Alternate Status

While an alternate, the Committee on Admissions encourages the submission of updates to your file. Continued specific interest in our program and any updated accomplishments are of interest to the Committee. Please update via the online application portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How large is the alternate pool? Where do I stand?

The number of students accepted from the alternate pool varies from year to year. We are unable to tell you how many students are included in this pool. Please know that every year alternates are offered acceptances.

We are unable to give you any indication as to where you are in the alternate pool.

What is the timeline for decision-making for those in the alternate pool?

While offers of acceptance from the alternate pool do not occur until spring, the Committee on Admissions will begin review of the pool in late winter. The alternate pool will begin to be reduced in size at this time.

Beginning in January alternates will receive instruction on how to continue their position in the alternate pool, as well as indicate their continued interest in being accepted to the GW MD program. Updates submitted to the portal are welcome at any time.

As per the Traffic Rules for Applicants set out by the AAMC, by April 30, all applicants holding multiple acceptance offers or seats must hold only one acceptance. Beginning this date, GW can access information (by name) for those with a GW accept or alternate status. Most of the movement for alternates takes place in April and may continue until mid-summer.

How will I know if my status has changed?

If your status changes, you will be contacted by phone immediately. Please be sure that your most current contact information (including phone number(s), email and mailing addresses) is on file with AMCAS.

I'm concerned that GW may be unable to reach me via phone for a period of time due to travel or other circumstances, what should I do?

Please notify us of your plans via email at medadmit@gwu.edu. Include the dates when you will be unavailable and, if possible, the contact information for an alternative person who you’ve elected to make the decision on your behalf. Please include in the email, the person’s full name, their relationship to you, their contact information, and a statement saying that you designate this person to make the decision on your behalf.

It’s getting close to the start of the next cycle and I haven’t heard a final decision? Should I reapply?

Submitting an application for the next cycle while in the alternate pool will have absolutely no negative impact on the decision for a possible acceptance. If you are thinking about reapplying, we recommend that you proceed with the application process, as it is very difficult to give you an indication of movement in the alternate pool. Please note that the Committee on Admissions and the Office of Admissions do not provide feedback or counseling to applicants.