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 Medical Education in California

There are 16 medical schools in California, 13 allopathic (MD) medical schools, and 3 osteopathic (DO) medical schools. Do note that the list below isn’t indicative of one school being “better” than another. All schools on this list are fantastic, world-class medical schools from which you can launch a successful medical career.

Allopathic Medical Schools (MD)

• California Northstate University College of Medicine
• California University of Science and Medicine
• Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science
• Kaiser Permanente Medical School
• Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California
• Loma Linda University School of Medicine
• Stanford University School of Medicine
• UC Davis School of Medicine
• UC Irvine School of Medicine
• UCLA (UC Los Angeles) David Geffen School of Medicine
• UC Riverside School of Medicine
• UC San Diego School of Medicine
• UC San Francisco School of Medicine

Osteopathic Medical Schools (DO)

• California Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Western University of Health Sciences – College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific

California Medical School Locations

California is quite a large state, which is why it’s generally divided into Northern California (NorCal) and Southern California (SoCal), and while they comprise the same state, there are quite a few differences between the two. Most of California’s medical schools reside in Southern California.

Southern California holds 11 of California’s 16 medical schools. It stretches all the way to Tijuana, Mexico and is known for its flatter desert landscape and year-round sunshine. Northern California is where the remaining five California medical schools can be found, occupying the San Francisco Bay Area up to the Oregon border. NorCal is known for its mountainous and volcanic geography and changing seasons with some rain and even snow.

Yearly Tuition Costs (2023 Data)

Tuition will vary from school to school. Below are the yearly tuition costs for selected institutions:

• California Northstate University College of Medicine: $74,456 (In-State) / $74,456 (Out-of-State)
• California University of Science and Medicine: $70,162 (In-State) / $70,162 (Out-of-State)
• USC School of Medicine (Keck): Approximately $74,000

Profiles of Leading Medical Schools

1) 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. About 90 students are selected each year to join a close-knit cohort passionate about pioneering research, creative teaching protocols, and effective clinical therapies. 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.

• Location: Stanford
• Acceptance Rate: 2.3% (approx.)
• Average GPA: 3.89
• Median MCAT: 519

2) 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. Located in sunny Pasadena, it has six clinical training sites for students to gain hands-on experience starting in their first year. Its unique curriculum emphasizes early and frequent patient interactions, providing students with practical skills and a deep understanding of patient-centered care.

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

3) 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
• Acceptance Rate: 4% (approx.)
• Average GPA: 3.58
• Average MCAT: 509

4) 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. The school boasts extensive research opportunities, collaborating with cutting-edge labs and healthcare facilities, making it an ideal choice for those passionate about both clinical practice and innovative research.

• Location: Riverside
• Acceptance Rate: 3.71%
• Average GPA: 3.60 (BCPM)
• Average MCAT: 508

5) Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

Founded in 1966 and located in Los Angeles, this institution 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. Students have the unique opportunity to provide for the health needs of homeless youth, adults, and families in southern Los Angeles.

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