Submit Academic Transcripts
Applicants must provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions, including undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Strong academic performance, particularly in science-related courses, is essential for medical and research programs
3. Standardized Test Scores (If Required)
Some programs require standardized exam scores, such as:
1. MCAT (for MD programs)
2. GRE (for selected graduate programs)
3. Other program-specific exams
4. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
International applicants whose first language is not English must submit proof of proficiency. Accepted tests typically include:
1. TOEFL
2. IELTS
3. PTE Academic
5. Submit Supporting Documents
Depending on the program, applicants may be required to submit:
1. Personal statement or statement of purpose
2. Letters of recommendation (academic and professional)
3. Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
4. Research statement or portfolio (for PhD applicants)
5. Copy of passport (for international students)
6. Financial documentation (for visa processing)
6. Interviews and Faculty Review
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, which may be conducted in person or online. These interviews assess communication skills, ethical reasoning, motivation for healthcare careers, and alignment with the university’s values.
7. Admission Decision and Enrollment
After the final evaluation, applicants receive an official admission decision. Accepted students must confirm enrollment by submitting a deposit (if required), complete health and background verification, and finalize visa procedures (for international students).
General Requirements:
1. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
2. Strong academic record (minimum GPA typically 3.0+, competitive applicants often higher)
3. Relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, or health sciences
Standardized Tests:
1. MCAT – required for MD programs
2. GRE – required for some master’s and PhD programs
3. English Proficiency (International Students): TOEFL: 90+, IELTS: 6.5–7.0+
Student life outside the Washington University Medical Campus is vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and personal growth. Located in St. Louis, students benefit from an affordable cost of living compared to many major U.S. cities, making it easier to enjoy life beyond academics. Popular nearby areas such as Central West End, Delmar Loop, and Forest Park offer cafés, restaurants, bookstores, music venues, and shopping spaces where students often gather to unwind and socialize.
Students can explore world-class attractions such as the St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis Zoo, and Forest Park, all of which are free and within easy reach of campus. Sports enthusiasts enjoy attending games of the St. Louis Cardinals, Blues, and CITY SC, while music and theater lovers can visit local concert halls and performance centers. The city’s strong healthcare and biotech industry also provides part-time work, internships, and networking opportunities.
Washington University Medical Campus stands out for its research excellence, clinical training, and global reputation. Graduates are highly sought after by leading hospitals, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and public health organizations.
Key advantages include:
1. Strong mentorship and small cohort sizes
2. Unmatched research funding and facilities
3. Direct exposure to top-tier hospitals
4. High residency placement and career success rates
5. A mission-driven focus on improving human health
On-campus housing at Washington University Medical Campus is limited and highly in demand, which means rooms and apartments often fill up quickly. Due to this, many students search for off-campus housing, and with amber, students can easily explore a wide range of verified off-campus student accommodations near Washington University Medical Campus. Amber offers modern, fully furnished housing options with flexible lease terms, high-speed internet, study spaces, fitness centers, and community areas, making your stay comfortable.
Here are a few student accommodations near Washington University Medical Campus:
1. West Pine Lofts St. Louis - from $849/month
2. The Standard St Louis - from $870/month
3. City Lofts St Louis - from $870/month
4. Terra At The Grove St. Louis - from $1350/month
5. Kingsbury St. Louis - from $1898/month
A GPA of 3.7 or higher for MD programs and 3.3+ for most graduate programs.
International students generally pay the same tuition as domestic students. For medical programs, annual tuition is approximately USD $65,000–$68,000, while graduate programs range from USD $55,000–$62,000 per year, depending on the course.
Yes, admission is highly competitive. The MD program has an acceptance rate of around 2–5%, and applicants are selected based on academic performance, test scores, research experience, and personal achievements.
Medicine and Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience, Public Health, Clinical Research, Biostatistics, and Allied Health Sciences.
Many secure residencies, research fellowships, hospital positions, academic roles, or jobs in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and public health organizations worldwide.