frequently asked questions

Do I need to have prior experience in a clinic to do MedServe?

While we value prior experience that demonstrates your interest in community service and medicine, it is not a required prerequisite for MedServe participation. You will learn all the skills you need to succeed at your MedServe fellowship role during Training Institute. 

What kinds of factors or experiences are important to convey in my application?

We are looking for candidates with values or experiences that makes understanding primary care in an underserved community a valuable, skill-building experience. There is no preference given for certain types of experiences.

what is the difference between early bird and main round?

MedServe recruits rockstar clinics year-round. We are sensitive to busy clinic schedules and understand some parts of the year may give clinic staff more time to interview and connect with candidates. As such, we recommend applicants apply Early Bird for the best clinic matching opportunities. Applying early may also result in a fellowship offer in the very beginning of the year rather than spring.

is there a minimum gpa requirement?

We do not have a minimum GPA requirement, but find that our accepted candidates on average have a GPA of at least 3.0. If you have any questions about whether your GPA would prevent you from being a successful candidate, please contact us. 

Can I participate in MedServe during my undergraduate career, while in graduate school, or for only one year?

No, the MedServe fellowship is a full-time two year experience given that our curriculum is extensive and the investment it takes on the part of our clinics to properly train fellows for their roles. Applicants must have obtained a bachelors degree prior to their position start date. If for any reason you think you may not remain in MedServe for the full two year period, we are not the fellowship program for you.

Are students with graduate degrees ELIGIBLE to be a medserve fellow?

Yes. Individuals who have completed a master’s level program or post bacc coursework are also encouraged to apply.

Do I need to be going to medical school to participate?

The simple answer is no. MedServe is one way for you to test out an interest in medical or other healthcare profession careers. The MedServe curriculum specifically helps prepare students for medical school in its current format. Students who have taken premedical coursework and have a strong interest in medicine are likely to benefit most from this experience. Typically, our fellows are pre-med or pre-PA.

Can I specify interest in a specific clinic placement site? 

We cannot guarantee placement at any one site. However, if you have specific skills that increase your interest in a particular clinic, we strongly encourage you to write about that in your application and discuss it during your interviews.

does medserve provide housing?

MedServe does not provide housing. However, our staff offers assistance for incoming fellows in finding affordable housing, exploring areas to live in, and connecting you to other service members with similar budgetary needs. Many fellows of the program choose to live with each other to alleviate housing costs.

do I need to receive the covid-19 vaccine to participate?

Each individual clinic determines policies and safety procedures, which may or may not require being vaccinated. If this is a concern, we encourage candidates to ask clinic staff about this in second round interviews.

Do I have to be a US citizen to apply to the program?

In order to be eligible to serve as an AmeriCorps member, individuals must be citizens or lawful permanent residents with the appropriate documentation. Specific details about your eligibility for national service are available here.

still have questions?

Please visit our contact page to speak with a MedServe staff member.