11 prompts in the 2025-2026 cycle
Describe a new hobby or activity you enjoy in your free time outside of school.
Discuss a current unanswered question in biomedical research that you find particularly interesting and what research you would like to see done to address it.
If you have (or expect to have) a year or more between college graduation and medical school matriculation, describe both your completed activities and anticipated plans.
Why did you choose your undergraduate major? How does the subject appeal to you?
Do you or an immediate family member have an existing relationship with Feinberg School of Medicine? (Y/N)
The Feinberg School of Medicine values the totality of our students’ experiences. As everyone has their own narrative, please describe how your unique experiences would enrich the Northwestern community.
Please provide a brief statement explaining why you are specifically applying to the Northwestern University Medical Scientist Training Program.
Name a scientific paper that you have read recently that had a strong impact on you and describe what impact it had.
What is the most gratifying research experience you have had to date and why? What was the greatest obstacle you had to overcome in research and how did you overcome it?
Feinberg’s mission is to train future leaders who will serve their patients, communities and society. Explain how specific elements of the FSM integrated curriculum will support your future goals in medicine and how FSM, located in Chicago, will help you achieve these professional aspirations.
If you are reapplying this cycle, please address steps taken to enhance your application. If not a reapplicant, please enter "N/A".