Application Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
We have also compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate through the application process, and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have additional questions.
Step 1: Prerequisites and Application Requirement
The first step in the admissions process is to ensure you are on track to complete both the course prerequisites and application requirements in time to apply for your preferred year of entry.
International Students: We do not require a separate application or fee, and you should be prepared to meet all of the prerequisite and application requirements as outlined. If you need assistance with immigration (I-20 form, F-1 visa, SEVIS, etc.), our International Student Services (ISS) staff are available to help you. Visit the ISS website to learn more.
Step 2: Make Yourself a Competitive Candidate
Admission to the program is competitive, we admit only 50 students, so you should strive to not only meet, but exceed the minimum requirements. To get a feel for the competitiveness of the applicant pool we recommend that you view our Competitive Class Stats page, and read what the admissions committee recommends you do to maximize your candidacy.
Step 3: Preparing and Submitting your Application
Instructions to start and complete your application.
There are a number of supporting materials, and it is essential that you give yourself time to have all of them prepared, to ensure that you properly submit your completed application by the deadline.
Prerequisite Courses for the 2026 Entering Class
MINIMUM OF 8 SEMESTER UNITS OR 12 QUARTER UNITS (MUST BE FULL-YEAR COURSE SEQUENCE)
- General Biology with lab – may not be an introductory course
- Organic Chemistry with lab – may not be an introductory course
- General Physics with lab – may not be an introductory course
- General or Inorganic Chemistry with lab – may not be an introductory course
Required: 6 semester or 9 quarter units
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- College English/English Composition
- Must be taken from the English Department
- English as a Second Language (ESL) courses are not accepted
- College English/English Composition
Not required but highly recommended
- Biochemistry, Human Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Zoology & Behavioral Sciences (Psychology, Sociology, Marriage/Family etc.)
All Prerequisites:
- Must be completed at an institutionally accredited U.S. institution (exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis) or its equivalent abroad
- Must be completed with a competitive grade by the end of the spring term just prior to enrollment.
- Must be designated for baccalaureate credit by the institution offering the courses
- Advanced-placement credit will be considered on a case-by-case basis
- Online labs are NOT accepted
- Will not be satisfied by pass/no credit, CLEP or credit for experiential learning
- All coursework taken from non-US institutions (including Canada) must be submitted to an approved service for evaluation
Application Requirements
Completion of prerequisite courses as outlined
Minimum 90 semester or 135 quarter units of undergraduate coursework
- Must be completed by matriculation at an institutionally accredited U.S. institution.
- Although not required, having earned a BS or BA will likely strengthen your candidacy. The BS or BA may be in any subject.
Standardized Tests
- MCAT is required.
- Official scores must be submitted via your AACPMAS application and received in Admissions by June 30.
- MCAT exams taken more than three (3) years prior to application are NOT ACCEPTABLE..
The Verified Podiatric Shadowing Experience Form and a Letter of Recommendation from a Podiatric Physician are Recommended
- If you submit a letter of recommendation from a Podiatric Physician, it cannot be from a family member.
- Interest in, and knowledge of, Podiatric Medicine may be discussed during the interview.
We strongly recommend you shadow a DPM. If you need assistance in locating a podiatric physician, email us and we can refer you to a DPM in your area.
Methods for submitting Shadowing Verification or Letter of Recommendation:
- Letters by Liaison Portal: Letters may be submitted via the application portal. This is the preferred way to submit letters of recommendation.
- Electronic: Letters may be electronically submitted by the recommender to services such as Interfolio.
- Paper: Letters must be on official letterhead and must be signed by the recommender. Letter must be submitted in a sealed envelope that is signed over the seal by the recommender.
- Email: Shadowing verification may be emailed directly to admissions from the doctor’s office. Letters of recommendation may be attached but must be on official letterhead. Email address must be a business or school email address. Have emails send directly to admissions@westernu.edu
Proof of Legal U.S. Residency – If Required
- Non U.S. citizens must provide proof of legal U.S. residency prior to matriculation.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – If Required
- The TOEFL is required for all applicants submitting coursework from foreign schools.
- A minimum score of 79 for the Internet-Based test must be submitted at the time of application.
- TOEFL scores are valid for two years.
- The online TOEFL will be accepted.
Exceptions: The TOEFL exam will be waived for permanent and temporary residents of the United States who have completed the English prerequisite from an accredited institution in the United States.
English courses taken from foreign countries whose native language is English will be accepted (e.g., Canada, Australia, Great Britain, New Zealand and the British West Indies)