what should be the turnaround time for secondaries

2 min read 15-04-2025

what should be the turnaround time for secondaries

Applying to medical school is a marathon, not a sprint. The secondary application process, while crucial, often leaves applicants feeling overwhelmed. One major source of anxiety? Knowing how long it should take to complete secondary essays. This article will help you understand reasonable turnaround times for secondary applications, and strategies to manage your time effectively.

Understanding the Secondary Application Process

Medical school secondary applications are supplemental essays and questionnaires requested after you submit your primary application (AMCAS, AACOMAS, TMDSAS). These secondaries delve deeper into your experiences, motivations, and fit with a specific school. Each school has its own unique application, adding complexity.

Why Turnaround Time Matters

Meeting deadlines is paramount. Late applications are often rejected outright. Equally important is the quality of your submission. Rushing leads to poorly written, unpolished essays. This reflects poorly on your application. Aim for a balance: timely submission without sacrificing quality.

Recommended Turnaround Time for Secondaries

There's no single "correct" answer, as individual circumstances vary. However, a sensible guideline is to aim for completion within 1-2 weeks per secondary application. This allows for thorough brainstorming, drafting, revising, and proofreading.

Factors Affecting Turnaround Time

Several factors influence how long it takes to complete each secondary:

Essay Prompts: Some prompts are straightforward; others require extensive reflection and research.
Personal Circumstances: Balancing secondaries with other commitments (work, classes, extracurriculars) impacts your available time.
Essay Length & Complexity: Longer, more nuanced essays understandably require more time.
Number of Secondaries: Managing multiple applications simultaneously presents a significant time management challenge.

Strategies for Efficient Secondary Application Completion

Effective time management is key. Here's a breakdown of strategies to manage your workload:

1. Create a Master Schedule

Develop a realistic schedule accounting for all deadlines. Use a calendar or spreadsheet to track progress. Include buffer time for unexpected delays.

2. Prioritize Based on Deadlines

Focus on the earliest deadlines first. This prevents last-minute rushes.

3. Batch Similar Tasks

Group similar tasks together (e.g., brainstorming for multiple essays). This streamlines your workflow, improving efficiency.

4. Break Down the Process

Divide each secondary into manageable steps: research, brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising, and proofreading. This prevents feeling overwhelmed.

5. Leverage Resources

Utilize resources like writing centers, mentors, or friends for feedback and support. A fresh perspective can significantly improve your essays.

Addressing Specific Time Constraints

Some applicants face tighter deadlines due to personal commitments or a large number of applications. If you’re facing a time crunch:

Prioritize: Focus on your top-choice schools first.
Seek Help: Don't hesitate to ask for assistance from friends, family, or mentors.
Accept Imperfection: While aiming for high quality, understand that perfection is often unattainable under pressure. Strive for your best work within the constraints.

Conclusion: Balancing Speed and Quality in Secondary Applications

Successfully navigating the secondary application process requires a strategic approach. While a 1-2 week turnaround per secondary is a reasonable target, prioritize quality over speed. A well-crafted, thoughtful essay is far more valuable than a rushed, poorly written one. By planning effectively, managing your time wisely, and seeking support when needed, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to prioritize your well-being throughout this demanding process!