Graham Holdings Co. Press Release: Kaplan's Insight into Medical School Admissions
1. Record Competition Ahead for Aspiring Medical Students
In a recent press release dated December 1, 2025, Kaplan, a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Co. (NYSE: GHC), unveiled results from its annual survey of medical school admissions officers. The survey reveals a concerning trend for aspiring medical students: nearly 90% of admissions officers anticipate a highly competitive admissions cycle ahead, with a significant percentage indicating that competition may intensify compared to the previous year.
2. Key Findings from the Kaplan Survey
The survey, which collected responses from admissions officers at 56 accredited medical schools across the United States and Canada between July and October 2025, highlights critical insights into the admissions landscape. Key takeaways include:
- 89% of admissions officers believe this cycle will be competitive.
- 16% expect it to be "much more competitive" than last year.
- 25% foresee it being "somewhat more competitive."
- 48% predict that competitiveness will remain consistent with the last cycle.
This surge in competition is attributed to record enrollment in MD and DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) programs, driven by the opening of new schools and the expansion of existing ones. Notably, the most competitive medical schools maintain acceptance rates below 5%, reflecting the increasing number of applicants vying for limited spots.
3. Admissions Strategies: Tips for Applicants
In light of the competitive environment, admissions officers provided valuable advice for prospective medical students. Key recommendations include:
- Rigorous Undergraduate Experience: Candidates should strive to complete at least one rigorous semester in undergraduate studies, which serves as a strong indicator of their capability to succeed in medical school.
- Personal Narrative: Applicants are encouraged to utilize every opportunity to articulate their personal stories, as written pieces can significantly influence admissions committees.
- Support Network: Establishing a reliable support network early in the application process is essential for guidance and encouragement throughout the lengthy admissions journey.
4. The Crucial Role of the MCAT
One of the most striking findings from the survey is the pivotal role of the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). A staggering 50% of admissions officers identified low MCAT scores as the "biggest application dealbreaker," surpassing other weaknesses like GPA, clinical experience, and letters of recommendation. This figure marks a notable increase in the significance of the MCAT compared to prior years.
Kaplan's executive director of pre-health programs, Rich Maraggio, emphasized the importance of a high MCAT score in the admissions process, stating:
> “A strong application starts with a high MCAT score and GPA—particularly the MCAT, which is often the first factor admissions officers review. If a score falls below the school’s typical range, they may not even look at the rest of an applicant’s credentials, no matter how stellar their letters of recommendation, personal statement, or clinical experience may be.”
5. Conclusion: Navigating the Competitive Landscape
As the admissions cycle approaches, understanding the factors that contribute to a successful application can provide pre-med students with a significant advantage. With Kaplan's insights into the admissions process, aspiring medical students are better equipped to navigate the fiercely competitive landscape ahead.
As Kaplan continues to lead in educational services and support for students, the company remains committed to its mission of expanding educational opportunities for all.
For further information about Kaplan and its offerings, interested parties are encouraged to visit kaplan.com.
