Committee Letters

Health Professions Advisement Committee

Medical, dental, and optometry schools have a distinct preference for a "committee letter" over individual letters of recommendation. This preference is so strong that some schools will not consider applicants without a committee letter if their undergraduate institution offers them.

The letter is called a “committee letter” because it reflects the support of a committee who work with applicants and are in a position to evaluate their preparedness for entry into professional school. SIU is pleased to offer Committee letters to qualified applicants through its Health Professions Advisement Committee (HPAC).

The HPAC is composed of expert faculty and staff from across the university, including representatives from Microbiology, Mathematics, Physiology, Biological Sciences, and the SIU School of Medicine. This diverse panel ensures a comprehensive and fair evaluation of every pre-health candidate.

Cycle for 2027 Admissions Update: The SIU Pre-Health Professions Office is currently updating the evaluation process for upcoming application cycle(s). Students who are applying for 2027 professional school entry, as well as professional school admissions officers who require additional information, are asked to contact the Pre-Health Professions Coordinator. 

Further details regarding the updated process, including specific requirements and timelines, will be shared on this page as they are finalized. Please check back for additional information in the coming months.