Applying to medical school is a major financial commitment. Between MCAT registration, primary applications, secondary fees, and preparation materials, total costs can easily exceed $2,000.
The Association of American Medical Colleges Fee Assistance Program (FAP) is designed to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent qualified students from pursuing a career in medicine.
If you are eligible, this program offers benefits worth over $2,000, including MCAT fee waivers, application fee waivers, and free preparation resources. Everything you need to know about the 2026 application process is provided here.
What Is the AAMC Fee Assistance Program?
The AAMC Fee Assistance Program helps individuals with limited financial resources and reduces the costs associated with applying to medical school.
It helps cover expenses such as:
- MCAT registration
- MCAT preparation materials
- AMCAS application fees
The program aims to create equal opportunities for all aspiring physicians, regardless of financial background.
Benefits for 2026 Applicants
Approved applicants receive substantial financial support:
| Benefit | Standard Cost | FAP Cost |
|---|---|---|
| MCAT Registration | $355 | $145 |
| AMCAS (first school) | $175 | $0 |
| Additional schools (up to 20) | $47 each | $0 |
| MCAT Official Prep Bundle | $390 | Free |
| MSAR (2 years) | $36 | Free |
| PREview Exam | $100 | Free (first attempt) |
| ERAS Applications | Varies | 60% discount |
Total value: Over $2,000 in savings
Eligibility Requirements for AAMC Fee Assistance Program
To qualify for the AAMC Fee Assistance Program Application, you must meet all of the following criteria:
1. U.S.-Based Address
You must have a valid U.S. home address. Documentation must include:
- Your full name
- Current address
- Issue date within the last 60 days
2. Income Requirements
Your total household income must be less than or equal to 400% of the U.S. poverty level for your family size.
- Includes your income and your parents’ income (if under 26)
- Based on the most recent tax year (2025 for 2026 applications)
3. Applicant Status
You must:
- Be planning to apply to medical school
- Not be currently enrolled in any medical school (MD, DO, or international)
- Not be a medical school graduate
- Not be applying for residency
Note: If you were previously accepted but withdrew, you may still qualify.
Important: Parental Financial Information
- Under 26 years old: Parental financial details are required (even if you file taxes independently)
- 26 or older: Parental information is not required
AAMC Fee Assistance Program Application Process – How to Apply?
The application opened in February 2026 and runs through December 2026. You can fill out the application.
Step 1: Create or Log In to Your AAMC Account:
- Go to the official AAMC website.
- Create your account and log in.
- Ensure your profile is complete and accurate.
Step 2: Enter Personal Information
- Provide contact details and proof of your U.S. address.
Step 3: Submit Financial Information
Prepare the following documents:
- Federal tax returns (previous year)
- W-2 or 1099 forms (if applicable)
- Proof of address
- Financial aid award letters
- Documentation of additional income (if any)
Step 4: Add Parental Information (If Required)
- Applicants under 26 must include full financial details for their parents.
Step 5: Review and Submit
- Double-check all entries for accuracy before submitting.
Step 6: Accept Terms
- Agree to the certification statement and submit your application.
Once submitted, it typically takes AAMC 5 to 10 business days to verify your documents. You will receive an email notification once your status is updated to “Approved,” “Denied,” or “On Hold” (if the documents are incomplete).
After You Submit your AAMC Fee Assistance Program Application
Processing Time
- Initial status: Submitted / On Hold
- After documents: Pending Verification
- Typical processing time: up to 10 business days
Approval and Validity
- Benefits are available immediately after approval
- Valid until December 31 of the following year
Example: Approval in 2026 remains valid until December 31, 2027
If Your Application Is Denied
- You can appeal only if incorrect information was submitted.
Important Warning: Benefits Are Not Retroactive
If you pay for MCAT registration, preparation materials, or AMCAS submission before approval, you will not be reimbursed. Always apply before taking any major steps.
Application Limits
- Apply once per calendar year
- Maximum of 5 lifetime approvals
Secondary Benefits: Medical School Fee Waivers
Many medical schools waive secondary application fees for FAP recipients.
Examples include:
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
- Brody School of Medicine
- University at Buffalo
Check each school’s policy in the MSAR database.
Additional Discounts for FAP Recipients
Some prep companies offer extra discounts:
- Kaplan – Up to 60% off MCAT prep
- Blueprint MCAT – Financial aid options available
These discounts can further reduce preparation costs.
Deadlines & Validity
If your application is approved in 2026, your benefits will remain valid until December 31, 2027.
| Approval Year | Benefits Expire |
| Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2026 | Dec 31, 2027 |
| Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2027 | Dec 31, 2028 |
FAQs
How long does it take to get approved for the AAMC Fee Assistance Program?
After submitting all necessary documents, it may take AAMC up to 10 business days to review your application and make a decision.
When does AAMC fee assistance open 2026?
Applications for the AAMC Fee Assistance Program 2026 will open on Monday, February 2, 2026. The application will remain open until December 2026.
What does the AAMC Fee Assistance Program cover?
The AAMC Fee Assistance Program (FAP) offers a comprehensive set of benefits valued at over $2,000 to help medical school applicants overcome financial barriers. If approved in 2026, your benefits will remain valid until December 31, 2027.
Conclusion
The AAMC Fee Assistance Program is one of the most valuable resources available to pre-med students facing financial challenges. With benefits exceeding $2,000, it can significantly reduce the cost of applying to medical school.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, apply as early as possible in 2026 to take full advantage of this program.
