What is VSAS?
The Visiting Student Application Service (VSAS®) is an AAMC application designed to streamline the application process for senior "away" electives. VSAS enables medical students to submit just one application for all institutions, effectively reducing paperwork, miscommunication, and time.
With VSAS®, you'll only need to complete one application for all participating institutions This reduces paperwork, saves time, and facilitates communication between applicants and institutions.
When do I start looking for away rotations?
The sooner the better, many programs have a limited number of spots because they have to first provide space for their home students. Competitive programs are known to cap their spots as early as spring. If you are highly interested in a specific school – either look on VSAS or call the program administrator to find out what date the program begins accepting applications.
Ideally, you will want to obtain your rotation either in July, August or September; however, July is often difficult because schools give preference to their own students first. While October, November and December are still viable options, remember that ERAS begins accepting applications in September and you want to have your letters of recommendation / SLOE’s completed or near completed by this time.
What do I need in order to apply through VSAS?
Using the authorizations provided by the Curriculum Office in early January, you will need to log in to the VSAS system and register. Authorizations are required for you to register.
Most schools will require:
** Each school has their own “check-list” so you will need to check VSAS or the schools website to find out what additional information is required.
