Letter of Recommendation Requirements
Duke strongly prefers a committee letter. Applicants without access to a committee must submit at least three individual letters, typically including two science faculty letters and one letter from a clinical, research, or community supervisor. Duke accepts up to six letters through AMCAS.
Who Should Write Your Letters
For Duke, letters from research mentors who can speak to the applicant's productivity, intellectual independence, and scientific thinking can be especially persuasive given the research-intensive curriculum. Clinical letters that describe patient communication and empathy round out the package. A letter from a science faculty member who knows the applicant beyond the classroom setting adds credibility.
How to Submit Letters to Duke University School of Medicine
Letters are submitted through the AMCAS Letter Service and are assigned to individual school applications by the applicant. Review the Duke secondary application each cycle for updates.
Tips for a Strong Letter Package
Duke's third-year research year makes research experience particularly relevant. If you have significant research experience, make sure your research mentor can describe your project's scope, your intellectual contributions, and your ability to work independently.
Verify current requirements: Medical school admission requirements change by cycle. Always confirm letter requirements directly on Duke University School of Medicine's official admissions website and through the current AMCAS instructions before submitting your application.