Xavier University School of Medicine FAQ's

Where can I ask specific questions regarding your program?

Click here to visit the Discussion Board where you can ask questions from other students and admissions staff.

How do I request information about Xavier University?

If you would like to request general information about Xavier University School of Medicine, please visit http://www.xusom.com or by contacting an Admissions Representative at (866) 987-6601

What is the average GPA of accepted students?

The typical GPA of an accepted student is 3.2. Many accepted students have been able to overcome earlier academic struggles with strong performances in later college years or in post-baccalaureate programs. As well, Xavier accepts non-traditional students who may have completed their undergraduate degrees a number of years ago.

Is the MCAT score required for admission?

An MCAT score is not required for admission. If you have taken the MCAT you are encouraged to submit your score

How much does tuition cost per semester?

The cost of tuition can be found on the school website. Click here ---> Tuition

How long does it take to complete the Pre-Med and/or MD programs at your school?

Pre Med: 4 Semesters, (16 Months)

Students with good academic standing will transition into the basic science program at the completion of the pre-medical program.

MD Program

  • Basic Sciences: 5 Semesters, ( 20 Months )
  • Clinical Sciences: 6 Semesters, ( 18 Months )

The Basic Science program consists of five 15-week semesters, for a total of 75 weeks. Students who are then able to pass the USMLE STEP 1 will continue into the Clinical Sciences program consisting of 6 semesters, for a total of 72 weeks. Students in good academic standing will complete their M.D. within four years, provided they have not lost time by repeating a failed semester or failing and having to retake a licensing exam.

How many students are in each class?

At Xavier University we believe that the student always come first. We intentionally keep our class sizes limited to 25-30 students per class. This allows for individualized and interactive instruction for each student, enabling a working relationship with faculty.

Which hospitals have an affiliation with Xavier Aruba?

A list of rotations can be found on the school website or by clicking here --> Clinical Rotations

Do I need a Bachelor's degree to apply to the MD program?

You do not need a Bachelor's degree to apply; however, we do require at least 90 credits of college coursework. To be considered for the MD program applicants must have completed all Pre Medical requirements.

What tests will I need to take to become licensed in the United States?

To be licensed to practice medicine in the United States, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) requires a student to pass the United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE).

The USMLE consists of three steps, the first two of which are taken by students while still in medical school. Students must take and pass USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 in order to graduate. Step 2 consists of two components: a Clinical Skills (CS) exam and a Clinical Knowledge (CK) exam. The final step for licensing, Step 3 of the USMLE, is taken after graduation, during or at the conclusion of residency training. Xavier University students and graduates are eligible to sit for these exams.

Who is selected for an Admissions interview?

Individuals are selected for an interview based on who the Admissions Committee considers to have the aptitude for success as not only a medical student but also a practicing doctor. The Admissions Officers are in place to assist each student both before and after the interview process.

What is the deadline to apply for admission?

Xavier University requires your completed application packet to be submitted 45 days before the beginning of each semester. XUSOM accepts applications continuously all year for the September, January, and May semesters.

What is the make-up of the student body?

More than 60% of our students are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Roughly 35% are Canadian, with the remaining percentage hailing from other nations

How many semesters are there per year?

Xavier University operates on a trimester system, so there are three (3) semesters per year. The fall term begins in September, the spring term begins in January and the summer term begins in May. Students are awarded a break of approximately two (2) to three (3) weeks between each semester. Students are expected to be enrolled in all three semesters per year.

Where should I send my transcripts and recommendation letters?

Please mail your transcripts and recommendation letters to our New York office at the following address:
Xavier University School of Medicine
1000 Woodbury Road,
Woodbury, NY 11797
ATTN: Admissions Department
For assistance please contact the Admissions Department at (866) 987-6601

Can I defer my admission once I am accepted?

Prior to the start of classes, students admitted to a specific semester may request to defer their admission to a subsequent semester. This is limited to no more than the next three semesters. Those who do not begin enrollment during that period are considered to have deactivated their application and must re-apply for admission. Deferral of admission is granted on a case-by-case basis. Request for deferrals must be made to an Admissions Representative. The admissions representative will then present the deferral to the Admissions Committee for approval. Students deferring to a future semester must meet all the requirements in effect for that semester.

Do I need volunteer experience as part of my application?

Exposure to clinical medicine before making the decision to apply to medical school is important. Volunteering in a hospital or other clinical setting is ideal; however, the Admissions Committee recognizes that many students must work while attending college, or choose to be heavily involved in extracurricular activities. In addition, a great number of students have extensive research or patient care backgrounds and have gained exposure to clinical medicine and science through these means. All of these experiences are considered when evaluating the extent of an applicant's volunteer activities.

What prerequisite courses are required for admission?

In order to be considered for the MD program, students must complete all Pre-Medical requirements. The courses can be found on the school website or by clicking here Pre-Medical Courses

What is a personal statement and what should it include?

A personal statement is optional when applying for admission. It is a one-page essay telling the admissions committee who you are, why you are pursuing a career in medicine, and what sets you apart from other applicants. The statement should include experiences and events that have shaped your values, personality, and goals.

How many letters of recommendation are required?

Two (2) letters of recommendation are required, though up to five (5) will be evaluated.
Letters of recommendation may be written by professionals, employers, or medical doctors. Examples would include a letter written by a college professor or advisor, an employer who has been directly involved in your employment or volunteer status, or someone in the medical field who knows of your pursuit for a MD degree. All letters must be sent directly from the writer to Xavier University including their contact information. Recommendation letters should not be older than 12 months.

Are scholarships available?

Xavier University has a scholarship program available for eligible candidates. Please contact your Admissions representative for details.

What is the student to teacher ratio? 25:1

Where can I send my tuition payment?

All tuition payments and fees must be mailed to the New York office
Xavier University School of Medicine
1000 Woodbury Road,
Woodbury, NY 11797
ATTN: Accounting Office

Is there a required seat deposit?

A $1,000 non-refundable seat deposit is required for United States & Canadian students.

How can I be put in contact with a graduate of Xavier University?

Please contact the Registrar's Office and/or the Student Government Association for contact information of a current student or Alumnus.

What student organizations or associations exist on campus in Aruba?

Student Government Association, Alumni Association, American Medical Student Association

What qualifies as a final official transcript?

Transcripts that are mailed directly from the institution, being in a sealed envelope, with a stamped institutional seal are considered to be official.

How much is the application fee?

The application fee is only $75.00 This can be paid by any credit card, Money Order, or personal check drafted at a United States bank.

How can I register to attend an information seminar?

All seminars are posted on the school website with the ability to register online. For additional information contact the Admissions Department for more details.

How do I request more information about Xavier University?

To request additional information on our campus please contact the admissions department for more details

Can I apply to the MD program if I have not completed all the Pre-Medical requirements?

Students who lack Pre-Medical courses may still apply. However, acceptance to the program may be provisional pending successful completion of the required pre-med courses.

Who will help me find an apartment?

The Housing Department in Aruba will assist you in acquiring housing.

What is the cost of housing on Aruba?

On average, fully-furnished housing prices start in the range of $650 for a studio/one bedroom apartment and up to $1200 - $1500 for a 3-4 bedroom house (please note: the ability for roommates can greatly decrease overall living expenses).

Does Xavier use real cadavers for education and training?

Students dissect real cadavers in Gross Anatomy, and this is done at the 300 bed hospital in Aruba. In addition we use plasticized cadavers and a numerous selection of lab props for additional hands on learning.

Can I schedule a visit to Aruba so I can take a tour of the campus?

Yes, arrangements can be made for you and your family to take a tour of the campus. Please contact the Admissions Department for more details.