Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
MD Program

Johnson Scholars Program

Johnson Scholars Program

The Johnson Scholars Program (JSP) is a pre-medical enrichment program that fosters the preparation and competitiveness of Penn undergraduates whose life and/or familial experiences may make it more difficult for them to achieve their goal of a career in medicine. To support student success, the JSP recruits entering first-year students interested in becoming a physician, and then provides a progressive, 4-year set of tiered mentoring, advising, and enrichment experiences with achievement milestones for continued participation in the program. Students interested in applying should contact the Career Services Office at the University of Pennsylvania.

Program Components

  • Professional development seminars
  • Career narratives with physicians
  • Learning support
  • Community engagement and service
  • Leadership opportunities
  • Clinical and research opportunities
  • Community with like-minded pre-medical peers
  • Mentorship from PSOM faculty, medical students, and admissions professionals
  • AND MORE!

Eligibility

The application for Fall 2025 is primarily open to first-year undergraduates (“freshmen") who are enrolled and matriculating to the University of Pennsylvania in Fall 2025. We have very limited availability to select 1 or 2 high-performing second-year undergraduates ("sophomores") this year. Please read and complete all questions carefully prior to submitting your application. Selected applicants will be notified of decisions around September 10, 2025. Click here for more information and to apply.

Program Goals

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4
  • Build a strong academic foundation
  • Receive mentoring and advising
  • Volunteer in healthcare
  • Professional development
  • Leadership development
  • Community engagement
  • Prepare for summer research
  • MCAT preparation
  • Apply to pathway programs
  • Identify faculty for pre-health committee letter process
  • Apply to medical school
  • Provide near-peer mentoring as a student mentor

Program Timeline

Application Opens: Open now!!
Deadline to apply: September 1, 2025

Contact Information

gsc@pennmedicine.upenn.edu