University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine

Q: How important are secondary essays?

Secondary essays are a critical component of your application. They provide University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine with insight into your fit with their mission, values, and program. Strong secondary essays can strengthen a borderline application, while weak essays can hurt even strong candidates.

Q: Can I reuse essays from other secondaries?

While some prompts may be similar across schools, never directly copy-paste essays. Each response should be tailored specifically to University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, demonstrating genuine interest and research into their unique programs, mission, and values.

Q: What if I don't have anything for a diversity essay?

Diversity encompasses far more than race or ethnicity. Consider your unique perspective, background, experiences, challenges you've overcome, or how you'll contribute to a diverse learning environment. What makes YOUR voice unique at the table?

Los Angeles, CA

2026 Secondary Essay Prompts

Essay 3

Question 3: Describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted your pathway to medical school. Include any academic, personal, financial or professional barriers, as well as other relevant information. (800 characters)

Essay 4

Question 4: Did you experience or are you anticipating time between graduating from college and matriculating into medical school? If yes, describe the activities in which you participated or are planning to participate. Examples include additional schooling, employment, or caring for a loved one. (800 characters)

Essay 5

Question 5: Do you identify as being part of a group that has been marginalized (examples include, but are not limited to, LGBTQIA, disabilities, federally recognized tribe) in terms of access to education or healthcare? If you answered “Yes” to the above, answer the following prompt: Describe how this inequity has impacted you or your community and how educational disparity, health disparity and/or marginalization has impacted you and your community. (800 characters)

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General Secondary Tips

Submit within 2 weeks: Turn around your secondary quickly to show genuine interest
Research the school: Reference specific programs, values, or opportunities at University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine
Be specific: Use concrete examples and stories, not vague generalizations
Proofread carefully: Typos and grammatical errors signal carelessness
Respect word limits: Admissions committees read hundreds of essays—be concise

Secondary Essay FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

When will I receive University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine's secondary application?

How important are secondary essays?

Can I reuse essays from other secondaries?

What if I don't have anything for a diversity essay?

Am I Competitive?

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Essay Writing Resources

Medical School Secondary Essays: Complete Strategy Guide

How to approach every prompt type, timing, and school-specific tips

Medical School Personal Statement Guide

Write a compelling narrative that sets you apart

Medical School Interview Preparation

Traditional, MMI & panel formats — what to expect and how to prepare