Do you have questions about the freshman direct-entry Early Acceptance Program? We have answers! Check out some of our most frequently asked questions.
Do I need to submit a test score to be considered for the freshman direct-entry EAP?
Yes, official ACT or SAT scores are required to be considered for this program. We do accept superscores! To be considered, you must have one of the following:
- ACT composite of 28 or higher with a math sub-score of 22 or higher
- SAT composite of 1310 or higher with a math SAT of 540 or higher
For a test score to be considered official, we must receive it directly from the testing agency, your high school or the Common Application. The last test score date we will accept for fall 2025 applicants is the February testing opportunity. Should you opt to take the February ACT, your scores will need to be sent in a timely fashion to arrive in time for consideration with your application.
Beginning in April 2025, the ACT science section will become optional. Students applying to the EAP are required to submit scores from the section section; these scores will be reported separately from the composite score.
If your test scores do not meet the minimum requirements for the freshman direct-entry EAP, we encourage you to explore our other pre-medicine partnerships and opportunities.
How will my dual enrollment courses, Advanced Placement credits, and/or IB courses transfer?
Dual enrollment courses, AP credit and IB credit can be transferred to Rockhurst University for this program. For dual enrollment courses, you must receive a C or above in order for this credit to count—this coursework will be factored into your program GPA. Click here to see more information on how your credits may transfer.
If I am admitted to the program, do I need to take the MCAT, DAT, or GRE?
No, the MCAT, DAT, or GRE are not required in order to matriculate to KCU.
How many students are accepted for each of the three cohorts?
As this is a new opportunity for Rockhurst applicants starting for fall 2025, no data is currently available. KCU has space for 25 in the accelerated medical school cohort annually, 10 in the dental cohort, and 5 in the anesthesiologist assistant cohort.
Can I major in something other than molecular biology?
All students in the freshman-direct entry EAP are required to major in Biology (Molecular track), as this major is best aligned with the undergraduate curriculum requirements set by KCU.
Can I apply to other medical or dental schools if I am a part of this program?
No, students are not allowed to apply to other schools if they are a part of the freshman direct-entry EAP. Students who choose to apply elsewhere forfeit their offer of early acceptance and may apply via the traditional path with all other students.
Am I able to study abroad?
Yes! One of the benefits of this program is the opportunity to complete a short-term study abroad experience that happens in between the end of the spring semester and the start of the summer semester. Completing one of these study abroad experiences also fulfills the remaining Wisdom Core requirements: two Keystone courses and one Threshold course.
Do I really have the opportunity to earn three degrees in seven years? What does automatic acceptance into Rockhurst’s MBA mean?
Yes, you can earn your BS, DO/DMD and an MBA in seven years! If you are accepted into this program, you are also automatically accepted into Rockhurst’s dual degree MBA in Healthcare Leadership, which means you will complete your MBA coursework while you complete your graduate-level DO/DMD coursework. You are NOT required to complete an MBA to participate in this program, but this is a phenomenal opportunity that is unique to the Rockhurst-KCU partnership.
What is the difference between a DO and MD?
The main difference between a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) is their approach to patient care. Students in both degrees take similar coursework, have the ability to prescribe medicine, and take licensing exams. DOs take holistic approach to medicine, while MDs take a more allopathic, or illness-based approach. DOs receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), a hands-on method of diagnosing and treating patients.
Does the freshman direct-entry EAP shorten the length of time I will spend in school?
Yes, students will complete their undergraduate degree in three years and their DO or DMD in four years, for a total of seven years. The traditional timeline to complete a bachelor’s degree and a DO or DMD degree is eight years. Students who select the Master of Health Sciences in Anesthesiologist Assistant (MHS-AA) will complete both degrees in 5.5 years.
Does my financial aid cover all years of the program?
You are eligible for undergraduate scholarships and need-based financial aid during the first three years in the program*. Once you matriculate to KCU at the end of your third year, their financial aid office can help you learn how to fund your medical/graduate education.
*There are summer course requirements that may not be covered by financial aid or scholarships.
Are international students able to participate in this program?
International students who hold an F1 visa may participate in the program. International students living and attending school outside the United States who are invited to interview may be offered a virtual interview opportunity.
I have additional questions. Who should I contact?
Your admission counselor is always available to answer questions! You may also contact Annie Lee, Co-Director of the Pre-Health Program, at annie.lee@rockhurst.edu.