A scoping review of the upstream influences of admissions policies on applicant behaviour

Don’t hate the player, hate the game

Datos Bibliográficos

ID21448768
AutoresAngela Huang (0000-0003-2697-3719, McMaster University), Angela J Huang (0009-0002-1644-4696, McMaster University), Caroline Caswell (McMaster University), Stacey A Ritz (0009-0008-6192-182X, McMaster University), Lawrence Grierson (0000-0003-0739-5976, McMaster University, autor de correspondencia)
Año2026
Volumen48
Número7
Páginas1259-1268
Fecha de publicación2026-07-03
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaMedical Teacher (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 0142-159X • E-ISSN: 1466-187X
EditorialInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/0142159x.2026.2614602
PMID41549964
OpenAlexW7124677884
IdiomaEN
Referencias citadas49

INTRODUCTION: Anecdotes from university faculty and educational leaders suggest that medical school admissions policies are driving aspirant behavior in unintended ways. This paper reviews the existing literature for evidence of admission policies' upstream impact on applicant behavior. METHODS: We used a scoping review to summarize research published between 1980-2025, written in English, with empirical evidence of medical school applicants' behaviors being driven by admissions policies. RESULTS: Fifteen papers were included in the review. These revealed three types of policy-mediated admissions practices that influence aspirant behaviour: (1) high weightings of grade point averages and standardized tests, (2) value placed on activities reported on curricula vitae, and (3) the rating of essays and personal statement submissions, interview responses, and letters of recommendation. These policies influenced how aspirants made academic choices, sought supports, and marshalled their time and resources. Notably, aspirants' interpretations of selection policies were partially influenced by information not explicated articulated by the policies. DISCUSSION: Admissions policies that incentivize behaviours misaligned with the values of medical practice may have harmful effects on applicants and the profession. Medical schools should consider the unintended consequences of their selection approach and establish policies that protect aspirant well-being and promote behaviours valued within physicians

Medical practice · MEDLINE · Selection (genetic algorithm) · Unintended consequences · Upstream (networking) · Diversity and Career in Medicine · Employer Branding and e-HRM · Medical Education and Admissions