Frequently Asked Questions
General
1. What is the NERA MedPrep HCOP Academy?
The Northeast Regional Alliance (NERA) MedPrep HCOP Academy is a partnership between Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai's Center for Multicultural and Community Affairs, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and the Manhattan-Staten Island Area Health Education Center.
The Program uniquely builds on the collective expertise of four outstanding institutions to expand health careers preparation. Ultimately, we expect that our scholars will have the humanism, professionalism and interpersonal skills required of a future physician caring for a diverse population.
2. How long is the program?
The program is a six to seven week summer enrichment program that last 3 summers beginning in May or June annually.
3. Do I have to complete all three years?
Yes. Scholars selected for this highly competitive program will be expected to complete MedPrep 1, 2, and 3.
4. Will I receive college credit for the MedPrep program?
No. Upon completion of the 3 Levels, a composite letter of recommendation will be sent to your undergraduate institution, school, or program of interest.
5. Can anyone apply to the program?
The NERA MedPrep HCOP Academy is designed to expand health career preparation for economically and/or educationally disadvantaged students from junior high school through medical school with the goal of increasing competitiveness for medical school. See the eligibility requirements to determine if you can apply.
6. How much does the program cost?
The MedPrep Scholars program is free. Accepted Scholars will receive a stipend which can be used for meals, books, and transportation.
7. Is there an application fee?
No. There is no fee needed to apply to the MedPrep HCOP Academy.
8. What are the criteria needed to be considered for the program?
To be eligible for the NERA MEDPREP Program, an applicant must
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be a resident of New Jersey or New York and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
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be a college freshman or sophomore;
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have a minimum GPA of 3.00, or equivalent academic credentials
9. How do I know which school to apply to: NJMS or Columbia?
Residents of New Jersey can only apply to the NJMS program and New York Area residents (five boroughs of NYC) to the Columbia program.
10. What is the deadline to apply to the program & when will I be notified of the Committee’s decision?
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The application deadline is March 1, 2025. Students will be notified on/before May 1, 2025.
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Students are admitted on a rolling basis.
11. Can I dorm?
No. Accepted Scholars will have to commute to either NJMS in Newark or Columbia University in Upper Manhattan.
12. If I’m accepted to the program, do I need health insurance?
Yes. Students must also provide proof of health insurance once admitted to the program.
13. How can I get more information on the NERA MedPrep Program?
Email us at info@neramedprep.org
OR
Use the Contact Information for Partner Institutions on the Contact Us Page
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