Analysis of financial barriers experienced by prospective genetic counseling students

Purpose

High costs of applying to genetic counseling graduate programs (GCGPs) are likely a barrier to workforce diversification. We sought to determine application costs and assess differences between individuals of historically underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds in medicine (hURM) and non-hURM applicants.

Methods

Applicants to GCGPs between 2005 to 2020 were surveyed about application history, related expenses, volunteer hours, and financial resources; 383 responses were analyzed.

Results

Median total application costs (MTAC) were $2634, $4762, and $5607 (1, 2, and 3 or more application cycles, respectively). Interview-related items (which includes travel) had the highest median cost (1 application cycle: $879). Among those who applied to multiple cycles, hURM respondents had higher MTAC than those of non-hURM ($6713 versus $4762, P = .03) and lower median total volunteer hours (246 versus 381, P = .03). Parental education level differed by hURM status (P = .04). Median financial contribution from parents with and without advanced degrees varied significantly (60% versus 2%, P = .0009).

Conclusion

Significant costs are incurred during the GCGP application process, but notable differences in costs and resources were observed between hURM and non-hURM applicants. Stakeholders within the profession should implement strategies to reduce financial barriers and the resulting inequities in the application process.