GEMS 2012-2013
Thank you for your interest in the Georgetown Experimental Medical Studies (GEMS) Program.
The (GEMS) Program is a one-year post-baccalaureate experience for students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are most likely to make a significant contribution to meeting the needs of the nation’s minority, disadvantaged and under-served populations, and whose disadvantaged circumstances have contributed to modest academic credentials.
The GEMS Program provides an opportunity for disadvantaged students to enhance academic skills and successfully complete selected courses taught to first-year medical students at Georgetown University School of Medicine. In concert with these objectives:
GEMS students are United States citizens from disadvantaged backgrounds. Many are from groups that have been traditionally under-represented in medicine (African Americans, Mainland Puerto Ricans, Mexican Americans and Native Americans). All meet the program’s academic criteria and show evidence of their ability to satisfy the social and educational goals of this program.
GEMS students take courses selected from the first year medical curriculum and are graded on the same basis as medical students. GEMS students also take a graduate level biochemistry course. GEMS students are involved in active learning sessions, resulting in an average seven- to eight-hour day. GEMS students who successfully complete the program are encouraged to apply to the School of Medicine. Biochemistry, though not required, is highly recommended.
Applicants to the GEMS program must have successfully completed one year each of general chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, physics, and college mathematics. Appropriate preparation in the laboratory is required in biology, inorganic and organic chemistry, and physics.
All applicants must show evidence of having earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
The 2012-2013 "ONLINE" GEMS Application Cycle will open on February 15, 2012 and close on March 30, 2012.
Interviews are granted by invitation only, and interviewees will be contacted through information provided on the GEMS application.
Final Admissions Decisions for the 2012-2013 GEMS Program will be made by May 31, 2012.
The "ONLINE" application link will appear on this webpage on February 15, 2012.
ALL admissions materials -- including the GEMS Application, GEMS Recommendation Forms, AMCAS Application PDF Upload and Transcripts -- will be processed electronically through the "ONLINE" link on the GEMS webpage.
Transcripts are only needed for grades NOT verified by AMCAS or that do not appear on your AMCAS application.
Helpful information for the GEMS program is also available through the 2011-2012 FAQ link below (updates for 2012-2013 will be available February 15, 2012).
Updated November 25, 2011
