Current Applicant? Tips for Sending Updates to Schools After You've Applied

Once you've submitted your application, it's appropriate (but not required) to send updates to schools. An update can convey your continued interest in a particular school as well as provide information about what you're currently doing.

Typical reasons for an update:

• A significant event has occurred: If a noteworthy event, such as winning an award, starting a new job or clinical experience, publication of your research, etc. occurred post-application submission, conveying this information may enrich your application. 
• You want to highlight an area of improvement in your candidacy: If there was an area of your candidacy you knew needed more work when you applied and you've been working toward it, be sure to emphasize the improvement when updating your schools. 
• You've gained a new perspective on a school: If you gained new perspective on a school and your fit for it (by further researching the program or meeting someone affiliated with the school, etc.), it can be helpful to include that insight in your update. 

Updates should be: 

• Professional: You should strive for a tone that is confident, courteous, and sincere throughout your document.
• Limited: Updates sent too frequently or with little content will convey a lack of effort on your part. 
• Concise: Keep updates concise and clear. A page is sufficient. 
• Appropriate: Only send updates if a school is open to them. If it's unclear whether they welcome updates, contact the admissions office to ask. 

Submit updates in whatever manner the school prefers. Often, this is through their application portal. Do not send updates if a school asks you not to send additional information and be sure to keep copies of everything you send. If you are uncertain about the objectivity or appropriateness of your update, schedule a meeting with a pre-health advisor to discuss your approach.