Applying to medical school can sometimes seem a bit overwhelming. Applicants often have many questions prior to and during the application and admissions process. At MSIH, we try to make the medical school application process as seamless as possible for applicants. While most information is available online, here are some of the most frequently asked questions received by our office:

Q: May I submit an application if I have not completed all the required coursework?

A: Yes. If coursework will be completed prior to matriculation at MSIH, we encourage you to submit your application as early as possible. There is a section on the application to list all upcoming and in progress coursework.

Q: May I submit an application if I have not yet taken the MCAT exam?

A: Absolutely. When submitting an application prior to receiving an MCAT score, note the expected test date in the field where MCAT information is requested. After release of your score, forward your AAMC number and verification code to our Admissions office. Applicant’s files are not reviewed by a member of our admissions committee until all requested items are received.

Q: Where are interviews conducted?

A: Applicants invited to interview must do so in person at either the MSIH New York Admissions Office or at our Beer Sheva office, where they typically meet individually with two members of our admissions committee.

Q: What is the average MSIH class size?

A: MSIH classes typically are between 30 and 40 students, enhancing the educational experience of our students. We take a special interest in each of our students and look forward to their successful completion of the program.

Q: Do I need to speak Hebrew to attend MSIH?

A: MSIH courses are taught in English. Students are evaluated upon arrival in Israel for their Hebrew proficiency and placed in Hebrew language classes to learn basic Hebrew and medical terminology needed for clinical work in Israel. It is not uncommon for students to arrive without any prior knowledge of Hebrew.

Q: Are fourth year electives completed in Israel?

A: Students return to the US to complete their electives. Affiliations at Columbia University Medical Center, Hofstra University and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai ensure seats are saved for our students. Full time electives coordinators in both Israel and NY assist our students in obtaining electives at prestigious institutions around the country.

Q: Will I be able to obtain a US residency after completing MSIH? May I complete residency in Israel?

A: MSIH is uniquely positioned to provide its graduates the opportunity to complete residency either in the US or Israel. Our 2018 match rate for students seeking US residency was 100%. Students who wish to complete residency in Israel easily join the Israeli students at Ben-Gurion University’s Joyce & Irving Goldman Medical School to complete the additional coursework required.

Q. What support systems are in place to assist MSIH students?

A: Immediately upon admission to the program, applicants not only become MSIH students, but join the MSIH family. Prior to matriculation, incoming students are put in contact with current students individually and on group conference calls. Staff in New York and Israel guide the incoming students through the registration process and students are immediately in contact with student liaisons upon arrival in Israel. Students are assigned host families so they will experience how the local population lives and will get a home cooked meal while at school. A research coordinator and academic advisors are available for each grade to address each student’s unique interests. All students meet with the MSIH Director who takes an interest in the success of all students.

Q: Is it safe to go to school in Israel? Beer Sheva?

A: Safety and security are paramount in Israel and at our beautiful campus. BGU is in communication with the Israeli Office of Homeland Security in real time and should a situation arise requiring additional security measures, they are immediately shared with our students. The 2018 United Nations World Happiness Report which ranks 156 countries happiness levels places Israel in 11th place. With some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, historical sights and modern infrastructures, students are encouraged to explore not only Beer Sheva, but the rest of the country. With a train stop on our campus, access throughout the country is minutes away.

Do you have more questions? Reach out to our admissions team for a consultation. We are here for you as you navigate the application process!

Prepared by: Beth A. Chesir, MSIH Assistant Director Admissions and External Affairs