The Mayo Clinic Undergraduate Plummer Scholars (UPS) is an online training program designed to expose, excite, and engage undergraduates with high potential of pursuing a career in medicine.

The program spans nine months during the academic school year and includes distance learning webinars on topics including Med School 101, How to Use Your Summer, MCAT Prep Overview, Admissions Representative and Ask-A-Med Student about the medical student experience, and the medical school application and interview process.

Webinars are conducted via Zoom and are held on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. Central Time every other month. The webinar program dates are Oct. 18, Dec. 13, Feb. 21, and April 18.

Application process

Prerequisites

The UPS Academic Year Program is open to current sophomores or equivalent with a 3.2 GPA. Mayo Clinic UPS Academic Program welcomes all applicants. If you anticipate experiencing disability related barriers in the program, please contact Disability Access Services at MCCMS.DS@mayo.edu

Application timeline

Application window	Application Link	Program dates
CLOSED	Click here	October 18, December 13, February 21, and April 18

Application instructions

Complete the following steps to apply:

1. Create an account to begin the online application.
   • School of Study - Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science Experience
   • Area of Interest - Undergraduate Plummer Scholars
2. Once logged in, select Create a New Application
3. Select Start a Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science Experience Application
4. Complete each section of the application and submit

Acceptance

The application is currently closed. All applicants have been notified of acceptance. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Program Overview 

What is the Undergraduate Plummer Scholars Academic Year (UPS-AY) Program? 
The UPS Program is a nine-month, academic-year virtual experience designed to expose and prepare undergraduate students for a career in medicine. Through online information sessions, scholars gain insight into medical education and the application process. 

Who is eligible to apply? 
Current undergraduate sophomores (or equivalent standing, including juniors, seniors and post bacc) who are interested in pursuing a medical career may apply. Students from groups underrepresented in medicine or from diverse backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply. Must meet a 3.2 gpa and commit to attending bimonthly webinars. 

What is the goal of the program? 
UPS aims to help students strengthen their preparation for medical school by providing information on the medical school application process, and exposure to medical student career paths. 

What are the program dates? 
The UPS Academic Year program typically runs from October through April. Application periods and session dates may vary annually; for example, applications for the 2025–2026 cycle open August 1 – September 1, with decisions announced by October 1. 

What activities are included? 

• Interactive virtual sessions (approximately every other month) 

• Webinars on topics such as: 

• Medical School 101 

• How To Use Your Summer 

• MCAT Preparation Overview 

• Admissions Representative and Student Panel 

How is the program delivered? 
All activities take place virtually via online platforms such as Zoom. 

How many students are selected each year? 
The cohort size varies, but typically includes dozens of students from colleges and universities nationwide. 

Is there any cost to participate? 
No tuition or participation fee. The program is educational and preparatory in nature. 

Do participants receive academic credit or a stipend? 
No. UPS is a professional development program and does not provide college credit or a stipend. 

How do I apply? 
Applications are submitted through the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science online portal. Applicants complete a short form. 

What makes a strong applicant? 
Successful applicants typically show: 

• A clear interest in a physician career 

• Strong academic performance 

• Engagement in premedical or service activities 

• Enthusiasm for learning from mentors and peers 

• Commitment to attending all webinars 

Does participation in UPS guarantee admission to medical school? 
No. However, it provides valuable preparation, and insight that can help strengthen future applications. 

Who can I contact for more information? 
Visit the Undergraduate Plummer Scholars (UPS) Program page on Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science or email educationengagement@mayo.edu for questions.