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MD + DO funding
How to pay for medical school.
Compare scholarships, service commitments, federal aid, and borrowing strategies for the long road through medical training.
Published by Professional School Funding · Reviewed June 6, 2026
Keep the decision focused Four years of school. One funding strategy.
Know the full cost, reduce the gap, and borrow in the right order.
A sensible order
Start with money you do not repay.
Then compare service programs, family support, federal loans, and private options in that order.
Price service programs
Compare NHSC, military, state, and employer programs by both dollars and years of commitment.
Model residency income
Plan repayment around the income gap between graduation, residency, fellowship, and attending practice.
Before you sign
Translate the award letter into real life.
Tuition is only one line. Include fees, insurance, equipment, exams, travel, and realistic living costs before deciding what you can afford.
Use the funding gap calculatorProducts and services
We are reviewing tools for medical school applicants and students.
Recommendations will include cost, limitations, who each option suits, and a clear disclosure when a link can earn us money.
See our review standards →