As a prospective applicant, I’m sure you are wondering what the admissions process is REALLY like. Well, the truth is it’s very straightforward… so stop worrying, you’ll be fine.

First off, get your stuff in early. That means AMCAS app and all secondary materials. In particular, never underestimate a college professor’s tendency to procrastinate—make sure you request letters of recommendation far in advance. Late LORs are a big hassle for the admissions staff. Typically, most applicants have submitted their applications by November 1, a few weeks ahead of the November 15 deadline. Supplemental materials are due January1, but travel in South Dakota is much easier in the fall, so do you really want to wait???

The interviewing season kicks off in September and is in full swing by October. Usually invitations to interview are made within 2 – 4 weeks of an application being complete, with a quicker turnaround earlier in the fall. Things are wrapping up in late January, but it varies. The admissions committee meets monthly November through February. You will receive an email letting you know when your application has been considered.

Acceptance letters are mailed after each adcom meeting, although many applicants are “pended.” Only non-residents with no ties to South Dakota are rejected right away. In February, all pended and any new applicants are reconsidered and the remaining seats in the class are filled. The past few years around 35 individuals have been put on the alternate list. It’s hard to say how many alternates will ultimately be admitted. It depends on the number of students withdrawing from the class, which varies.

So I’ve been rejected… now what??? Well, Dr. Bunger (the Dean of Student Affairs and a very nice guy by the way) invites rejected applicants to schedule an appointment with him to discuss ways to strengthen a future application. Many take advantage of this and are successful. Sometimes there are a few who don’t meet with him and yet also are successful. But if you’re going to go through the whole stressful process again, why not maximize your chances???

A word about financial aid…

FYI, do your taxes EARLY so you can get your FAFSA in on time. Typically the FAFSA deadline is mid-February. Supplemental SSOM-specific aid materials are due around the end of March. The financial aid committee will send out award letters sometime in late April or early May. The exact dates change year to year.

Understand that some of the financial aid packages require your parents’ info, even if you are married and have children, etc. Yes, I know this seems ridiculous, but it’s how the system works. Meeting the FAFSA deadline isn’t always easy for parents, especially for persons who own businesses and such. In this circumstance, you might guesstimate based on tax forms from previous years and make corrections later.

Remember to also research outside financial aid resources. For the militarily inclined, the armed services offer some spectacular packages with excellent salaries and benefits—no heavy combat required. In addition, there are loan repayment incentives at the state and federal levels for individuals interested in clinical research and/ or serving underrepresented groups (National Health Service Corps, for example.)

So that’s admissions and financial aid in a nutshell. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Student Affairs… they are VERY helpful!!!