Who should write letters of recommendation for University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine?

Most applicants submit 2 science faculty letters and at least 1 letter from a clinical, research, or service supervisor. Given Pitt's research strength, letters from faculty who supervised independent research or laboratory work can be especially effective.

How do I submit letters of recommendation to University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine?

Submit through AMCAS Letter Service. Applicants assign letters to individual school applications after uploading to AMCAS.

Medical school — Pennsylvania

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Letters of Recommendation Requirements

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine uses letters of recommendation as part of a holistic evaluation that also considers research experience, clinical exposure, community service, and personal statement. This guide covers how many letters are required, who should write them, and how to submit through AMCAS.

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Minimum letters3

Maximum letters6

Science letters2 recommended

Committee letterPreferred / Optional

SubmissionAMCAS Letter Service

Letter of Recommendation Requirements

Pitt prefers a committee letter. Applicants without committee access should submit at least three individual letters including two science faculty letters and one from a research, clinical, or service supervisor. Up to six letters are accepted through AMCAS.

Who Should Write Your Letters

Given Pitt's research strength, letters from faculty who supervised independent research or laboratory work can be especially effective. Clinical supervisors, community health mentors, and service leaders who have observed the applicant's patient communication and empathy add balance to the package.

How to Submit Letters to University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Letters are submitted through AMCAS. Check Pitt's secondary application each cycle for current guidance.

Tips for a Strong Letter Package

Pitt has a strong research infrastructure and hospital system affiliation with UPMC. If you completed research at Pitt or in affiliated programs, a letter from your supervisor there can be particularly well-received.

Verify current requirements: Medical school admission requirements change by cycle. Always confirm letter requirements directly on University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine's official admissions website and through the current AMCAS instructions before submitting your application.

Common questions

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Recommendation Letter FAQ

How many letters of recommendation does University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine require?

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine typically requires a minimum of 3 letters and accepts up to 6 letters through AMCAS. Committee letter preferred; individual letters accepted.

Does University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine require a committee letter?

Committee letter preferred; individual letters accepted. If your undergraduate school does not have a pre-medical advisory committee, submit the required number of individual letters instead.

Who should write my letters for University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine?

Most applicants submit 2 letters from science faculty and at least 1 letter from a clinical, research, or service supervisor who can speak to qualities beyond academic performance.

How do I submit letters to University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine?

Submit through AMCAS Letter Service. Recommenders upload letters through a unique link provided by AMCAS, and applicants then assign letters to each school application.

When should I ask for letters of recommendation?

Ask recommenders three to four months before the application opens. Provide each recommender with your personal statement draft, activities list, transcript, and a few reminders of work you completed together. Follow up with a thank-you after submission.

Related resources

Medical School Recommendation Letter Templates

Use these resources to prepare your recommendation letters for University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and other medical school applications.