New partnership gives ISU health science students streamlined path to medical school at Midwestern University

A new partnership gives health science students at Illinois State University a streamlined path to medical school and other health care professions.

An agreement with Midwestern University guarantees interviews for qualified ISU students applying to Midwestern’s programs in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, optometry, podiatric medicine, veterinary medicine and other health sciences disciplines.

This agreement will start with the incoming class matriculating in Fall 2026, and also guarantees acceptance into some select graduate degree programs through Midwestern University’s College of Graduate Studies for qualified applicants from ISU.

To be considered a qualified applicant, students must complete required prerequisite coursework, maintain program-specific grade point averages, satisfy standardized test requirements for the desired program [such as the MCAT exam]meet technical standards and demonstrate relevant health care or shadowing experience prior to enrollment.

ISU Vice President for Academic Affairs Ani Yazedjian said in a news release the university is excited about the opportunities this creates for students.

“Our students are well prepared for the rigor of graduate education, and this agreement recognizes that preparation by offering students, particularly those in the natural sciences, a direct opportunity to interview for admission to selected allied health and medical degree programs,” Yazedjian said. “This partnership creates a valuable new pathway for Illinois State students pursuing careers in healthcare and medicine.”

The articulation agreement includes programs across both Midwestern University campuses in the Chicago suburbs and Glendale, Arizona.