Medical School Update Letter – What it Is & How to Write One (With Examples)

Waiting for an update on your medical school application can be stressful. If you have new achievements or experiences since applying, sending a med school update letter can help strengthen your application.

An update letter for medical school is a short, professional letter that lets the admissions office know about significant updates in your academic, clinical, or research experiences. It also shows your continued interest in a particular medical school.

Not all schools accept update letters, but for those that do, sending one at the right time can make a positive difference in your chances of admission. In this guide, we’ll break down when to send an update, how to write one, and provide med school letter examples to help you stand out.

What Is a Medical School Update Letter?

A medical school update letter is a formal letter sent to a med school admissions office to provide new, relevant information about your application. It allows you to share significant updates, such as improved grades, new research projects, additional clinical experience, or leadership roles.

This letter is not the same as a letter of intent or a letter of interest. A letter of intent states that a school is your top choice, while a letter of interest expresses enthusiasm for a school without a firm commitment. An update letter for medical school, however, focuses on new accomplishments that strengthen your med school application.

Not all medical schools accept update letters, so always check a school’s application portal before sending one. When allowed, a well-written med school update letter can be a great way to keep your application strong throughout the application cycle.

What an Update Letter Can Include

• New academic achievements (e.g., improved GPA, new coursework, additional degrees).
• Clinical, volunteer, or research experiences gained after submitting the application.
• Leadership roles, awards, or publications relevant to medicine.
• New certifications or skills (e.g., EMT certification, medical scribing experience).
• Significant life events that impact your motivation for medicine.

Purpose of the Update Letter for Medical School

The medical school update letter serves as a formal way for medical school applicants to share significant updates that strengthen their application. Throughout the medical school application process, things change -- students gain new research experience, improve grades, or take on leadership roles. An update letter ensures that the admissions office is aware of these new achievements.

This letter is not just about listing accomplishments; it’s about showing growth. Admissions committees at top medical schools value candidates who continue to develop their skills, even after submitting their primary application. If a school accepts update letters, sending one at the right time can make a positive difference in how an applicant is viewed.

The key is to provide relevant updates while reaffirming enthusiasm for the particular medical school. A well-crafted med school update letter can keep an application strong and competitive.

Read: Medical School Requirements: What You Need to Get In

What’s the Difference Between an Update Letter, Letter of Intent, and Letter of Interest?

Many medical school applicants wonder which type of letter to send during the medical school application process. Below is a comparison of an update letter, letter of intent, and letter of interest to help you decide which one is most appropriate.

Use the update letter as an opportunity to express your continued interest in attending their medical school. Reaffirm your passion for medicine and emphasize your desire to be a part of their program. Highlight any specific aspects of the program that align with your goals and values. By doing so, you can demonstrate your knowledge of the program and your genuine interest in becoming a part of their community.

Sending the right letter at the right time can make a positive difference in your chances of acceptance. However, not all medical schools accept update letters, so always check a school’s application portal before sending one.

When Should You Send an Update Letter?

Timing is key when sending a med school update letter. You want to provide meaningful updates without overwhelming the admissions office with unnecessary information. A well-timed medical school letter can reinforce your commitment and show progress in your professional development.

You should send an update letter for medical school if you have:

• New academic achievements (higher GPA, completed research projects, published work).
• Clinical experience updates (medical scribing, new volunteer work, additional patient interaction).
• Leadership roles or awards that highlight your strengths.

If the medicine admissions committee accepts update letters, sending one at the right time can make a positive difference in the review process. However, not all medical schools accept updates, so always check the school’s application portal before submitting.

Also read: How Many Medical Schools Should I Apply To? A Strategic Approach, and How to Write a Powerful Personal Statement for Medical School

Best Times to Send an Update Letter

A med school update letter should be sent strategically to maximize its impact. Here are the best times to send one:

• After submitting your secondary application – If you’ve made significant updates since applying, an early letter can keep your profile strong.
• Before interview invitations – If you’re waiting for an interview day, updating the admissions office with new research projects or clinical experience can boost your chances.
• After an interview (if allowed) – While a post-interview letter is typically a letter of interest, some schools also accept update letters.
• If you’re waitlisted – A well-timed medical school letter can show continued enthusiasm and professional development while reinforcing why you’re a great fit.
• Midway through the application cycle – If you have new grades, leadership roles, or achievements, sending an update around January or February can help.

Sending a med school update letter at the right time keeps your application fresh and shows the medical school admissions team that you’re actively growing as a candidate.

When NOT to Send an Update Letter

While a med school update letter can help your application, sending one at the wrong time or without meaningful content can work against you. Here are situations when you should not send an update letter:

• If the school explicitly states they do not accept update letters – Always check the school’s application portal or contact the admissions office before sending one.
• If you don’t have significant updates – Sending a letter without major accomplishments (like a new research position or leadership role) may seem unnecessary.
• If you’ve already sent multiple updates – Repeatedly sending letters without new, relevant information can make you appear desperate or unprofessional.
• If you’re only reiterating interest – A letter of intent or letter of interest is better suited for expressing enthusiasm; an update letter should provide substantial new information.
• Too close to a decision deadline – If decisions are expected soon, your letter may not be reviewed in time to make an impact.

If your medical school letter doesn’t add value to your application, it’s better to wait until you have significant updates to share.

How to Write a Strong Medical School Update Letter

A well-crafted med school update letter should be clear, concise, and professional. It should highlight significant updates that strengthen your medical school application while reaffirming your interest in a particular medical school.

Key Tips for Writing an Effective Update Letter

• Keep it concise – One page is ideal. The admissions office receives many letters, so be direct and professional.
• Use a formal structure – Address it properly to the medicine admissions committee or a specific contact if known.
• Provide meaningful updates – Focus on research projects, new clinical experiences, academic achievements, or leadership roles.
• Tie updates to your application – Explain how these experiences make you a stronger candidate for med school.
• Reaffirm your enthusiasm – Express continued interest in the school without making it a letter of intent unless that’s your goal.

General Format & Structure

A medical school update letter should be concise (1 page max), formal, and well-structured.

Basic Structure of an Update Letter

1. Header

• Your name
• AMCAS ID (if applicable)
• Date
• Medical school’s name and address

2. Salutation

• Address the letter to the admissions committee or a specific contact (if known).

3. Opening Paragraph (Why You’re Writing)

• Clearly state your purpose (e.g., providing application updates).
• Express continued interest in the school.

4. Body Paragraph(s) (Your Updates)

• Detail specific, meaningful updates.
• Use bullet points for clarity if multiple updates exist.
• Connect updates to how they enhance your qualifications for medical school.

5. Closing Paragraph (Reaffirm Interest & Gratitude)

• Reiterate enthusiasm for the program.
• Thank the committee for their time and consideration.

6. Signature

• End with a professional closing (e.g., "Sincerely") and your full name.

Example 1 – Academic Achievement Update

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[Your Email]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

Admissions Committee

[Medical School Name]

[Medical School Address]

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to provide an update on my application to [Medical School Name] and to reaffirm my strong interest in your program. Since submitting my application, I have made significant academic progress that I believe strengthens my candidacy.

Recently, I completed additional coursework in [Relevant Science Course] and received an A, raising my science GPA from 3.65 to 3.78. In addition, I have been conducting research in neuroscience at [Institution], where I recently contributed to a study on [Research Topic], which has been submitted for publication.

These experiences have further solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine, particularly in [Specific Field, e.g., neurology]. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my passion and dedication to [Medical School Name] and would be honored to contribute to the academic and clinical community there.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to apply and hope to further discuss my application with you.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Example 2 – Clinical & Volunteer Experience Update

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[Your Email]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

Admissions Committee

[Medical School Name]

[Medical School Address]

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my continued interest in [Medical School Name] and to share recent updates that have strengthened my commitment to medicine.

Since submitting my application, I have expanded my clinical experience through a medical scribe position at [Hospital Name], where I work closely with physicians in emergency medicine. This role has enhanced my understanding of patient care, medical decision-making, and the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork.

In addition, I recently completed over 200 hours of volunteer service with [Organization], assisting underserved populations with healthcare navigation. This experience has reinforced my passion for community health and aligns well with [Medical School Name]’s mission of serving diverse communities.

I remain deeply committed to joining [Medical School Name] and believe these experiences have further prepared me to contribute meaningfully to your program. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Example 3 – Waitlist Update Letter

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[Your Email]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

Admissions Committee

[Medical School Name]

[Medical School Address]

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am grateful for the opportunity to remain on the waitlist at [Medical School Name] and want to reiterate my strong enthusiasm for your program. I would like to provide an update on recent developments in my candidacy that further demonstrate my qualifications.

Since my initial application, I have taken on a leadership role as President of the Pre-Medical Society at [University Name], organizing mentorship programs and clinical shadowing opportunities for students. In addition, my research at [Institution] has progressed, and I have been selected to present my findings at [Conference Name] in [Month].

[Medical School Name] remains my top choice, and I am prepared to accept an offer immediately should one be extended. I deeply admire the school’s commitment to [Specific Aspect of School] and am eager to contribute to the medical community at [Medical School Name].

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of joining your program.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Final Tips for Writing a Medical School Update Letter

Writing a strong med school update letter requires the right approach. Here are some important DOs and DON'Ts to keep in mind:

DOs:

• Keep it to one page – Be concise and focus on significant updates only.
• Use a professional format – Address it to the admissions office or medicine admissions committee properly.
• Include relevant updates – Highlight research projects, clinical experience, leadership roles, or academic achievements.
• Explain why your updates matter – Show how your new experiences make you a stronger candidate for med school.
• Reaffirm your interest – Express enthusiasm for the particular medical school, but don’t turn it into a letter of intent unless it’s your final choice.
• Check if the school accepts update letters – Not all medical schools accept them, so verify before sending.

DON'Ts:

• Send an update without meaningful content – If you don’t have major accomplishments, it’s better to wait.
• Repeat what’s already in your application – Focus on new achievements, not past experiences.
• Overwhelm the school with multiple updates – Stick to one well-timed medical school letter unless a major development occurs.
• Submit updates too close to decision deadlines – If decisions are coming soon, your letter may not be reviewed in time.
• Use an informal tone – This is formal communication, so keep it professional.

Final Thoughts: Strengthening Your Application with an Update Letter

A medical school update letter can be a powerful tool in the medical school application process. When used correctly, it allows you to highlight significant updates and demonstrate professional development while reinforcing your interest in a particular medical school.

If you’ve improved your academics, taken on new research projects, gained more clinical experience, or received leadership opportunities, a well-written med school update letter can help strengthen your profile. However, timing is crucial. Always check if the admissions office accepts updates, and only send one when you have meaningful information to share.

A carefully crafted med school letter not only keeps your application fresh but also reminds the medicine admissions committee of your commitment. Whether you’re still in the application cycle, waiting for an interview day, or on the waitlist, an update letter can make a positive difference in keeping you competitive.

FAQs about Medical School Update Letter

Can I send an update letter before receiving an interview invitation?

• Yes, you can send an update letter before an interview if you have significant new achievements. This can remind the admissions committee of your continued interest and highlight your recent accomplishments. However, ensure the school accepts such letters before sending.

What's the difference between a letter of interest and a letter of intent?

• A letter of interest expresses your enthusiasm for a medical school and why you're a good fit. A letter of intent goes further, stating that the school is your top choice and you commit to attending if accepted. Use a letter of intent only for your first-choice school.

How should I send my update letter?

• Most medical schools prefer receiving update letters via email. Address it to the admissions committee or a specific contact if known. Some schools may have a designated portal for such communications; always check the school's application instructions.

What if a school doesn't accept update letters?

• If a medical school explicitly states they do not accept update letters, respect their policy. Sending unsolicited materials can reflect poorly on your application. Focus on schools that welcome additional information.

Can I send multiple update letters to the same school?

• It's best to limit the number of update letters to avoid overwhelming the admissions committee. Send one well-crafted letter with significant updates. Only consider sending another if you have major new accomplishments to share.

How important are update letters for medical school applicants?

• For many medical school applicants, update letters can strengthen an application by demonstrating continued growth and commitment. If a candidate has new achievements in research, clinical work, or academics, an update letter can help them stand out in the medical school application process.