BYU Medical School Received Preliminary Accreditation
The Provo institution is now authorized to recruit its inaugural class of 60 students for a 2027 start.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Latter-Day Saints
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Brigham Young University has officially received preliminary accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. This milestone allows the school to begin recruiting an initial cohort of 60 medical students.
Why it matters
This development allows the new medical school to move forward with its goal of launching an MD program in July 2027. The school operates under a framework established by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints First Presidency.
The school will house its program temporarily at the BYU West Campus at the former Provo High School. Full accreditation is anticipated to be achieved after a four-year process.
The players
Brigham Young University
A private research university in Provo owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Liaison Committee on Medical Education
The accrediting body for educational programs leading to the MD degree in the United States and Canada.
First Presidency
The highest governing body of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The details
BYU filed for accreditation with an application centered on Jesus Christ after announcing the medical school's creation in 2024. A permanent facility is planned for the corner of University Avenue and Cougar Boulevard in Provo.
Timeline
BYU announced the medical school in 2024.
The LCME visited the BYU campus in spring 2026.
BYU announced receipt of preliminary accreditation on October 14, 2026.
The school plans to open its application portal in late October 2026.
The inaugural MD program class begins in July 2027.
Culture Shift
The establishment of a medical school marks a significant expansion of the university's academic mission and infrastructure. This development follows the rigorous review protocols established by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education accreditation standards.
Provo residents will see the medical program begin operations at the BYU West Campus before eventually moving to a new site at University Avenue and Cougar Boulevard. Students interested in the inaugural class should prepare to submit applications beginning in late October.
The takeaway
The accreditation move initiates the final recruitment phase for the school's inaugural medical class. Applicants should monitor the official university website for the upcoming opening of the student portal.
What happens next
The university plans to launch the student application portal in late October 2026, with classes for the inaugural MD program scheduled to commence in July 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the community's recent developments in the Latter-Day Saints section.
More information
Prospective students can view admission details on the BYU medical school prospective student information page.
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