{"id":6954,"date":"2021-10-08T13:41:30","date_gmt":"2021-10-08T20:41:30","guid":{"rendered":"\/osteopathic\/?post_type=program&#038;p=6954"},"modified":"2026-05-28T10:24:48","modified_gmt":"2026-05-28T17:24:48","slug":"faqs","status":"publish","type":"program","link":"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"<section class=\"hero-secondary\">\n  <div class=\"relative bg-black\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"adhere object-cover\" src=\"\/media\/osteopathic\/images\/coca-2.jpg\" srcset=\"\" sizes=\"100vw\" alt=\"coca\">\n      <div class=\"adhere gradient-overlay\"><\/div>\n        <div class=\"relative container pt-56 md:pt-112 pb-144 md:pb-192\">\n      <div class=\"md:flex md:justify-between px-12\">\n        <div class=\"sm:w-8\/12 md:w-6\/12 xl:w-5\/12 px-12\">\n                      <div class=\"mb-20\">\n              <div class=\"block font-sans font-bold text-14 text-white leading-130\">\n  <span class=\"inline-block\">\n    <a href=\"\/\" class=\"block hover:underline\">WesternU<\/a>\n  <\/span>\n      <span class=\"inline-block mx-6\">\/<\/span>\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\" class=\"inline-block hover:underline\">College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP) and COMP-Northwest<\/a>\n          <span class=\"inline-block mx-6\">\/<\/span>\n      <a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/\" class=\"inline-block hover:underline\">Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine<\/a>\n    <span class=\"inline-block mx-6\">\/<\/span>\n    <span class=\"inline-block\"><\/span>\n  <\/div>            <\/div>\n                                        <h1 class=\"t-h1-sans  text-white\"><\/h1>\n        <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"tertiary-nav\">\n  <div class=\"container\">\n        <nav class=\"relative mx-24 py-10 px-20 rounded-b-5 md:rounded-b-8 bg-gray shadow-md mb-40\">\n      <ul class=\"grid lg:grid-cols-[1fr_auto_1fr_auto_1fr_auto_1fr] lg:gap-x-16 lg:justify-items-center lg:text-center\"> <!-- 4 columns layout, 1 column in mobile -->\n                            <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/apply-now\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Apply Now<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red mt-8\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/apply.westernu.edu\/register\/request-information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Request Information<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red mt-8\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/apply.westernu.edu\/portal\/advising-comp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virtual Advising Appointment<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red mt-8\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Admissions Information<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/requirements\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Application Requirements<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/financial\/student-budgets\/do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tuition\/Scholarships California<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/financial\/student-budgets\/do-oregon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tuition\/Scholarships Oregon<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/competitive\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Competitive Class Stats<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/webinars\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Recorded Content<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"\/ire\/outcomes\/osteopathic-medicine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Outcomes<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/#upcoming_events\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Upcoming Events<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/faqs\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">FAQs<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/admissions\/visit-campus\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Visit Pomona Campus<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red mb-8\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/admissions\/visit-oregon-campus\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Visit Oregon Campus<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red mb-8\"><\/div>\n                                      <li class=\"my-8\">\n            <a class=\"text-16 font-normal leading-130 tracking-20 text-black hover:text-red hover:underline transition-default\" href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/contact\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">Contact Us<\/a>\n          <\/li>\n                                              <div class=\"vertical-line hidden lg:block w-1 invisible bg-red mb-8\"><\/div>\n                        <\/ul>\n    <\/nav>\n  <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"relative my-48 md:my-72\">\n  <div class=\"container\">\n    <div class=\"lg:flex px-12 lg:justify-center\">\n      \n      \n                  \n                  \n      <div class=\"w-full px-24 wysiwyg-content xl:w-10\/12 2xl:w-9\/12\">\n        <h2><strong>You Have Questions. We Have Answers. <\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Please explore the questions and answers below to learn what many of our prospective students are concerned about. If you still have questions, please <a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/contact\/\"><strong>contact us<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#accordion-1-button\">Admissions<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#accordion-2-button\">Prerequisites<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#accordion-3-button\">Online Application<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#accordion-4-button\">Other<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<section class=\"relative my-48 md:my-72\" vue-app>\n  <div class=\"container\">\n        <app-accordion class=\"px-24 lg:w-4\/5 mx-auto\">\n              <app-accordion-item class=\"accordion-group block leading-1 opt-1\" content-class=\"accordion-group__panel wysiwyg-content\">\n          <template #accordion-trigger=\"{ href, visible, setRef, clickHandler }\">\n            <a :href=\"'#' + href\" \n              :ref=\"setRef\"\n              :class=\"['accordion-group__button scroll-mt-160', {'accordion__trigger_active': visible}]\"\n              @click.stop.prevent=\"clickHandler\"\n            >\n            <span class=\"block py-10\">\n              Admissions\n            <\/span>\n            <span class=\"accordion-group-icon relative flex w-56 h-56 ml-20 justify-center items-center bg-black rounded-full flex-shrink-0\">\n                            <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-down\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n              <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-up\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3s-32.8 12.5-45.3 0L256 173.3 86.6 342.6c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3l192-192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n                          <\/span>\n            <\/a>\n          <\/template>\n          <template #accordion-content>\n            <p><strong>Question 1:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How many applications do you receive, interviews do you grant, and applicants do you accept in an average year?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/competitive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Competitive Class Stats<\/a>\u00a0page lists last year\u2019s statistics and describes the student qualities that are important to the admissions committee.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 2: Is there a separate application process for the Pomona and for the Lebanon campuses?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. You can apply to one or both campuses through the application service, AACOMAS. If you apply to both campuses, you will be required to submit two secondary applications and two processing fees. Only one set of letters is required and will be posted to both applications.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 3:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Does it matter that I\u2019m older than your average applicant?<\/strong><br \/>\nDefinitely not. We find that students of all ages make unique contributions to the class. We encourage all qualified applicants regardless of age.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 4:<\/strong><strong>Can I transfer into COMP and COMP-NW from another medical school?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Yes, we consider transfer requests on a case by case basis for the Pomona campus only. Please refer to the\u00a0<a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/transfer\/\">Transfer Requirements<\/a>\u00a0page for more information on application deadlines.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 5:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Can international students apply?<\/strong><br \/>\n<span data-teams=\"true\">Yes, we can accept applications for the Lebanon campus <strong>and<\/strong> the Pomona campus from international students.<\/span> Please refer to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/international\/international-welcome\/\">international student website\u00a0<\/a>for details.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 6:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How\u00a0is my GPA\u00a0calculated in the application process?<\/strong><br \/>\nAACOMAS calculates an average science, non-science, and overall GPA for undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and graduate coursework, and an average of all coursework taken. All grades earned for repeated courses are factored into your AACOMAS School GPA. AACOMAS does not include professional coursework in their calculations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 7:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Do I submit my letters of recommendation at the same time that I submit my secondary application?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou may submit your letters of recommendation after you receive confirmation that we have received your primary application. We prefer that the letters be sent electronically via Interfolio. Letters sent by mail should be sent to the Admissions Operations Office\/DO Program by the recommender or by the health professions advising office staff on your campus to WesternU, 309 E. Second Street, Pomona, CA 91766. We do not accept letters of recommendation via email.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 8:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Can I submit more than the required number of recommendation letters?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. However, it is advisable to limit the additional letters to 5.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 9:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Can I submit my secondary application after the 10-business-day deadline?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. However, it is highly recommended that you submit your application as early as possible. Submitting your application later may result in delayed processing.\u00a0 The committee will not review your file until all required documents have been received. Since we interview and offer acceptances on a rolling basis beginning in September, it is definitely to your advantage to submit your application and all supporting documents to us within the 10-business-day time frame.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 10:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How can I request a secondary application?<\/strong><br \/>\nWhen the admissions office receives your primary application from AACOMAS and determines that you have met the minimum requirements, you will immediately be directed to a secure webpage to file your secondary application. You will have 10 business days to electronically file your secondary application. Secondary applications filed after 10 business days may result in a delay in processing your application.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 11:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How does the admissions committee decide which applicants are offered seats?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe admissions committee reviews all completed applications and selects the most qualified candidates for interview taking into consideration such criteria as GPA, MCAT scores, clinical experience, leadership roles, knowledge of osteopathic medicine, and community service. Visit the\u00a0<a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/competitive\/\">Competitive Class Stats<\/a>\u00a0page for details.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 12:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How and when will I know if I\u2019ve been invited for an interview?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You will receive an email notification when your application is under consideration for an interview. If selected, you will receive an electronic invitation\u2014typically sent <strong>two to four weeks in advance<\/strong>\u2014with instructions to select your interview date. These messages may occasionally be filtered into your junk folder, so please check it regularly. Interviews are conducted <strong>from September through April<\/strong>, and we do not offer second interviews within the same application cycle.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 13:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>When are acceptance letters and final notification letters mailed?<\/strong><br \/>\nAdmissions Committee decisions are posted to your status page 10-15 days after your interview. \u00a0All decisions made by the Admissions Committee are final. We do not offer an appeal process for those who wish to appeal the committee decision. At the end of the application cycle in August, all applicants will be notified by email of their final status.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 14:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>I am a re-applicant, how can I better my application, or my chances of gaining admission?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Begin by taking an honest, detailed look at the materials you previously submitted and identify any gaps or areas for improvement. For example, you may have had limited exposure to osteopathic medicine (such as shadowing a DO), \u00a0may have limited clinical exposure, or may need stronger academic performance to raise your overall or science GPA. You might also find that your community service was minimal\u2014or that you simply forgot to include it in your application. A thoughtful self\u2011review can reveal a great deal about both the strengths and weaknesses of your file when viewed from an admissions perspective. Above all, remember that we receive applications from thousands of highly qualified candidates each year and are able to accept a small percentage of them. A stronger, more complete application can make a meaningful difference. By comparing your application with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/competitive\/\">Competitive Class Stats<\/a>, you can better gauge how competitive your file is within our applicant pool.<\/p>\n\n          <\/template>\n        <\/app-accordion-item>\n              <app-accordion-item class=\"accordion-group block leading-1 opt-1\" content-class=\"accordion-group__panel wysiwyg-content\">\n          <template #accordion-trigger=\"{ href, visible, setRef, clickHandler }\">\n            <a :href=\"'#' + href\" \n              :ref=\"setRef\"\n              :class=\"['accordion-group__button scroll-mt-160', {'accordion__trigger_active': visible}]\"\n              @click.stop.prevent=\"clickHandler\"\n            >\n            <span class=\"block py-10\">\n              Prerequisites\n            <\/span>\n            <span class=\"accordion-group-icon relative flex w-56 h-56 ml-20 justify-center items-center bg-black rounded-full flex-shrink-0\">\n                            <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-down\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n              <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-up\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3s-32.8 12.5-45.3 0L256 173.3 86.6 342.6c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3l192-192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n                          <\/span>\n            <\/a>\n          <\/template>\n          <template #accordion-content>\n            <p><strong>Question 1:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Is a bachelor\u2019s degree required to apply?\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>\nA bachelor\u2019s degree is required for matriculation, however you may apply while it is in progress. Our\u00a0<a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/competitive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Competitive Class Stats<\/a>\u00a0page will provide you with last year\u2019s class statistics as well as a profile of what the admissions committee considers to be a competitive candidate.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 2:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Do you require any standardized tests?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. You are required to take the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.aamc.org\/students\/mcat\/\">Medical College Admissions Test\u00a0<\/a>(MCAT). It is strongly recommended that you take the MCAT in August or September of the year prior to planned entry. If you submit your application before taking the MCAT, you can indicate on your AACOMAS application the day you plan on taking the test. You will need to release your scores to AACOMAS as soon as they are made available. Your application may not be considered if you take the test in January or later in the year of planned entry.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 3:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How old can my MCAT scores be?<\/strong><br \/>\nWe will not accept test scores taken more than three years from the opening of the application process. For example, we will accept MCAT test scores taken between January 2022 and January 2026 for the Fall 2026 class. However, scores from the January 2026 test may delay consideration of you application which may result in the possibility of not being considered for the class.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 4:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Do you require a minimum MCAT score to apply?\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>\nNo, but\u00a0we recommend that you\u00a0plan to exceed the average scores, GPA\u2019s etc. Visit the\u00a0<a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/competitive\/\">Competitive Class Stats<\/a>\u00a0page for details.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 5: I already have a medical degree from another country. Am I still required to take the MCAT?\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. The MCAT is required even if you have earned a foreign medical degree.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 6:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>What is the average GPA and average MCAT score?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe\u00a0<a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/competitive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Competitive Class Stats<\/a>\u00a0page will provide you with last year\u2019s class statistics as well as a profile of what the admissions committee considers to be a competitive candidate.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 7:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>What are the prerequisite courses for the DO program?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe\u00a0<a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/requirements\/\">view requirements<\/a>\u00a0page will provide you with all the information you need to know about prerequisite coursework and admission requirements.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 8: Can I have prerequisite courses in progress at the time of application? How many?\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. While we do not have a set number of courses you must have completed at the time of application, we recommend that you have at least 3\/4\u00a0of the prerequisites completed by the time of application. Doing so will provide the admissions committee with a clearer picture of your academic preparation for the program. Should you be accepted, all prerequisites MUST be completed prior to matriculation. The\u00a0<a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/requirements\/\">view requirements<\/a>\u00a0page will provide you with additional detail regarding requirements.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 9:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Do you accept College Level Equivalency Program or Advanced Placement credits?\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. We accept College Level Equivalency Program (CLEP) and Advanced Placement (AP) credit as long as the course credits are specified on the transcript and are class specific. The coursework must appear on your transcript, we do not accept other forms of verification. The <a href=\"\/osteopathic\/programs\/doctor-of-osteopathic-medicine\/requirements\/\">view requirements<\/a>\u00a0page will provide you with additional detail regarding requirements.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 10:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How does AACOMAS convert semester hours to credit hours for GPA calculations?<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"sm:flex sm:space-x-40 w-full py-32 border-b-1 border-gray\">\n<div class=\"md:w-6\/12 xl:w-6\/12\">\n<p>They use the following conversion table:<\/p>\n<table class=\"table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Quarter<br \/>\nHours<\/strong><br \/>\n1<br \/>\n2<br \/>\n3<br \/>\n4<br \/>\n5<br \/>\n6<br \/>\n7<br \/>\n8<br \/>\n9<br \/>\n10<\/td>\n<td><strong>Semester<br \/>\nHours<\/strong><br \/>\n0.7<br \/>\n1.3<br \/>\n2.0<br \/>\n2.7<br \/>\n3.3<br \/>\n4.0<br \/>\n4.7<br \/>\n5.3<br \/>\n6.0<br \/>\n6.7<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"md:w-6\/12 xl:w-6\/12 app-gutter pl-16\">\n<p>If your grades are posted as letters rather than numerals, AACOMAS uses the follow conversion table:<\/p>\n<table class=\"table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>A<\/td>\n<td>A-<\/td>\n<td>B+<\/td>\n<td>B<\/td>\n<td>B-<\/td>\n<td>C+<\/td>\n<td>C<\/td>\n<td>C-<\/td>\n<td>D+<\/td>\n<td>D<\/td>\n<td>D-<\/td>\n<td>F<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>4.0<\/td>\n<td>3.7<\/td>\n<td>3.3<\/td>\n<td>3.0<\/td>\n<td>2.7<\/td>\n<td>2.3<\/td>\n<td>2.0<\/td>\n<td>1.7<\/td>\n<td>1.3<\/td>\n<td>1.0<\/td>\n<td>0.7<\/td>\n<td>0.0<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n          <\/template>\n        <\/app-accordion-item>\n              <app-accordion-item class=\"accordion-group block leading-1 opt-1\" content-class=\"accordion-group__panel wysiwyg-content\">\n          <template #accordion-trigger=\"{ href, visible, setRef, clickHandler }\">\n            <a :href=\"'#' + href\" \n              :ref=\"setRef\"\n              :class=\"['accordion-group__button scroll-mt-160', {'accordion__trigger_active': visible}]\"\n              @click.stop.prevent=\"clickHandler\"\n            >\n            <span class=\"block py-10\">\n              Online Application\n            <\/span>\n            <span class=\"accordion-group-icon relative flex w-56 h-56 ml-20 justify-center items-center bg-black rounded-full flex-shrink-0\">\n                            <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-down\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n              <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-up\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3s-32.8 12.5-45.3 0L256 173.3 86.6 342.6c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3l192-192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n                          <\/span>\n            <\/a>\n          <\/template>\n          <template #accordion-content>\n            <p><strong>Question 1: How do I check my application status online?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can check your application status by visiting the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/apply.westernu.edu\/apply\/status\/\">application status page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 2: What if I want to change information on my application after I have completed it?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou may not change answers or documents submitted with your application, but you may upload additional, supplemental materials. To do so, visit the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/apply.westernu.edu\/apply\/status\/\">application status page<\/a>\u00a0and use the \u201cUpload Materials\u201d section of the page to submit your supplemental materials.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 3: What if I want to apply to more than one program? Do I need to create a new account?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can apply to multiple programs using a single account. Visit our\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/apply.westernu.edu\/apply\">online application<\/a>, log in, and click \u201cStart New Application\u201d at the bottom of the page.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 4: What address should I use if I need to mail any additional application materials?<\/strong><br \/>\nFor official transcripts please mail to:<br \/>\nWestern University of Health Sciences<br \/>\nAttn: Admissions Operations\/program you are applying for (MSMS, MSNE, MSBPS, etc.)<br \/>\n309 E Second Street<br \/>\nPomona, CA 91766<\/p>\n<p>For unofficial documents, please upload to the online application as indicated in the application instructions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 5: How do I pay my application fee?<\/strong><br \/>\nAll application fees require payments made by credit card. Only cards with Visa and Master Card logos will be accepted. No checks, money orders, or cash will be accepted for payment of application fees.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 6: What if I do not have a Visa or Master Card?<\/strong><br \/>\nPayment may be made with a Visa or Master Card prepaid gift card which can be purchased at many major chain stores or online. Please be aware that the gift card must contain a balance sufficient to cover the application fee in one full payment.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 7: Are fee waivers accepted?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes, applicants who are approved for a fee waiver from AACOMAS are granted a fee waiver for the secondary application.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 8: How do I withdraw my application?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou may withdraw your application by visiting the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/apply.westernu.edu\/apply\/status\/\">application status page<\/a>. Scroll to the bottom of your application and select withdraw my application.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 9: How do I delete an application I accidentally started?<\/strong><br \/>\nApplicants cannot delete their own application once started. Please submit a request to Admissions Operations at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:AO@westernu.edu\">AO@westernu.edu<\/a>\u00a0to have it deleted.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 10: I have applied to more than one program. How do I check my application status for multiple applications?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can check your application status by visiting the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/apply.westernu.edu\/apply\/status\/\">application status page<\/a>. Select the application you wish to view from the drop down menu located on the right hand side.<\/p>\n\n          <\/template>\n        <\/app-accordion-item>\n              <app-accordion-item class=\"accordion-group block leading-1 opt-1\" content-class=\"accordion-group__panel wysiwyg-content\">\n          <template #accordion-trigger=\"{ href, visible, setRef, clickHandler }\">\n            <a :href=\"'#' + href\" \n              :ref=\"setRef\"\n              :class=\"['accordion-group__button scroll-mt-160', {'accordion__trigger_active': visible}]\"\n              @click.stop.prevent=\"clickHandler\"\n            >\n            <span class=\"block py-10\">\n              Other\n            <\/span>\n            <span class=\"accordion-group-icon relative flex w-56 h-56 ml-20 justify-center items-center bg-black rounded-full flex-shrink-0\">\n                            <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-down\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n              <span class=\"w-16 icon-chevron-up\">\n                <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><!--!Font Awesome Free 6.6.0 by @fontawesome - https:\/\/fontawesome.com License - https:\/\/fontawesome.com\/license\/free Copyright 2024 Fonticons, Inc.--><path d=\"M233.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3s-32.8 12.5-45.3 0L256 173.3 86.6 342.6c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3l192-192z\"\/><\/svg>\n              <\/span>\n                          <\/span>\n            <\/a>\n          <\/template>\n          <template #accordion-content>\n            <p>There are two pathways to becoming a physician; the osteopathic (DO) route, and the allopathic (MD) route. Both DOs and MDs evaluate and treat patients,\u00a0prescribe medication, make referrals, open their own practice, and specialize in any field, etc. However, there are two primary differences between the training that a DO receives and the training an MD receives.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The first difference is in philosophy<\/strong>. Osteopathic medicine practices a\u00a0<strong>whole-person approach to medicine.\u00a0<\/strong>Osteopathic physicians consider more factors than just\u00a0the disease, and often are able to treat patients by helping them make changes in lifestyle rather than just prescribing medication.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0It is a century-old tradition of caring for people, not just treating symptoms.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The second difference<\/strong>\u00a0is that osteopathic physicians receive\u00a0<strong>additional training in what is called Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine<\/strong>\u00a0(OMM). DOs may also use their hands to diagnose and treat injury and illness and encourage the body\u2019s natural tendency toward good health. Combined with other medical procedures, OMM enables physicians to not ONLY treat their patients with medication, surgery, etc., but also with manipulation when appropriate. This form of treatment can often result in immediate relief and\/or increased speed of healing. Interested in learning more? Two students of Osteopathic Medicine wrote\u00a0<a href=\"\/media\/osteopathic\/pdfs\/a-brief-guide-to-osteopathic-medicine.pdf\">A Brief Guide to Osteopathic Medicine<\/a>\u00a0that provides an easily understood summary of the history, philosophy, different techniques involved in OMM, and the many opportunities available for osteopathic medical students and graduates.<\/p>\n<table class=\"table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th colspan=\"3\">What is the difference between a DO and an MD degree?<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><\/td>\n<td><strong>DOs<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>MDs<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Years of Medical School<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Required Licensing Exam<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>COMLEX-USA<\/td>\n<td>USMLE<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Prescribe Medication?<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Make Referrals?<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Open Own Practice?<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Specialize in Any Field?<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>OMM Training?<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>YES<\/td>\n<td>NO<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><strong>Question 2:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Can osteopathic physicians practice in other countries? Where?\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>\nYes,\u00a0many countries recognize physicians with a DO degree. For example, Germany announced its recognition of the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree in 1999.\u00a0Contact the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osteopathic.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">American Osteopathic Association (AOA)<\/a>\u00a0for further information.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 3:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How can I learn more about WesternU\u2019s Osteopathic Medicine program?<\/strong>\u00a0Campus tours are available at both the\u00a0<a href=\"\/admissions\/visit-campus\/\">Pomona Campus\u00a0and\u00a0Lebanon Campus<\/a>.\u00a0 You can tour the facilities, chat with faculty and students, and learn more about WesternU\u2019s DO curriculum and admission requirements as well as learning about upcoming campus events.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 4:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How can I contact an osteopathic physician to interview or shadow?\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>\nThe\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osteopathic.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">American Osteopathic Association<\/a>\u00a0(AOA) Web site provides access to state-specific Web sites, most of which have listings of osteopathic physicians you can contact in your area.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 5:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>How can I learn more about the financial aid available to me?<\/strong><br \/>\nFor more information regarding tuition,\u00a0scholarships, and loans\u00a0please visit the\u00a0<a href=\"\/financial\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Financial Aid<\/a> site.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Question 6:<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>Is tuition the same for in-state and out-of-state residents?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. We are a private institution, therefore the tuition assessed is the same for in-state, out-of-state and international students. Visit the Financial Aid budget page for <a href=\"\/financial\/student-budgets\/do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">California<\/a> or <a href=\"\/financial\/student-budgets\/do-oregon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oregon<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n\n          <\/template>\n        <\/app-accordion-item>\n          <\/app-accordion>\n  <\/div>\n<\/section>","protected":false},"parent":9531,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-6954","program","type-program","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/programs\/6954","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/programs"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/program"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/programs\/6954\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16230,"href":"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/programs\/6954\/revisions\/16230"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/programs\/9531"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.westernu.edu\/osteopathic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6954"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}