Pre-Health Advising

Pursuing a career in the health field presents both significant rewards and challenges. The first critical step is to narrow down the many available options within health care. 

We encourage you to review the information linked below to explore the various health professions in greater detail and discuss options with an advisor. 

• Explore health professions

• Explore nursing pathways

Please complete this form if you're interested in entering a health profession and would like to receive communication from Pre-Health Advising about resources, events and opportunities which may help you become a competitive applicant to health profession programs.

Pre-health interest form Schedule an advising appointment

Have you selected a health profession to pursue? These self-assessments will help you determine if you are ready to apply for your health profession program of choice. Answer honestly to see where your strengths are, and where you might need to do more work before applying. 

1. Pre-Health Readiness Self-Assessment
2. Pre-Nursing Readiness Self-Assessment
3. Workshop Resources and Recordings

Each health profession program has its own set of prerequisites designed to ensure applicants are equipped with the essential skills and knowledge needed for success. 

Find out which SFSU courses are typically required to meet the prerequisites for health profession programs. This easy-to-use prerequisite guide will help you plan your classes and get ready for a future in health care. 

We strongly recommend working with your advisor to develop an educational plan that includes the necessary prerequisite coursework for your programs of interest. Please also consult with your advisor about coursework completed outside of SFSU. 

Pre-Health Prerequisites Guide 

Many health profession programs require standardized test scores as part of the admissions application.  

We encourage you to learn more about the various exams and how best to prepare.

• Types of standardized tests

The personal statement is one of the most important parts of the application process, as it provides the selection committee with insight into who you are as an individual. Your goal is to engage the committee and inspire their investment in your future.   

When writing your personal statement, consider these guidelines: 

1. Adhere to the requirements: If there is a word limit, aim to stay within it. Application reviewers read hundreds of statements each cycle, so being succinct will help you keep their attention. Use 12-point font unless directed otherwise.
2. Answer the questions directly: This may seem obvious, but many applicants write in circles without addressing the actual questions. Consider rephrasing the question in your answer to ensure that you have provided an answer.
3. Proofread: Grammar and spelling mistakes can quickly discredit your communication skills and attention to detail. Be sure to have multiple people review your writing before submitting your personal statement.
4. Seek support: Take advantage of these campus resources for help with your statement
   • Grad Studies Workshops
   • Tutoring and Academic Support Center (TASC)
   • Career and Leadership Development (CLD)
5. Address any unusual circumstances: If you have faced hardships that impacted your academic performance or other unusual circumstances that may have led to an irregular academic record, consider explaining these in your statement

After reviewing your application and test scores, you may be invited for an interview. This is your opportunity to share your authentic self with the admissions committee. 

Be prepared to discuss your motivations for pursuing health care, your strengths and your areas for growth. Be honest and positive in your responses. It is also recommended to stay informed about current topics and issues in health care. 

When preparing for your interview, consider these guidelines: 

1. Research the program: While you may have conducted some preliminary research about the program before submitting your application, it is essential to become well versed in its mission, requirements, opportunities, resources and values ahead of the interview.
2. Prepare for commonly asked interview questions:
   1. American Association of Medical Colleges Commonly Asked Interview Questions
   2. CSU Long Beach Interviewing for Health Professions Guide
3. Consider your questions for the program: What do you need to know about this program to decide whether it is the right fit for you? The interview is a valuable opportunity to ask direct questions about the student experience, opportunities for research and clinical work, supportive resources and more.