michigan state application essay prompts

Choose Your Test

• Search Blogs By Category
• College Admissions
• AP and IB Exams
• GPA and Coursework

5 Tips for Writing the Michigan State Admissions Essay

College Essays

So you've decided to apply to Michigan State University. You've made a great choice—not only is it one of the top public universities in the nation, 94% of undergraduates land jobs or go onto graduate school after graduation ! Additionally, more than 25 of its undergraduate programs are ranked in the top 20 nationally , including the best supply chain management and logistics program in the country. And like most top schools, the MSU application requires you to submit an application essay.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about writing and submitting the Michigan State admissions essay, including:

• A discussion of the Michigan State admissions standards,
• Where to find the Michigan State application, and
• Five tips to write a Michigan State admissions essay that will get you in.

So let's get started!

What Is the Michigan State Admissions Essay?

The Michigan State essay is a required (and important!) element of your Michigan State application. The essay is basically a personal statement designed to help admissions counselors get to know you better. Sure, they'll see your transcript and test scores, but Michigan State also wants to know who you are beyond the data, too.

The essay is also important because Michigan State has an acceptance rate of 83% , which means that 83 out of 100 students who apply to MSU are admitted each year. T hat means your essay can make a difference in an admissions counselor's decision-making process. (If you're not familiar with the school's admissions requirements, be sure to check out this comprehensive guide on Michigan State's admittance policies. )

As we mentioned earlier, you'll submit one finished essay as part of your complete Michigan State application packet. As of 2021, Michigan State allows prospective students to submit all their application materials—including the MSU essay—either via their own online application system or via the Common App , which are online platforms that let you fill out one application and submit it to multiple universities.

Luckily for you, Michigan State doesn't require you to fill out an additional application supplement. In other words, the Michigan State admissions essay is the same essay you'll fill out for either the Common App or the Coalition App! But that also means that you only have one chance to help MSU's admissions counselors determine whether you're a good fit for the university.

Now that you have a general idea about what the Michigan State admissions essay is and how to submit it, here are three final, important things to keep in mind:

#1: MSU doesn't favor one application over the other. They treat their application system and the Common App equally in their decision-making process. 

#2: You can only submit one application per academic year. So if you have both applications filled out, send one or the other—not both. Sending two applications can cause errors in the admissions system and lead to your application getting rejected.

#3: The Common App and the Coalition App have different prompts. Each application asks slightly different questions, so it's important to pick the application that allows you to write the strongest essay.

Now it's time to take a closer look at the different Common App and Coalition App prompts and give you some general tips for picking the best MSU essay prompt for you.

The Common App Essay Prompts

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

4.Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

For the Common App, you're given seven essay prompts and asked to answer one. The prompts themselves fall into a few general categories:

• Overcoming a challenge
• Solving a problem
• Showing personal growth
• Sharing your interests and personality

This list gives you a general sense for what admissions counselors expect to see in your essay. You will likely only discuss one or two of these in a prompt, so don't worry about having to address every single category in your response.

Having to choose just one prompt can be pretty overwhelming—it's hard to know where to start! Here are some things you can do to make picking a topic easier.

• Read through this guide that explains each prompt . Getting an expert explanation on each prompt can help you pick one that works for you.
• Eliminate the prompts you don't like—or don't understand. Go with your gut...as long as your gut doesn't make you cross every option off your list.
• Consider the categories. Take a look at the general categories we have listed above, and think back to the essays you did well on in school. Is there a category you feel most comfortable writing about? If so, pick a prompt that aligns with that topic.

Keep in mind that no matter the topic you choose, the Common App limits your response to 250 to 650 words. It's harder to write shorter responses, so make sure you plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to write a great essay.

Image courtesy of Joel Dinda

5 Tips for Writing a Killer Michigan State Admissions Essay

By now you've had a chance to consider—and hopefully choose!—the perfect MSU essay prompt. Here are our top five tips for writing a Michigan State University essay that makes you stand out from the crowd!

• Be authentic. Jim Cotter, the Director of Undergraduate Admissions for Michigan State University, says being authentic is the most important element of a strong Michigan State essay. He explains, "We don't want a student to create something that they're not. We want them to tell us who they are, what their real experiences are, and how they've developed as an individual because of those experiences." In other words, tell the truth...and be yourself!
• Tell a story. To write a stand-out MSU essay examples are key. That's why it's important to use storytelling to help answer the prompt! For example, if you want to talk about a time you gave back to the community, tell a story about a specific event (like shaving your head for charity)!
• Be descriptive. This ties into our "tell a story" tip above. Details are what make a story come alive! If you're writing about a challenging time in your life, do more than just tell the reader what happened. Show them where you were, what you saw, and how you felt by using descriptive language.
• Write long, edit short. Staying within word limits can be hard. That's why we recommend you don't worry about essay length when you write your first draft. Just focus on getting your answer down on paper even if you go hundreds of words over the maximum length. Then you can focus on whittling your essay down until you land in the word count sweet spot.
• Embrace the 3 Rs: re-read, revise, and review. Never, ever submit the first draft of your essay! Even the best writers in the world revise their work multiple times. Also, don't be afraid to ask your parents and teachers to give you feedback on your work. They'll be able to give you a new, fresh perspective on your work!

Your Next Steps

If you're looking to beef up your résumé to make sure you're one of MSU's ideal candidates, try fitting some community service into your schedule. Here's a list of the nine best places to do community service , and here's a discussion of how volunteering benefits both your college application and your life!

One key piece of your application are letters of recommendation, so you need to ask for those as soon as possible. Check out this guide that goes over how—and when!—to ask for letters of recommendation.

Now that you're ready to write your essays, get the skinny on how to write the perfect application essay introduction.

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Most Searched

Common questions, essay questions.

As students consider how they will contribute to the University of Michigan campus community and respond to question and essay prompts, they may wish to highlight things that had an impact on them such as: their involvement in clubs, competing as a student-athlete, studying abroad, going on a mission trip, being engaged in debate, participating in the performing or visual arts, having alumni ties to the institution, making a difference in their community, serving in a leadership capacity, being an entrepreneur, and many others. 

University of Michigan Questions

• Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.  (Required for all applicants; minimum 100 words/maximum 300 words)
• Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (Required for all applicants; minimum 100 words /maximum 550 words)

The Common Application Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don't feel obligated to do so. (The application won't accept a response shorter than 250 words.)

• Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Transfer Applicants:   If you are a transfer student, please view the Transfer Essay Questions webpage  for additional required essays.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write the Michigan State University Essays 2018-2019

Located in East Lansing, Michigan State University is a large public institution with over 50,000 enrolled students. Michigan State offers an education focused on bettering the common good and everyday life, while also providing research and study-abroad programs in popular fields such as business, agriculture, and engineering.

Outside the classroom, Michigan State boasts of numerous student clubs and organizations, including Greek life. The university’s strong performance in NCAA Division I athletics — especially in football and basketball — makes the high-spirited green-and-white Spartans nationally well-known.

Michigan State accepted around 66% from the applicant pool this past year. For applicants, MSU requires two personal statements, a task that may initially seem challenging. CollegeVine has prepared this guide to help you tackle these prompts with success!

Looking for another essay guide? Search our College Essay Guide Database to find additional essay prompts.

MSU Application Essay Prompts

Prompt #1: difficult situation, describe a difficult or challenging situation you have faced. briefly state the situation, how you responded and why, would you have done anything differently, did you turn to anyone for help, and if so, for advice, consultation, assistance, and/or encouragement (200 words or less).

For those of you also applying to other schools, this question may seem very similar to the second Common Application prompt about overcoming a challenging experience. Essentially, the admissions officer reading your application wants to know how you deal with and grow from difficulty .

To write this essay, first brainstorm moments in your life, specifically challenging ones. Try to aim for experiences that troubled you at first, but you were able to overcome through your own efforts or with the help of others. This will display your capacity to face challenges, no matter how big or small, at Michigan State.

Some examples :

• At the state championship meet, you lost your team’s relay; however, through perseverance, you trained with focus and determination, resulting in a comeback win the following year. This example shows that you are able to redirect a significant failure into a success with a growth mindset, revealing that you are capable of dealing with challenges in the future.
• In your junior year, you failed the first biology test of the year. You feel as if your dreams of becoming a physician are crushed, so you give up. However, you ultimately seek extra help from your teacher in hopes of getting back on the right track. In doing so, not only do your grades slowly rise, but you also gain a newfound friendship. Although academics is a common topic to discuss, this example adds another element of depth by discussing friendships with teachers. This example shows that you use your resources to formulate genuine connections.

While the prompt asks for a statement that could potentially be large, the 200-word limit forces you to be concise and straightforward . Focus on three aspects in the essay: the challenge, the steps you took, and your reflection. Avoid including extra, unnecessary details. Overall, aim to write about a challenge that was significant to you and served as a defining moment for your personal growth.

Prompt #2: Unfair Treatment

Briefly describe a situation where you or someone close to you was not treated fairly. what did you do at the time and why; would you do anything differently; has it impacted or changed who you are today (200 words or less).

Like the first prompt, this question helps to unearth more of your personality; this time, however, the idea is centered around the concept of justice. What do you believe is fair? How do you proceed to maintain it? If something unjust occurs, how significantly does it affect you? These are the questions you should consider when approaching this essay.

Similar to the previous prompt, this moment should have a heavy weight on your defining identity, regardless of how big or small the actual experience was. Essentially, this moment shaped the way you perceive, process, and deal with injustice .

Sample ideas :

• One of your best friends comes out as gay in high school. For the most part, everyone accepts him for who he is; however, a handful of peers harass and bully him. Because it hurts you to see him treated so negatively, you decide to start an LGBTQ+ club, which allows members and allies to meet in a safe and welcoming space. Any experience you have with social-rights inequality work great here. In this specific idea, you are the one witnessing the injustice, and because you feel so moved, you actively decide to make a grand gesture at school.
• At a debate competition, the judge allows the host’s team to unfairly enter the final round, automatically blocking your chances of winning. You know you deserved impartial evaluation, but are infuriated that this opportunity was taken away from you. Instead of letting your emotions commandeer, however, you respect that decision and exemplify good sportsmanship for the duration of the competition. This example works because your frustration towards the situation is evident. Additionally, your response — displaying sportsmanship and respect — shows that you are, first and foremost, a mature person.
• You want to join in on some friendly football with your male friends, but they laugh and say, “But you’re a girl!” It is difficult to receive sexist remarks, especially from friends, but you do not just walk away. Instead, you join in and win with class, educating them that you can play just as well, if not better, as a woman. This example deals with the clash of gender roles, and it succeeds at displaying injustice. Your response illustrates that you do not give in easily to harsh words and that you successfully prove yourself to be a force to reckon with.

The 200-word limit can be difficult to follow, since this prompt is also a hefty topic. As such, be concise and follow this structural format: the unfair treatment, the response, and your reflection. Be critical of the unfairness, but also express a sense of appreciation for the experience, especially if it significantly impacted your identity. Show readers that you have had encounters with injustice and are ready to tackle them at your time at Michigan State University.

In these personal statements, if you’re honest and reflective, then your personality will shine brightest. We wish you good luck on these essays and a successful application process!

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

Need help with your college applications?

We’ve helped thousands of students write amazing college essays and successfully apply to college! Learn more about how our Applications Program can help your chances of admission.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

• Undergraduate Students
• Master’s Students
• Phd and Postdoctoral Students
• Faculty & Staff
• Parents and Families
• Agriculture and Environment
• Art, Communication and Entertainment
• Business and Management
• Education and Public Services
• Health Sciences
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)
• Social and Cultural Studies
• International Students
• LGBTQA+ Students
• Student-Athletes
• Students of Color
• Students with Disabilities
• Student Veterans
• Create a Career Plan
• Connect Majors and Careers
• Explore Careers and Industries
• Gain Experience
• Write a Resume or Cover Letter
• Find Jobs or Internships
• Network and Connect
• Prepare for Interviews
• Visit the Career Closet
• Research Salaries and Negotiate Offers
• Explore Graduate School
• Career Readiness Competencies
• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Master’s Degrees
• Career Fairs
• Career Events
• For Employers
• Our Services
• Leadership Team
• Employer Relations Team
• Career Advisors
• Career Peer Advising Team
• Appointments
• MSU Connect
• Report Post-Graduation Outcomes
• Report Internships

Writing a Personal Statement

• Share This: Share Writing a Personal Statement on Facebook Share Writing a Personal Statement on LinkedIn Share Writing a Personal Statement on X

Writing a personal statement is a necessity when applying to graduate or professional school. The format, length, and topic will vary according to academic discipline and program type, but there are some general guidelines you can follow.

Identify Resources:  Find useful online resources such as those available on the Purdue OWL website to help you draft your essay(s) and review samples. Seek additional program-specific guidelines when available, like the ones offered through the MSU Pre-Health Advising office and information on writing personal statements for medical school  for those applying to health professional programs.

Determine Your Message:  Avoid writing a generic statement. Develop a well written essay that conveys your knowledge and maturity, shows your sincere interest in the academic discipline, and draws a connection between what they are looking for and what you have to offer. Make sure your message clearly states why that particular program is right for you.

Review Before Submitting: Follow up with your career advisor, academic advisor, professional mentor, and/or a representative from the MSU Writing Center to help you refine your essay(s) before submitting. Constructing a personal statement takes time; plan to write, edit, and rewrite several times before landing on the final product.

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS

• Tailor your statement to each program or school
• Make sure to answer the question or prompt
• Stick to the guidelines provided for length, format, etc.
• Follow a traditional essay format with an introduction, body, and conclusion
• Find a compelling angle or hook to tell your story
• Provide strong examples to support your claims
• Emphasize what is unique, distinctive, or impressive about you
• Be positive and sincere Avoid using general or obvious statements and cliches
• Thoroughly check your spelling, grammar, and overall quality of writing

*Duplicate information available in attached resource.

• Call us: (517) 355-9510
• Contact Information
• Site Accessibility
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Call MSU: (517) 355-1855
• Visit: msu.edu
• MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer.
• Notice of Nondiscrimination
• Spartans Will.
• © Michigan State University

Home — Essay Samples — Education — University — Crafting a Compelling Michigan State University Application

Crafting a Compelling Michigan State University Application

• Categories: Student University

About this sample

Words: 568 |

Published: Jun 13, 2024

Words: 568 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, understanding the prompt, reflecting on personal experiences, articulating future goals.

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Heisenberg

Verified writer

• Expert in: Education

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

5 pages / 2059 words

3 pages / 1177 words

5 pages / 2158 words

1 pages / 600 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on University

Being a college student is a transformative journey filled with unique challenges and unparalleled growth. This phase of life brings a multitude of opportunities for intellectual, personal, and professional development. Through [...]

Embarking on the journey of higher education is an exciting and transformative experience, yet it comes with its set of unique hurdles and trials. The challenges facing first-year students at university are multifaceted, ranging [...]

The decision to pursue higher education is one of the most significant choices an individual can make, often shaping their future career and personal growth. For many international students, including myself, the allure of [...]

Community colleges and universities both offer higher education opportunities, but they have distinct differences in terms of cost, size, academic programs, and student experience. This essay will compare and contrast community [...]

Academic Excellence: Explore how Rutgers' rigorous academic programs contribute to your educational growth. Research Opportunities: Discuss the research opportunities available at Rutgers and how they [...]

Education has positive advantages for whatever is left of society. Education is the establishment of sound society. Everybody has a privilege to educate in this cutting edge world. Education enables a man to manufacture great [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Michigan State University Secondary Application Essays Prompts (MSU)

• Cracking Med School Admissions Team

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine (MSU CHM) is a great school with strong clinical training. Many students who attend medical school there learn how to treat patients who live in suburban and rural areas. In order to receive an interview invite,  you need to have a strong Michigan State secondary application that shows an abundance of clinical experiences and your personal traits. Read our other Michigan State secondary application tips below .

Our Cracking Med School Admissions team has a track record of helping our mentees receive acceptances to MSU year after year! We suggest you pre-write this soon after you submit your AMCAS. We can help you edit your Michigan secondary application essays with our secondary editing packages . 

Pre-writing Tip:  The MSU secondary has gotten longer and longer throughout the years. There is too much variation year after year, so we DO NOT RECOMMEND medical school applicants to pre-write this secondary.

Other than submitting a strong Michigan secondary, it is also important to ace the Michigan State Multiple Mini Interview .

• Personally Tailored Essays
• Edits by Stanford & Harvard-trained Doctors
• We study your application strengths to see what unique attributes we’ll bring to the medical school

Michigan State Medical School Medical School Secondary Application Essays: 2023-2024

Michigan state secondary application essay prompts:.

• Imagine and reflect upon your life and medical career at the time of retirement. What do you envision being your proudest/most significant accomplishment? (500 words)
• American society may be experiencing a watershed moment as it reckons with various systemic injustices. Use the space below to share your thoughts about this statement. (500 words)
• Use the space below to reflect upon your COVID-19 public health crisis experiences, challenges, and insights. (500 words)
• Modified from Last Cycle – Consider three or four words and/or phrases from your medical school application that you use to describe or characterize yourself. Pick one (or a completely different one) that is underdeveloped to provide additional written narrative to the committee as to why you’ve decided to pursue a career in medicine  (500 words)
• New Essay – Use the space below to reflect upon your COVID-19 public health crisis experiences, challenges, and/or insights.  (500 words)
• If you could present yourself to the Admissions Committee, what would you want to make sure they knew about you? (500 words)

Tips to Answer Michigan State Medical School Secondary Application Essays

Michigan State Pre-writing Tip: The MSU secondary has gotten longer and longer throughout the years. And, this is a state school that sends interview invites earlier. So ideally, you should work on this earlier. However, there is much variation year after year in the essay prompts. Dr. Rizal and Dr. Mediratta only recommend answering the questions that have not changed for the past 2 application cycles.

• Read all our secondary essay tips:  Secondary Essay Guide – Cracking Med School Admissions

Michigan State Medical School Secondaries Tip #1: Be familiar with and discuss how MSU’s Shared Discovery Curriculum will help you become the physician you want to be. Pick specific aspects of the curriculum that relate to your interests and activities. We STRONGLY advise students to not write statements like “I like the early clinical exposure” because almost every medical school has incorporated that into its curriculum – this is no long unique! Instead, discuss specific rotations and classes that appeal to you. Make sure you discuss why that curriculum aspect is important to you. 

Michigan State Medical School Secondaries Tip #2:  For the COVID-19 question, incorporate your personal experiences as well as healthcare current issues you noticed throughout the COVID pandemic. We have an entire healthcare current events blog post here, where you can read more about healthcare disparities and COVID-19. 

Important resources to help you answer the Michigan State secondary application questions:

• Read about COVID-19 and other healthcare current events like healthcare disparities:  Top 10 Healthcare Current Events You Need to Know
• Read all our tips on how to write COVID-19 essays + examples:  COVID Essay Medical School Example & Tips To Stand Out

Michigan State Medical School Secondaries Tip #3: When you list 3 words or phrases to describe yourself, make sure the words discuss different aspects about you. For example, you should probably not write hard-working, studious, AND driven, since there is a lot of overlap among those words. If Dr. Rizal had to answer this question, she might use phrases like “Excellent Connector” and “Community Builder” and “Creative” – note that she could discuss anecdotes from her personal experiences.  

Michigan State Medical School Secondaries Tip #4: The last question on the MSU secondary application is open-ended. ( If you could present yourself to the Admissions Committee, what would you want to make sure they knew about you? ) Treat that like a diversity secondary essay. You can talk about anything, from a challenging family background and how it shaped you to your leadership experiences. Contact us if want to brainstorm your topic for this prompt!

Michigan State Medical School Secondaries Tip #5:   Michigan State University College of Human Medicine has historically given preference to in-staten applicants. Whether you are in-state or out-of-state, make it a priority to discuss your clinical experiences and community service work in Michigan as well as your desire to treat Michigan patients as a medical student. 

Michigan State Medical School Secondaries Tip #6: Get our help with editing your Michigan State secondary essays! Our Cracking Med School Admissions team will make sure your essay is personalized towards your passions and MSU CHM’s values. We’re here to help you stand out! If you have additional questions about how you can stand out, contact us below. 

Your medical school application Coaches, Mentors, & Cheerleaders

We Personally Advise Every Student We Work With

Rachel Rizal, M.D.

Changing the trajectory of people’s lives.

Undergraduate Princeton University, cum laude

Medical School Stanford School of Medicine

Residency Harvard, Emergency Medicine

Awards & Scholarships Fulbright Scholar USA Today Academic First Team Tylenol Scholarship

Rishi Mediratta, M.D., M.Sc., M.A.

Advising students to attend their dream schools.

Undergraduate Johns Hopkins University, Phi Beta Kappa

Residency Stanford, Pediatrics

Awards & Scholarships Marshall Scholar Tylenol Scholarship Global Health Scholar

stand out from other applicants with our secondary essay edit packages

Michigan state medical school medical school secondary application essays: 2022-2023.

• Slightly reworded from last year: Imagine and reflect upon your life and medical career at the time of retirement. What do you envision being your proudest/most significant accomplishment? (500 words)
• New Essay: In the most general sense, create a list of ten (or more) words or phrases you might use to describe or characterize yourself to someone you just met. From this list of words or phrases, are any associated with your decision to pursue medicine as a career? If yes, select up to 3 and explain. (500 words)

Our students successfully receive interviews at their reach schools.

Stand Out From Other Applicants

School Secondary Editing Packages

Why choose us.

Your acceptance can be just one essay away…

Michigan State Medical School Medical School Secondary Application Essays: 2021-2022

Michigan state university college of human medicine secondary application essay prompts.

• Describe where you envision yourself and what you’ll be doing in 10 years. What do you realistically hope will be your most significant accomplishment by that time? (500 words)

Michigan State Medical School Medical School Secondary Application Essays: 2020-2021

• The College of Human Medicine offers students an innovative learning environment. What experiences have you had that have prepared you to succeed in our curriculum? How will you approach any challenges you may face?  (500 words)
• Discuss a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone. What were the challenges? What did you learn? (500 words)

Michigan State Secondary Application Essays: 2018 - 2019

• The College of Human Medicine implemented a new curriculum in the fall of 2016. Describe your understanding of this curriculum. Explain which of your attributes/strengths will assist in being successful in this curriculum. Explain how you will address any challenges it might pose. Please limit your response to 250 words or less.
• Discuss a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone. What were the challenges? What did you learn? Please limit your response to 250 words or less.
• If you could present yourself to the Committee on Admissions, what would you want to make sure they knew about you? Please limit your response to 250 words or less.
• Thoroughly review the CHM course  Prerequisite Model Options  as outlined on our website. Which course prerequisite model are you applying to CHM with? (choose between options)

Michigan State Secondary Application Essays: 2017 - 2018

• The Michigan State University College of Human Medicine strives to ensure that its students become respectful physicians who embrace all dimensions of caring for the whole person. Please describe how your personal characteristics or life experiences will contribute to the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine community and bring educational benefits to our student body. (1000 characters)
• Is there any further information that you would like the Committee on Admissions to be aware of when reviewing your file that you were not able to notate in another section of this or the AMCAS Application? (1000 characters)
• Why have you chosen to apply to the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and how do you think your education at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine will prepare you to become a physician for the future?  (1 page, formatted at your discretion, upload as PDF)

Contact Us With Questions

We'll answer any and all your questions about medical school we typically respond within 1 business day..

• Your Name *
• Your Email *
• Phone (optional)
• Leave us a Message or Question! We will email and call you back. *
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Start typing and press enter to search

Michigan State University Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Michigan State University college application essays were written by students accepted at Michigan State University. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2365 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11012 literature essays, 2781 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

• Browse College Application Essays
• Undergraduate

College Application Essays accepted by Michigan State University

Friendship.com anonymous, michigan state university.

The "dot-com revolution" of the mid-to-late 1990s began to take hold just as I was entering my middle school years. I was eager to try new things, including this new Internet technology, because my inner self was also changing and becoming...

Looking to the Future Anonymous

It seems as though every day since elementary school people have been asking me the same daunting question: "So, what do you want to do when you grow up?" While my creative mind continues to come up with a different idea for each day of the week,...

Imported Culture Michelle Salman

“Lower your lids!”

Gilad, my drama instructor, paced back and forth on the stage, arms folded over his belly, Israeli impatience rising in his voice. His eyes narrowed, scanned me through bushy slits, and he barked new commands.

“Let your smile...

“Buenos días, ¿cómo estás?” Anonymous

When my dad first began working in Mexico, I nonchalantly changed my schedule to include seventh grade “Intro to Spanish.” Naturally, I didn’t think twice about what would later prove a crucial decision—few seventh graders realize how such simple...

Two Worlds as One Anonymous

“Τι κάνεις? Στην υγειά μας! Opa!”

“Howdy, partner. What’s in that iron skillet, ma’?”

Those phrases from opposite worlds represent my diverse cultural life growing up with a Greek mother and a father from North Dakota. From my mother I learned to...

New Experiences Samantha Jackson

One of the most significant reasons I want to attend Michigan State University is for the beloved “college experience.” To me, the best part of this experience is meeting people that I would have never met in my small hometown of Memphis,...

Notes From a Nomad Andrew Ronald Voigt

As I sit typing my final paper for eighth grade on a rainy Portland night in May, I hear my mother suddenly call, “Andrew, your father and I need to talk to you”. From her tone I know the subject of the conversation. She used that tone at the end...

The Learning Curve Anonymous

I carefully stepped down the steep gravel hill, making my way to the riverbank for my very first crew practice. The early March air chilled my skin and whipped my hair. I was nervous: each rocky step took me closer to a mass of athletic limbs, all...

Common App Short answer Anonymous

When I first heard the lyrics of the Rolling Stones’ “Paint it Black,” it was from this little red contraption that I bought from a garage sale for ten dollars. I was hooked. That small record player eventually became the two Numark turntables and...

When World Collide Anonymous

2007: “Are y’all comin’?” I yell to the kids on the playground as I run over to the swings. They look at each other and laugh, clearly making fun of the way I speak. I put my head down, embarrassed, and walk to the swings alone. I wish I hadn’t...

Only Time Will Tell Anonymous

I’ll always remember that drive; there was a crisp summer breeze sailing in through my window and the taste of early-morning dew still hung in the air. My heart was beating so fast, I could hardly hear my favorite song, “Sweet Caroline”, blasting...

Devotion Anonymous

My mother’s hands tell the entire world of my life. They were the first to hold me when I was first born and feed me when I cried. It was her hands that have raised me on behalf of my busy dad, patting me when I behaved well and spanking me when I...

Chemistry, Conflict, and the Red Bean Bun Anonymous

So ubiquitously sold in the streets of cold breezes of winter in South Korea, a red bean bun brings deliberate warmth and joy to many people. Sold at a price of only forty cents back in the 90s, the red bean bun was more than just a snack; it was...

Shanghai for a Year Anonymous

The vibrant skyline stood dead. It was 4:30 A.M. and life ceased to exist on the streets of Shanghai. The sunrise peaked through the jungle of buildings across the river and shined onto our faces. I stared at the skyline, thinking how much the...

Acceptance Anonymous

“Sit still!” my mom shouted at me in Igbo, as she continued to press the scalding flat iron to my scalp. I hung my head, watching as the puddle of tears in my lap grew larger, each additional tear rolling off my chubby ten-year-old cheek,...

Heritage Living Victoria Katashev

Live musicians yell into their mics while the crowd jumps and sings along to their music. I’m out of breath, my chest hurts, and I know my voice will be gone, but I’ve accepted it. An older man stands up on one of the picnic tables, dancing and...

Change Michelle Ong

In middle school, my favorite song wasn’t Imagine Dragon’s Radioactive, but Matthew West’s 10,000 Reasons. I didn’t know who celebrities like Brad Pitt or Angelina Jolie were, but I knew who Jeroboam and Rahab were. I didn’t have a phone or iPod,...

Finding Veterinary Medicine through Research Animals Xiang Ji

I initially saw obtaining hearing aids as admitting defeat to a disability. Being Hard of Hearing, I struggled with following conversations for years. Even after learning three foreign languages to communicate better, I realized in college that I...

Building a Considerate City: Advocating for Mental Health and Homeless Solutions in Los Angeles nevaeh gutierrez

The notion of family in my Latino community is one that is extremely fluid, with the expectation that we treat others with respect. Albert, my “neighbor,” has occupied the bush in front of my house for over two years and has become a part of my...

Recent Questions about Michigan State University

The Question and Answer section for Michigan State University is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Admission for foreign student

Sorry, I can't help you with this.

Sorry, this is a literary site. I can't help you with this.

How to write an essay at Michigan State University

I'm sorry, I really can't comment on this. This is only a forum on literature.

• Communities Pre-Med Medical Resident Audiology Dental Optometry Pharmacy Physical Therapy Podiatry Psychology Rehab Sci Veterinary
• What's new Trending New posts Latest activity
• Support Account Help Confidential Advising
• Vision, Values and Policies
• PreMed Communities
• Pre-Medical (MD)
• 2024-2025 MD Medical School-Specific Discussions

2024-2025 Michigan State

• Thread starter wysdoc
• Start date Apr 12, 2024

Plain-spoken Texan

• Apr 12, 2024

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Interview Feedback

Admissions advisor

• Jun 10, 2024

2024-2025 list of schools and their SJTs

Full Member

• Jul 12, 2024

1+ OOS!  

OOS Secondary Received 7/12 @wysdoc Standardized Essays 1. Imagine your professional life 15 years from now and briefly detail where you envision yourself and what you hope to be doing. Describe your most meaningful career accomplishment by that time and explain why it is significant. (500 words) 2. Considering your life experiences and the lens through which you view the world, share your thoughts and perspectives about how systemic injustices and inequities have 1) affected you directly, and/or 2) shaped your perspective on society. (500 words) 3. If you could present yourself to the Admissions Committee, what would you want to make sure they knew (or remembered) about you? (500 words) LMU Program Essays 1. Why are you interested in the Leadership in Medicine for the Underserved Program? Be specific. (400 words) 2. How have your past experiences prepared you for the challenges of a medical practice in an underserved area? (400 words) 3. A central component of this program is that students achieve low-intermediate proficiency in a second language by the time they reach the third year of medical school. Explain your current second language proficiency and/or your plan for achieving low-intermediate proficiency in a second language. (400 words) 4. What are the advantages of using a public health approach to maximize individual and population health status? (400 words) LMR Program Essays 1. What motivated you to pursue a career in rural medicine? (250 words) 2. How have your past experiences prepared you for the challenges of a medical practice in a rural area? (250 words) 3. Are you interested in interviewing for the Rural Physician Program (RPP), the Rural Community Health Program (R-CHP), or would you like to interview for both programs? (250 words) MD-PH Program Essays 1. Why are you interested in the Medical Partners in Public Health Certificate program, and what will you plan to do in your future practice with the information and skills gained from this experience? (400 words) 2. Please describe any formal training that you have had in public health. (400 words) 3. Please describe any public health-related experiences that you have had. (400 words) 4. Are there any other considerations that you wish to share with the committee? (400 words)  

+1 OOS  

soldier boy

LemonArtemis

+1 IS  

TOcookiemonster

+ 1 OOS  

PurpleOstrich34

• Aug 8, 2024

Why is nobody posting here? Is there another discussion for MSUCHM?  

deleted1196843

PurpleOstrich34 said: Why is nobody posting here? Is there another discussion for MSUCHM? Click to expand...

• Aug 12, 2024

+1 II ISS, secondary submitted 8/4, LM 75  

• Aug 13, 2024

OOS II received 8/13. Secondary submitted 7/12.  

averagepremed0101

Md/do applicant.

+1 IS II!  

jasonbourne125

OOS II received.  

flyingpig07

+1 IS II Complete 7/17  

+1 IS II on 8/12, complete 7/25, LM 75.2  

• Aug 16, 2024

IS interview on 8/12 LM 65  

I_Hate_ISPs

+1 IS II on 8/16, complete 7/23, LM 71  

futurederm1214

• Aug 18, 2024

How do you calculate your Cumulative GPA for the Lizzy M score?  

DeleriousStudent13

Am I toast if I took a month to return their secondaries? I am interested in one of the certificate programs and believe I am a good fit, but that means I had to write more essays on top of full time work. I figured quality was more important than timeliness since they didn't stress turning it around in 2 weeks.  

premedgirly17

DeleriousStudent13 said: Am I toast if I took a month to return their secondaries? I am interested in one of the certificate programs and believe I am a good fit, but that means I had to write more essays on top of full time work. I figured quality was more important than timeliness since they didn't stress turning it around in 2 weeks. Click to expand...

• Aug 20, 2024

does anyone know if the 1:1 interview with a med student is closed or open file? I cannot for the life of me find anywhere if it is open or closed  

coolpandas said: does anyone know if the 1:1 interview with a med student is closed or open file? I cannot for the life of me find anywhere if it is open or closed Click to expand...

IS Interview offer 8/13  

shinyshinygumdrops

OOS II today  

shinyshinygumdrops said: OOS II today Click to expand...

futurederm1214 said: When were you complete? Click to expand...

DigitalApple

• Aug 21, 2024

On MSAR it says that they interviewed 165 IS students last year and 145 matriculated. Is the post-II acceptance just really high or am I not understanding this table? Because for out of state it says they interviewed 25 but 37 matriculated which makes no sense.  

DigitalApple said: On MSAR it says that they interviewed 165 IS students last year and 145 matriculated. Is the post-II acceptance just really high or am I not understanding this table? Because for out of state it says they interviewed 25 but 37 matriculated which makes no sense. Click to expand...

jasonbourne125 said: I have read in past forums and saw a video on Youtube from a previous dean of admissions that the post II acceptance rate is around 60%. But I agree that MSAR data is confusing for OOS applicants. It appears though that they only interviewed 25 out of over 5000+ OOS applications so getting one probably means you fit their mission. Click to expand...

Similar threads

• Apr 11, 2024

• Apr 13, 2024
• Apr 10, 2024
• This site uses cookies to help personalize content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies and terms of service . Accept Learn more…

Michigan State University Secondary Essay Prompts

These are the secondary application essay prompts for Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. To put your best foot forward and maximize your chance of an interview invitation, visit our secondary application editing page .

about Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Secondary Deadline : November 30, 2024 Secondary Fee : $90 FAP Waiver : Yes CASPer Required : Yes Screens Applications : No Accepts Application Updates : No

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine is committed to educating exemplary physicians and scholars, discovering and disseminating new knowledge, and providing service at home and abroad. We enhance our communities by providing outstanding primary and specialty care, promoting the dignity and inclusion of all people, and responding to the needs of the medically underserved.

1. The College of Human Medicine offers students an innovative learning environment. What experiences have you had that have prepared you to succeed in our curriculum? How will you approach any challenges you may face? (300 words)

2. Discuss a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone. What were the challenges? What did you learn? (300 words)

3. If you could present yourself to the Committee on Admissions, what would you want to make sure they knew about you? (300 words)

All prompts have a 250-word limit.

1. Describe a time when you faced a challenging, but important, learning opportunity. Include your approach and resources used to pursue this challenge. What did you learn about yourself and your approach to learning from this experience? What, if anything, would you do differently?

2. Discuss a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone. What were the challenges? What did you learn?

3. If you could present yourself to the Committee on Admissions, what would you want to make sure they knew about you?

The prompts are as follow (word limit for all are 250)

1. The College of Human Medicine has implemented a curriculum referred to as the Shared Discovery Curriculum . Explain which of your attributes/strengths will assist in your success in this curriculum. Explain how you will address any challenges it might pose for you. Please limit your response to 250 words or less.

2. Discuss a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone. What were the challenges? What did you learn? Please limit your response to 250 words or less.

3. If you could present yourself to the Committee on Admissions, what would you want to make sure they knew about you? Please limit your response to 250 words or less.

1. Describe an experience that profoundly affected you in either a positive or negative manner. What did you learn about yourself through this experience? You are permitted to use an experience included in your AMCAS application, as long as you did not go into great detail (including personal statement and/or experiences), or you discuss a different aspect of the experience. Please limit your response to 300 words or less.

2. Discuss a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone. What were the challenges? What did you learn? Please limit your response to 300 words or less.

3. What do you think will be the most challenging aspect of being a physician some day? How do you see yourself addressing this challenge? Please limit your response to 300 words or less.

4. If you could present yourself to the Committee on Admissions, what would you want to make sure they knew about you? Please limit your response to 300 words or less.

Disclaimer: The information on this page was shared by students and/or can be found on the medical school’s website. Med School Insiders does not guarantee the accuracy of the information on this page.

We're here to help

The secondary application is just as important as the primary. We'll make sure you get it right.

Join the Insider Newsletter

Receive regular exclusive MSI content, news, and updates! No spam. One-click unsubscribe.

Customer Note Premed Preclinical Med Student Clinical Med Student

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Win $20,000 for med school tuition from Blueprint MCAT!

OTHER SCHOOLS

Central michigan university college of medicine secondary application, michigan state university college of human medicine secondary application, oakland university william beaumont school of medicine secondary application, university of michigan medical school secondary application, wayne state university school of medicine secondary application, western michigan university homer stryker school of medicine secondary application, michigan state university college of osteopathic medicine secondary application, search site.

5 MOST POPULAR PODCASTS

Secondary Essay Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

5 Common Med School Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Medical Ethics Questions You Can Expect In Your Interview

The MMI: Everything You Need to Know About the Multiple Mini Interview

Common Medical School Interview Mistakes and How to Fix Them

© Medical School Headquarters - All Rights Reserved. | Affiliate Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Website by MAP

Which program are you applying to?

Accepted Admissions Blog

Everything you need to know to get Accepted

August 3, 2022

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Secondary Application Essay Tips [2022 – 2023]

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine “educates exemplary physicians and seeks to improve health through discovery and responding to the needs of the medically underserved in our communities.” Their research focus is in “groundbreaking” biomedical research about the prevention, control and treatment of disease – and mechanisms underlying human disease. (source: MSU website )

Median MCAT/GPA is 510/3.77. They expect applicants to have long term, in-depth clinical work, paid or volunteer.

MSU CHM’s dean, Aron Sousa, MD, characterizes the curriculum as having robust clinical experience in each year of medical school, and academic content organized by chief complaint rather than organ system or discipline.

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine 2022-2023 application essays

Michigan state university college of human medicine secondary essay #1.

Imagine and reflect upon your life and medical career at the time of retirement. What do you envision being your proudest/most significant accomplishment? ( 500 words )

Your proudest / most significant career accomplishment might relate to MSU CHM’s mission or focus , namely serving the underserved, making an impact in medically underserved communities at home or abroad, or having performed and discovered groundbreaking research that sheds insight into the prevention, control or treatment of disease.

Another approach might be to describe what you would consider to have been a physician’s life well-lived in service to others. What would that service have looked like? Stay humble. Do you define this life of service by its corresponding humanitarianism rather than conceit, clichés or dogma?

Perhaps you think of retirement not as an end but as a transition, like book chapters? How did your career in medicine bring you to this next life adventure? Perhaps you have no intention of retiring? How does your life as a physician change once past your prime or after a significant accomplishment? 

In real life, there is no such thing as a crystal ball. Life will be full of surprises, achievements, disappointments, joy and pain much of which you cannot predict today. So this prompt isn’t really about life plans and details. It’s a narrative about hopes and aspirations – and your imagination.

MSU CHM secondary essay #2

American society may be experiencing a watershed moment as it reckons with various systemic injustices. Use the space below to share your thoughts about this statement. ( 500 words )

A watershed moment is a moment that changes the direction of belief. A watershed moment is a historic epiphany, a moment when looking back one can see the moment when a standing belief changed direction. It is an event or an action that changes the course of normalcy. 9/11 is a watershed moment in US culture. The reversal of Roe vs Wade is a watershed moment in US culture. The electric car is a watershed moment in sustainability and climate change.

“Reckons with” is a pivotal verb phrase suggesting systemic injustice is a force to be reckoned with. Yet, reckon also means to settle, as in reconciling or settling a bank account. How is American Society settling discrimination in its institutions and systems once and for all? 

The American Medical Association has adopted bold guidelines to confront systemic racism with the aim of dismantling racist policies and practices in health care. This prompt infers that right now we are changing the infrastructure and methods of institutions to eliminate inherent bias, inequality, inequity and prejudice. Most medical schools have adopted similar positions in their mission statements. However, this prompt does not limit your answer to addressing systemic injustice solely in healthcare. You may talk about healthcare, but you do not have to.

Where do you see the dismantling of injustice? What does that look like? How is it done? How effective is it? Is there backlash or turmoil? Where have you seen justice in action? How are we never turning back in time regarding injustice?

MSU CHM secondary essay #3

Use the space below to reflect upon your COVID-19 public health crisis experiences, challenges, and/or insights. ( 500 words )

All medical school applicants have had a disruption to their medical school activities, from classes to shadowing to taking the MCAT. Feel free to mention your readjustment to your medical school path briefly. Then, how did you get involved in the pandemic? What did you do to help people through this crisis? How does COVID-19 change healthcare for physicians? For hospitals? For communities? For patients?

MSU CHM secondary essay #4

In the most general sense, create a list of ten (or more) words or phrases you might use to describe or characterize yourself to someone you just met. From this list of words or phrases, are any associated with your decision to pursue medicine as a career? If yes, select up to 3 and explain. If no, explain. ( 500 words )

This prompt is the most “outside the box” prompt yet. Obviously, whatever words or phrases you choose to describe your character paint a self-portrait with words. So, it stands to reason that several entries would correspond with being a physician, whether in your humanitarian values, beliefs, spirituality, love of science, guiding principles (like altruism), or intersectionality (the Venn Diagram of who we are, the circles of our beliefs or the roles we play and their overlap). Just as your activities on the AMCAS application fit a variety of categories, so should your list of characteristics. Be honest, and be yourself. 

Most applicants will likely explain a few characteristics that fit with pursuing medicine. This is a reasonable approach. However, it is possible that an outside the box thinker could be so original in how they explain a “no” that their answer is original and fascinating. For instance, an applicant with a philosophy background might have a wonderful time with this prompt. However, chances are, answering “no” will pose an unnecessary risk. 

MSU CHM secondary essay #5

If you could present yourself to the Admissions Committee, what would you want to make sure they knew about you? ( 500 words )

Some applicants explain a life circumstance, a story, a situation, a challenge they’ve overcome , or a nontraditional path to medicine that sets them apart from the pack or deepens their portrait in the big picture of the application.

Do not answer this question with filler. However, do not overlook an opportunity to enhance the school’s sense of who you are, especially if the secondaries they provide exclude the opportunity to share an important story . Be sure the story ends well and demonstrates what you learned or how you changed for the better with insight and humility.

Do not repeat stories told in other parts of this secondary or in your primary. This essay, like all essays, should add to the reader’s understanding of you.

You’ve worked so hard to get to where you are. Now that you’re ready for your next achievement, make sure you know how to present yourself to maximum advantage in your MSU applications. In a hotly competitive season, you’ll want a member of Team Accepted in your corner, guiding you with expertise tailored specifically for you.  Check out our flexible consulting packages today!

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine 2022-23 application timeline

Source:  MSU website

Related resources:

• The Ultimate Guide to Secondary Essay Questions from Top Med Schools
• Here’s How to Match Your Values to the Medical School Mission Statement
• 5 Dont’s for Your Medical School Personal Statement

About Us Press Room Contact Us Podcast Accepted Blog Privacy Policy Website Terms of Use Disclaimer Client Terms of Service

Accepted 1171 S. Robertson Blvd. #140 Los Angeles CA 90035 +1 (310) 815-9553 © 2022 Accepted

Michigan State University

• Cost & scholarships
• Essay prompt

Acceptance Rate

Average SAT

SAT 25th-75th

Students Submitting SAT

Average (25th - 75th)

Reading and Writing

Average ACT

ACT 25th-75th

Students Submitting ACT

Wondering your admission chance to this school? Calculate your chance now

Applications, how to apply, tests typically submitted, similar schools.

Office of Admissions

Have you reviewed restricted majors?

Many majors at MSU have additional admission requirements. Make sure to check if your major is on the list of restricted majors  so you can review the additional requirements carefully before applying.

MSU application

All transfer applicants must apply through the MSU application. The MSU application will assign you an applicant ID which will allow you save your progress and submit when you are ready.

Application checklist

Here are the main things you need to have prepared to complete your application:

Have your official college-level transcript(s) sent directly from each school or institution attended to MSU. This includes transcripts from any dual enrollment or early/middle college programs. These can be sent through online services or by U.S. mail.

On the application you will be asked to select a major. Make sure you have reviewed the restricted major criteria in the previous step, before selecting a major.

Changing your major

As part of the undergraduate application for admission, each applicant is required to submit one essay (minimum 250 words, maximum 650 words) from the list of prompts. The essay may be considered as a positive factor to enhance admissibility, as well as for scholarship consideration. Here are the essay prompts for the 2025 application for admission:

• Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

If you have completed less than 24 semester credits, you must also:

Transfer applicants with less than 24 semester credits must also have their official high school transcript(s) sent directly to from any high schools they attended to MSU. These can be sent through online services or by U.S. mail.

Transfer applicants

• How to apply
• Dates and deadlines
• Admission criteria
• Transfer credits
• Restricted majors