Competition for grades is eliminated and students are eager to help one another. Class spirit is remarkably high year after year. Students are encouraged to advance at their own pace within the Yale curriculum. Although the majority complete the program in four academic years, a significant number of students make special arrangements to spend an additional year. This time may be spent in research at Yale, another university, or an institute abroad.
Some students pursue a degree or courses in another program such as public health, divinity, or law.
In recognizing the special needs of students who take on the responsibility of bearing and raising children, students may elect to take extended study or an official leave of absence for this reason during their medical education. Finally, the Yale System requires each student to engage in a form of research activity, designed to foster development of a lifelong commitment to learning. All rights reserved. Comments or suggestions to the Medical School Admissions Office.