Here are answers to five common questions applicants ask the AAMC Support Center about submitting their AMCAS application.
1. How do I send my transcript(s) to the AMCAS program?
The AMCAS program accepts both electronic and paper transcripts. Electronic transcript submission is preferred for efficient processing. Electronic transcripts must be sent through an approved vendor or by secure email from an approved school registrar. Approved vendors include Certree, National Student Clearinghouse, and Parchment.
Contact your school’s registrar to confirm whether they are approved to send transcripts to the AMCAS program by secure email or through one of the approved vendors.
If your institution does not offer electronic transcript submission, you may have a paper transcript mailed to the AMCAS program. When sending a paper transcript, include the AMCAS pre-barcoded Transcript Request Form to help ensure your transcript is matched to your application.
Helpful reminder: Transcripts must be sent directly from the registrar’s office. Transcripts sent directly by the applicant are not accepted.
2. How long does transcript processing take?
Transcript processing timelines vary based on how the transcript is sent to the AMCAS program. Electronic transcript submission is preferred for efficient processing and takes 2 business days, while paper transcripts may take up to 25 business days because they must be mailed and processed after receipt.
Your application will not enter the verification queue until your AMCAS application has been submitted and all required official transcripts have been received.
To help avoid delays, make sure you provide the correct AAMC ID and Transcript ID when requesting an electronic transcript for each school you entered in the Schools Attended section of the AMCAS application. Incorrect identifying information may delay matching your transcript to your application.
3. How can I check where the AMCAS program is with processing my application?
You can monitor your AMCAS application status directly in the application. The AMCAS program uses statuses to show where your application is in the process and posts daily processing timelines on the AMCAS homepage.
Common statuses include:
- Submitted to the AMCAS Program — Waiting for Transcripts: Your application has been submitted, but the AMCAS program is waiting for your required transcripts.
- Submitted to the AMCAS Program — Ready for Review: The AMCAS program has received your transcripts, and your application is in the queue for verification and processing.
- Submitted to the AMCAS Program — Under Review: An AMCAS verifier is currently reviewing your transcripts and coursework.
- AMCAS Processing Is Complete: Your application has been processed and made available to your designated medical schools.
Applicants are responsible for regularly checking their application status throughout the process.
4. What does “Under Review” mean?
If your application status is “Under Review,” it means an AMCAS verifier is actively reviewing your transcripts and coursework.
During verification, AMCAS staff review your application to ensure the coursework information you entered accurately reflects your official transcript information.
Once verification is complete, your application will move to “AMCAS Processing Is Complete,” and your processed application will be made available to the medical schools you designated.
5. If I resubmit my application, will I lose my place in line?
After submitting your AMCAS application, you may need to make certain updates. If you make changes after your initial submission, you must select Resubmit Application on the Main Menu to officially update and save those changes.
Resubmitting your application does not affect your place in the verification line. If your application is already in the queue, resubmitting does not restart your verification process.
Bonus Tip: Before You Withdraw Your Application
If you are considering withdrawing your AMCAS application, be sure you understand what that decision means. Withdrawing your application is final and cannot be reversed. Once you withdraw, you may no longer apply for the current application year, and your application cannot be reinstated.
If you are unsure about withdrawing, contact the AAMC Support Center before taking action.
Final Takeaway
The best way to keep your AMCAS application moving is to request transcripts early, use approved electronic transcript options when available, check your application status regularly, and carefully review any updates before resubmitting. Staying informed about each step can help you avoid delays and better understand what to expect after submission.
Good luck with your application!