The 16 Best Medical Schools in California 2025-26

If you’re considering medical schools in California, you’ve got no shortage of options. From vibrant urban settings to picturesque landscapes, the state hosts dozens of renowned institutions, each with its own unique programs and research opportunities. In this article, we provide you with an overview of California’s medical schools, including their locations, class sizes, program offerings, curricula, and distinctive features. Whether you’re a prospective medical student or simply curious about California’s medical education scene, this guide will help you navigate your options.

Overview of the California Medical Education Landscape

There are 16 medical schools in California, 13 of which are allopathic. Getting into a medical school in California is a very common goal among premed students given the state’s high-ranking programs, reduced in-state tuition at public institutions, idyllic weather, and cultural diversity. Unfortunately, California med school admissions are also incredibly difficult due to schools’ competitive stats, the large state population, and the massive number of applications each program receives. All schools on this list are fantastic, world-class medical schools from which you can launch a successful medical career.

Admissions Statistics and Trends

While compiling this information, we observed the following trends:

• Tuition and fees to attend California medical schools are comparable to schools outside of California.
• While out-of-state students must pay more than in-state students at public California (i.e., UC) med schools, tuition and fees for out-of-state UC students are still lower than all California private schools’ tuition and fees.
• California residents enjoy higher interview rates at most schools.

Profiles of Top Medical Schools

Kaiser Permanente Tyson School of Medicine

Matriculating its inaugural class of 50 students in 2020, the Kaiser Permanente Tyson School of Medicine stands out for its innovative curriculum that integrates classroom learning with extensive clinical practice. Its unique curriculum emphasizes early and frequent patient interactions, providing students with practical skills and a deep understanding of patient-centered care. This approach ensures graduates are exceptionally well-prepared for medical practice, setting it apart in medical education.

• Location: Pasadena
• Average GPA: 3.68
• Average MCAT: 516
• Degree: MD

Stanford University School of Medicine

Considered a leader in the biomedical revolution, Stanford School of Medicine is one of the top-ranked medical schools in the nation. Students benefit from an exceptionally rich research environment, with opportunities to engage in groundbreaking studies spanning areas like biotechnology, genomics, and artificial intelligence, thanks to its strategic location in the heart of Silicon Valley. About 90 students are selected each year to join a close-knit cohort passionate about pioneering research, creative teaching protocols, and effective clinical therapies.

• Location: Stanford
• Average GPA: 3.89
• Median MCAT: 519
• Degree: MD

UC Davis School of Medicine

Located near Sacramento, the UC Davis School of Medicine provides a dynamic learning environment with an annual class size of about 130 students. The school places significant focus on addressing healthcare needs in underserved populations. Prior to their clerkship, students gain substantial practical experience, often by working in one of seven student-run clinics located in inner-city communities.

• Location: Sacramento
• Average GPA: 3.58
• Average MCAT: 509
• Degree: MD

UC Riverside School of Medicine

With a small annual class size (typically around 100 students), UC Riverside School of Medicine offers an intimate learning environment. It provides both MD and MD/PhD programs, emphasizing primary care and underserved communities. Students can specialize in concentrations such as Global Health or Biomedical Sciences.

• Location: Riverside
• Average GPA: 3.60 (BCPM)
• Average MCAT: 508
• Degree: MD

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

Founded in 1966, the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science maintains a selective annual class size, typically admitting around 30 students. It offers programs in medicine, nursing, and allied health, with a unique focus on addressing healthcare disparities and fostering diversity within the healthcare workforce. Given the school’s location in southern Los Angeles, students have the unique opportunity to provide for the health needs of homeless youth, adults, and families.

• Location: Los Angeles
• Average GPA: ~3.5
• Degree: MD