UGA Opens Recruitment for New Medical School Program

The university's first class of 60 students will begin classes this fall.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The University of Georgia has officially opened applications for its new School of Medicine program, which was recently granted preliminary accreditation. The program is seeking 60 students to enroll in its inaugural class starting this fall. Prospective students can apply through early March, with interviews and final decisions expected in April.

Why it matters

The new UGA medical school represents an expansion of healthcare education and training opportunities in the state of Georgia, which has historically faced physician shortages, particularly in rural areas. The program aims to produce collaborative, compassionate physicians committed to improving health outcomes across the state.

The details

The UGA School of Medicine will be based in Athens and is now accepting applications for its first class of 60 students. Prospective students must submit primary applications by March 6 and secondary applications by March 13. The university will hold rolling interviews until final decisions are made in April.

  • The UGA School of Medicine was officially granted preliminary accreditation on February 13, 2026.
  • The university hosted a virtual recruitment event on February 20, 2026.
  • UGA will host an in-person recruitment session on February 27, 2026.
  • The UGA Health Professions Fair, where the new medical program will be represented, is scheduled for February 26, 2026.
  • Classes for the inaugural class of 60 students will begin in the fall of 2026.

The players

Shelley Nuss

Founding Dean of the UGA School of Medicine.

University of Georgia

A public research university located in Athens, Georgia that is launching a new School of Medicine program.

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What they’re saying

“We are seeking students who are ready to help set the standard for the type of physicians we will strive to produce at the School of Medicine — collaborative, compassionate and committed to improving health across Georgia.”

— Shelley Nuss, Founding Dean (UGA)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The new UGA medical school represents an important expansion of healthcare education and training opportunities in Georgia, which has historically faced physician shortages, particularly in rural areas. The program aims to produce collaborative, compassionate physicians committed to improving health outcomes across the state.