Your journey to becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine starts with one crucial step: applying through AACOMAS. But what is AACOMAS exactly? The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS) serves as the centralized application service for aspiring DO students, streamlining your path to osteopathic medical education.
Understanding AACOMAS and Its Role
AACOMAS functions as the primary application portal managed by the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM). This comprehensive platform allows you to submit one standardized application to multiple osteopathic medical schools, saving time and simplifying the complex application process. AACOMAS manages the submission of transcripts, MCAT scores, and letters of recommendation while distributing completed applications to selected osteopathic medical schools.
The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM)
AACOM oversees AACOMAS and serves as the unified voice for osteopathic medical education in the United States. The organization was founded to support and advance the distinct philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine. It coordinates efforts across all accredited osteopathic medical colleges to ensure high-quality education and training for future DOs.
AACOM's Core Mission
AACOM works tirelessly to promote excellence in osteopathic medical education, research, and service. Through their comprehensive website at www.aacom.org, they provide invaluable resources for:
Prospective students exploring osteopathic medicine as a career
Current osteopathic medical students seeking educational resources
Faculty and administrators at osteopathic medical colleges
Practicing DOs pursuing continuing education
Researchers advancing osteopathic medical knowledge
Additionally, AACOM advocates for policies that support osteopathic medical education at both federal and state levels, ensuring the profession’s continued growth and recognition.
Impressive Growth in Osteopathic Medicine
AACOM's impact on medical education in America is substantial and growing. Currently, more than 25 percent of all U.S. medical students choose osteopathic medical education—a testament to the increasing recognition of the DO approach to patient care.
The organization oversees 42 U.S. colleges of osteopathic medicine operating across 67 teaching locations in 36 states. This expansive network ensures accessibility to osteopathic medical education throughout the country.
The quality of this education is evident in the outcomes—a record 92.3 percent of DO students matched into residency programs across 48 medical specialties in 2024, demonstrating the competitive strength of osteopathic medical graduates.
Educational Resources and Support
What is AACOMAS providing beyond just application processing? As part of AACOM's comprehensive services, the application system connects students with extensive educational resources:
Detailed profiles of all osteopathic medical schools
Application guidance and preparation materials
Financial aid and scholarship information
Interview preparation resources
Timeline management tools for application cycles
AACOM's website offers special sections for various stakeholders in osteopathic medical education:
"Become a Doctor" resources for prospective students
"Medical Education" materials for current students and faculty
"Residency & GME" guidance for graduating students
"News & Research" to keep the community informed
"Policy & Advocacy" updates on legislative initiatives
AACOM Events and Professional Development
AACOM hosts numerous events fostering professional growth and community within osteopathic medicine. Their flagship event, "Educating Leaders," serves as the premier annual conference bringing together osteopathic medical education professionals from across the country.
The 2025 conference, scheduled for April 9-11 in Arlington, Texas, will unite leaders, faculty, staff, and students for three days of networking, thought leadership, and interactive sessions. RxTBOM, a major sponsor of the event, plays a vital role in supporting workshops, presentations, and networking opportunities for the osteopathic medical community.
Research and Data Collection
Understanding AACOMAS also involves recognizing AACOM’s role in shaping the future of osteopathic medical education through research. AACOM conducts extensive surveys and research initiatives that shape the future of osteopathic medical education.
Their Graduating Senior Survey provides valuable insights into student experiences and career choices. Recent data revealed that of 7,859 total DO graduates, more than 4,100 graduating seniors responded to AACOM's survey. Twenty-five percent reported entering an ACGME residency with osteopathic recognition, while fifty-four percent plan to specialize in primary care disciplines.
These research efforts help guide curriculum development, address student needs, and demonstrate the significant contribution of osteopathic physicians to the healthcare landscape.
Using AACOMAS Effectively
To ensure a smooth application process, follow these steps when applying through AACOMAS:
- Create your account early at www.aacom.org and familiarize yourself with the application requirements
- Gather all necessary documents before beginning your application
- Request official transcripts and letters of recommendation well in advance
- Craft thoughtful responses to application essays
- Review your application thoroughly before submission
- Monitor your application status regularly through the portal
The AACOMAS application typically opens in May for the following year's entering class, with most schools beginning to review applications in June. Planning your timeline accordingly ensures you meet all deadlines.
Access to Career Development
It's important to recognize AACOM's ongoing support throughout your medical career. Their Job Connection service helps osteopathic physicians find career opportunities that align with their training and philosophy.
Whether you're seeking faculty positions, clinical opportunities, or research roles, AACOM provides resources to advance your career within the osteopathic medical community.
Next Steps in Your Osteopathic Medical Journey
What is AACOMAS? It's the beginning of your path to becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. As you prepare your application, remember that organizations like RxTBOM are dedicated to supporting your journey from medical school to professional practice.
RxTBOM's sponsorship of AACOM's "Educating Leaders" conference reflects their commitment to osteopathic medical education and their dedication to helping DOs navigate the business side of medical practice.
Start your journey today by visiting www.aacom.org today to explore the wealth of resources available and begin your AACOMAS application. A bright future in osteopathic medicine awaits, with AACOM and partners like RxTBOM ready to support your success every step of the way.