What Are the 10 Best Medical Schools to Consider in Texas?

Brief Overview

• Texas hosts 16 medical schools, offering a range of programs for aspiring physicians, with 13 providing MD degrees and three offering DO degrees.
• Many Texas medical schools are known for affordability, with lower tuition rates compared to the national average, especially for in-state students.
• Schools like Baylor College of Medicine and UT Southwestern Medical Center rank among the top in the U.S. for research and primary care.
• The Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) is used by 14 medical schools, streamlining applications for Texas residents.
• Texas medical schools emphasize diverse clinical experiences, with access to major medical centers like the Texas Medical Center in Houston.
• Admission to these schools is competitive, requiring strong GPAs, MCAT scores, and extracurricular experiences tailored to each institution’s mission.

Detailed Response

Baylor College of Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine, located in Houston, is widely regarded as one of the top medical schools in Texas and the nation. It ranks 22nd for research and 16th for primary care according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 rankings. Situated in the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex globally, Baylor offers students unparalleled clinical training opportunities. The school is affiliated with prestigious hospitals like Texas Children’s Hospital and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Its curriculum emphasizes early clinical exposure and research, with over 800,000 square feet dedicated to cutting-edge research facilities. Baylor switched to TMDSAS in 2022 to better serve Texas applicants, reflecting its commitment to local students. The school enrolls approximately 186 students annually, maintaining a selective acceptance rate of around 4%. Tuition is relatively affordable due to public funding partnerships, even as a private institution. Students benefit from a faculty that includes 14 Institute of Medicine members and seven National Academy of Sciences members. Admission requires a minimum GPA of around 3.8 and an MCAT score averaging 518.

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas is a powerhouse in medical education, ranked 25th for research and 16th for primary care by U.S. News in 2025. It trains about 230 students per class, offering access to top-tier hospitals like Parkland Memorial and UT Southwestern University Hospitals. The school receives $554 million annually in research funding, supporting projects in cancer, neuroscience, and genetics. Its curriculum balances academic rigor with clinical excellence, preparing students for competitive residencies nationwide. UT Southwestern emphasizes early patient interaction, ensuring students gain practical experience from the outset. The faculty-to-student ratio is 1.6:1, fostering close mentorship opportunities. In-state tuition is approximately $17,872, while out-of-state tuition is $26,125, making it cost-effective compared to national averages. Admission is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate below 10% and an average MCAT score of 515. The school’s affiliations with nationally ranked hospitals enhance its appeal for students seeking diverse clinical exposure. Applicants must submit through TMDSAS, aligning with most Texas medical schools.

McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston

McGovern Medical School, part of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, is the largest medical school in Texas, enrolling around 240 students per class. It ranks in Tier 2 for both research and primary care in U.S. News’ 2025 rankings. Located in the Texas Medical Center, it offers extensive clinical rotation options at facilities like Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. The curriculum features a pass/fail grading system in the first semester to ease the academic transition. McGovern receives $319 million annually in research funding, focusing on areas like infectious diseases and cardiovascular innovations. The faculty-to-student ratio is 1.8:1, with 1,789 full-time faculty members. In-state tuition is $21,083, and out-of-state tuition is $28,738, reflecting its affordability. The school emphasizes early clinical exposure, allowing students to work with diverse patient populations. Admission requires a minimum of 90 undergraduate credit hours and an MCAT score taken within the last five years. The application deadline is November 1, with a $220 fee via TMDSAS.

Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine

The Long School of Medicine at UT Health San Antonio ranks 36th for primary care and 50th for research in U.S. News’ 2025 rankings. It trains approximately 225 students per class, focusing on serving South Texas communities. The curriculum emphasizes early clinical exposure, with students working at University Hospital and the South Texas Veterans Health Care System. The school excels in research on Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and cancer, with its cardio-oncology program recognized as a Center of Excellence. In-state tuition is $17,581, and out-of-state tuition is $34,763, with an application fee of $150. The faculty-to-student ratio is strong, supporting personalized education. Long School’s mission includes addressing health disparities in underserved regions, making it ideal for students interested in community-focused medicine. Admission requires a competitive GPA, typically around 3.8, and an MCAT score averaging 512. The application process uses TMDSAS, with a deadline of October 1. Its location in San Antonio offers a blend of urban and cultural experiences for students.

Texas A&M University College of Medicine

Texas A&M College of Medicine, based in Bryan, ranks in Tier 2 for research and Tier 1 for primary care in U.S. News’ 2025 rankings. It trains about 200 students across multiple campuses, including Dallas, Houston, and Round Rock. The school emphasizes rural and population health, with specialized tracks in military medicine and engineering-medicine (EnMed). Clinical rotations occur at prestigious facilities like the Lyndon Baines Johnson General Hospital. In-state tuition is $17,968, and out-of-state tuition is $31,069, with a $60 application fee. The faculty-to-student ratio is 3:1, supported by 2,476 full-time faculty. Texas A&M’s research institutes, such as the Cardiovascular Research Institute, enhance its academic offerings. Admission requires a strong academic record and an MCAT score taken within five years. The school’s focus on interdisciplinary education appeals to students interested in innovative medical approaches. Applications are submitted via TMDSAS by November 1.

University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston is the oldest medical school in Texas, established in 1891. It ranks highly for its unique curriculum, which uses a pass/fail system for the first two years to reduce student stress. UTMB offers clinical experiences with diverse populations, including incarcerated individuals and aerospace medicine through a NASA partnership. The school enrolls about 230 students per class, with clinical rotations across Galveston and other Texas locations. In-state tuition is competitive, and the school is known for affordability. UTMB’s research focuses on infectious diseases and public health, supported by significant funding. The faculty-to-student ratio ensures robust mentorship opportunities. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.7 and an MCAT score around 510. The application process uses TMDSAS, with a deadline of October 1. UTMB’s historical significance and innovative programs make it a strong choice for medical students.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine

Located in Lubbock, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine was the first U.S. medical school to offer an accelerated three-year program. It enrolls about 180 students annually, focusing on community-oriented medical education. The curriculum supports joint-degree programs and emphasizes rural health. Research areas include cancer and neuroscience, with substantial funding support. In-state tuition is affordable, aligning with Texas’ cost-effective medical education. The faculty-to-student ratio is competitive, fostering close academic relationships. Admission requires 90 undergraduate credit hours, including specific science courses, and an MCAT score within five years. The school’s mission prioritizes serving diverse communities, particularly in West Texas. Applications are submitted via TMDSAS by October 1. Its innovative approach and regional focus make it appealing for students committed to rural medicine.

University of North Texas Health Science Center Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine

The Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM) at the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth is a top osteopathic school, ranked highly for primary care. It has the highest acceptance rate in Texas at 12.4%, making it less competitive than others. TCOM trains about 230 students per class, with 60% of graduates entering primary care fields. The school emphasizes rural medicine and underserved populations, offering programs like the Hispanic Wellness Fair. Tuition is affordable, particularly for in-state students. The faculty-to-student ratio supports personalized education. Admission requires a GPA of around 3.59 and an MCAT score averaging 505. TCOM uses AACOMAS for applications, with a focus on holistic review. Its community-oriented mission appeals to students interested in osteopathic medicine. The application deadline is typically October 1.

University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School

Dell Medical School, located in Austin, is one of Texas’ newest medical schools, established in 2016. It is unranked by U.S. News due to its recent founding but is noted for its innovative curriculum. The school focuses on 21st-century health challenges, emphasizing leadership and community impact. It enrolls about 50 students per class, fostering a close-knit academic environment. Clinical training occurs at UT Health Austin and other local facilities. In-state tuition is $150, with an application fee of $150 via TMDSAS. The curriculum includes early clinical exposure and interdisciplinary learning. Admission requires a competitive GPA and MCAT score, typically around 512. Dell’s small class size and modern approach appeal to students seeking a forward-thinking education. The application deadline is October 1.

TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine

The Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine at Texas Christian University (TCU) and the University of North Texas Health Science Center, located in Fort Worth, opened in 2024. It is the only Texas medical school using AMCAS, with an application deadline of November 1. The school enrolls about 60 students per class, emphasizing a Physician Development Coaching Program. Its curriculum fosters personal and professional growth through mentorship and teamwork. Tuition is higher than public schools, reflecting its private status. The faculty-to-student ratio supports individualized attention. Admission requires a strong academic record and an MCAT score within five years. The school’s mission focuses on producing empathetic physicians for diverse communities. Its innovative approach and small class size make it a unique option. Applications are competitive, with an acceptance rate around 7%.

Admission Requirements and Strategies

Gaining admission to Texas medical schools is highly competitive, with most schools having acceptance rates below 10%. A strong academic record, typically a GPA of 3.8 or higher, is essential across all programs. MCAT scores generally need to be above 510, with top schools like Baylor requiring around 518. Most schools use TMDSAS, which requires a 5000-character personal statement and two additional essays. Applicants must complete 90 undergraduate credit hours, including courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and English. Extracurricular activities, such as research and clinical volunteering, significantly enhance applications. Schools like UT Southwestern and Baylor prioritize candidates with research experience due to their funding levels. Holistic review processes consider leadership, community service, and alignment with each school’s mission. Texas residents benefit from priority admission at public schools, while out-of-state applicants face stricter criteria. Thorough preparation, including mock interviews and advisor consultations, can improve chances of acceptance.

Application Process via TMDSAS

The Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) is used by 14 of Texas’ 16 medical schools, streamlining the application process. Applicants submit a personal statement, activities entries, and two additional essays, each with specific character limits. The personal statement is 5000 characters, slightly shorter than AMCAS and AACOMAS statements. The application fee is $215, with deadlines typically on October 1 or November 1. TMDSAS requires transcripts, MCAT scores, and letters of recommendation. Applicants should tailor their essays to reflect each school’s mission, such as rural health for Texas A&M or research for Baylor. The process includes a match system, where applicants rank schools, and offers are made in February. Early submission is critical to secure interviews, as Texas schools receive fewer applications than national counterparts. Applicants should verify course prerequisites, as some schools, like TTUHSC, require biochemistry. Understanding TMDSAS nuances can significantly boost application success.

Tuition and Financial Considerations

Texas medical schools are among the most affordable in the U.S., particularly for in-state residents. In-state tuition ranges from $17,581 at Long School to $21,083 at McGovern, compared to the national median of $42,000 for public schools. Out-of-state tuition is higher, typically $26,000 to $34,000, but still competitive nationally. Baylor, a private school, offers reduced tuition for Texas residents due to public funding. Financial aid, scholarships, and loan programs are available at most schools. For example, UT Southwestern provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students. Applicants should evaluate cost alongside program fit, as affordability can reduce long-term debt. Physicians in Texas earn an average of $274,650 annually, suggesting strong return on investment. Students should also consider living costs, with cities like Houston and Dallas being more expensive than Lubbock or Bryan. Thorough financial planning is essential when choosing a school.

Clinical Training Opportunities

Texas medical schools offer robust clinical training, often within world-class medical centers. The Texas Medical Center in Houston, home to Baylor and McGovern, provides access to diverse patient populations and specialized fields. UT Southwestern’s affiliations with Parkland Memorial and Children’s Medical Center Dallas ensure broad clinical exposure. Long School students work with underserved communities in South Texas, gaining experience in primary care. UTMB’s unique rotations include aerospace medicine and care for incarcerated populations. Texas A&M’s multiple campuses allow rotations in urban and rural settings, enhancing versatility. Schools like TCOM focus on primary care, with community-based clinical programs. Early clinical exposure is a hallmark of Texas curricula, starting in the first or second year. Students benefit from faculty mentorship during rotations, preparing them for residencies. These opportunities make Texas schools appealing for hands-on learning.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of Texas medical schools, particularly at Baylor and UT Southwestern. Baylor’s 20th-highest NIH funding nationally supports projects in pediatrics and HIV/AIDS treatment. UT Southwestern’s $554 million in research funding fuels advancements in cancer and neuroscience. McGovern’s $319 million supports infectious disease and cardiovascular research. Long School leads in Alzheimer’s and diabetes studies, with a recognized cardio-oncology program. Texas A&M’s institutes, like the Cardiovascular Research Institute, offer interdisciplinary opportunities. Students at UTMB engage in infectious disease research, leveraging the school’s historical expertise. Even smaller schools like TTUHSC in Lubbock provide research opportunities in rural health. Most schools encourage student participation in research, enhancing residency applications. Access to cutting-edge facilities and faculty mentorship makes Texas a research hub.

Osteopathic Medical Schools

Texas has three osteopathic (DO) schools: TCOM, University of the Incarnate Word (UIW), and Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. TCOM, in Fort Worth, is the most established, with a strong primary care focus and a 12.4% acceptance rate. UIW, in San Antonio, uses AACOMAS and emphasizes holistic care for underserved populations. Sam Houston, in Conroe, is newer, focusing on community health. DO programs require slightly lower GPAs (around 3.59) and MCAT scores (around 505) than MD programs. Osteopathic curricula include training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, alongside standard medical education. These schools appeal to students interested in primary care or holistic approaches. Clinical rotations occur in diverse settings, from urban hospitals to rural clinics. Admission is competitive, with a focus on community service and patient-centered care. Applications for UIW and Sam Houston use AACOMAS, while TCOM uses TMDSAS.

Location and Lifestyle Considerations

Texas medical schools are spread across diverse regions, from urban Houston to rural Lubbock. Houston’s Texas Medical Center offers a fast-paced environment with high living costs. Dallas, home to UT Southwestern, balances urban amenities with cultural attractions. San Antonio’s Long School provides a vibrant, culturally rich setting with moderate costs. Austin’s Dell Medical School appeals to students seeking a dynamic, tech-forward city. Galveston’s UTMB offers a coastal lifestyle, ideal for those preferring a quieter setting. Lubbock’s TTUHSC suits students interested in rural medicine and lower living costs. Fort Worth’s TCOM provides a suburban feel with access to Dallas. Each location influences clinical exposure and lifestyle, impacting school choice. Students should consider proximity to family, cost of living, and preferred practice environment when applying.

Specialized Programs and Tracks

Many Texas medical schools offer specialized programs to align with career goals. Texas A&M’s EnMed track integrates engineering and medicine, ideal for innovation-focused students. UTMB’s aerospace medicine residency prepares students for careers in space and aviation medicine. TTUHSC’s accelerated family medicine track targets rural health needs. Baylor’s research-intensive programs suit students aiming for academic medicine. TCOM’s focus on primary care and osteopathic principles appeals to holistic care enthusiasts. UT Southwestern offers medical physics training for diagnostic and treatment advancements. These programs allow students to tailor their education to specific fields. Applicants should research each school’s offerings to ensure alignment with their interests. Specialized tracks often enhance residency and career prospects.

Community Engagement and Service

Texas medical schools emphasize community service, reflecting the state’s diverse healthcare needs. TCOM’s Hispanic Wellness Fair and Cowtown Marathon promote community health. Long School’s Student-Faculty Collaborative Practices address underserved populations in South Texas. Baylor’s partnerships with local organizations enhance community impact. UTMB’s work with incarcerated populations provides unique service opportunities. Texas A&M’s rural health initiatives train students to serve remote areas. Dell Medical School focuses on improving local health outcomes in Austin. These programs develop skills in cultural competency and public health. Students committed to community service find these schools particularly appealing. Engagement opportunities strengthen applications and prepare students for patient-centered careers.

Choosing the Right School

Selecting a medical school in Texas requires evaluating academic fit, location, and career goals. Baylor and UT Southwestern suit research-oriented students with competitive profiles. McGovern and Long School offer robust clinical training in urban settings. Texas A&M and TTUHSC cater to those interested in rural or primary care. TCOM and other DO schools appeal to holistic medicine enthusiasts. Dell’s innovative curriculum suits students seeking modern approaches. Tuition, acceptance rates, and clinical opportunities should guide decisions. Applicants must align their applications with each school’s mission, emphasizing relevant experiences. Visiting campuses or attending virtual sessions can clarify fit. A well-researched choice ensures a fulfilling medical education.