Once your AMCAS and secondary essays have been submitted, getting into medical school kicks into high gear with the interview season. But what if you’ve completed your application and yet haven’t been invited to interview?

First of all, realize that medical school admissions have become increasingly competitive of late – especially in this weaker economy. Competitive applicants who would have considered business or law school are now recognizing the stability of a medical career. The number of applicant has again increased this year. The lack of an invite may just represent overloaded admissions offices.

However, there are a few things you can do to determine your status:

1. Through AMCAS, you can ensure your application is complete. I have had several clients who believed they submitted their applications in full, but noted that one or more schools listed their applications as incomplete.
2. If the institution does not expressly forbid it, you can call the school. Be polite when asking about your status. I have had an occasional client who is invited for an interview upon calling.
3. Send a letter of intent. Let the school(s) know of your continued interest and your new accomplishments. Ensure the letter is well written, streamlined and brief.

One would never take the MCAT without practicing first and yet, countless applicants go to medical school interviews without preparing. Once you receive your first invitation, consider working with a professional: Because applicants can unknowingly undermine their chances of success with poor interview skills, a qualified, personalized medical school admissions consultant provides a great advantage.

Medical school admissions consulting companies come in a variety of forms. Some are bigger businesses that focus on admissions to several types of graduate programs – not just medicine. Others are smaller and provide a medical focus, but have a pool of consultants of varying quality. Finally, elite companies offer both the medical focus and a highly experienced consultant who works one-on-one with clients. These professionals are ex-admissions officers from highly respected medical institutions. They have the inside knowledge of how medical school admissions work, providing individualized guidance to optimize applicants’ personal statements, applications and interview skills.

When choosing a medical school admissions consulting company, a candidate should verify the company’s references and research its consultants. Elite companies that offer both the medical focus and a highly experienced consultant who works one-on-one with clients offer a large advantage for pre-medical applicants, especially during these competitive times.