Highlights:
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Three Indian American students selected for the University of Arizona’s APME Program.
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Seven-year fast-track from undergraduate to medical school, no MCAT required.
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Program addresses Arizona’s shortage of primary care physicians.
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Students are graduates of BASIS Charter Schools.
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Highly competitive, with hundreds of applicants nationwide each year.
The APME Program (Accelerated Pathway to Medical Education) at the University of Arizona offers academically talented students a direct path from undergraduate studies to medical school. Designed to address Arizona’s shortage of primary care physicians, the APME Program condenses the traditional medical education timeline into seven years, helping to bring qualified doctors into the workforce faster.
What Is the APME Program?
The APME Program provides high school seniors with early, conditional admission to the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine. Students accepted into the program complete their undergraduate degree and medical degree in a combined timeline, bypassing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) requirement.
To remain eligible, students must meet rigorous academic and professional standards during their undergraduate studies. This structure allows motivated individuals to focus on medical training earlier in their academic careers, with a strong emphasis on serving underserved communities.
Why the APME Program Matters for Arizona
Arizona currently faces a shortage of about 600 primary care physicians, with demand expected to increase to 2,000 by 2030. The APME Program plays a crucial role in closing this gap by streamlining the path to medical school for students committed to primary care and community health.
By selecting candidates who already demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a dedication to public service, the APME Program aligns with the state’s long-term healthcare needs.
Three Indian American Students Selected for the APME Program
From the 2025 graduating class of BASIS Charter Schools, three Indian American students—Nishita Karikatti, Sudeep Vattikuti, and Karthik Ainapurapu—were selected for the APME Program. BASIS Charter Schools is a tuition-free public school network serving K–12 students across multiple states and known for its rigorous academic standards.
Their selection demonstrates how the APME Program attracts high-achieving students with diverse backgrounds and a shared commitment to improving healthcare.
Student Profiles: APME Program Class of 2025
Nishita Karikatti: STEM Scholar and Advocate for Women’s Health
A graduate of BASIS Oro Valley, Nishita Karikatti is a nationally recognized STEM scholar with experience in mental health advocacy and community volunteering. She plans to major in physiology and medical sciences with a minor in Spanish. Her long-term goal is to establish a nonprofit organization addressing women’s health and underserved populations.
“This opportunity brings me one step closer to bridging gaps in access to healthcare, particularly in rural and mental health services,” Nishita said.
Sudeep Vattikuti: Future Ophthalmologist with Strong Communication Skills
From BASIS Peoria, Sudeep Vattikuti excelled academically while earning national recognition as a competitive debater. Debate sharpened his communication and problem-solving skills—abilities he believes are essential for practicing medicine. He plans to specialize in ophthalmology.
“Medicine is about helping people, but it’s also about listening, communicating, and problem-solving—skills I’ve worked hard to develop both in the classroom and through competitive debate,” Sudeep noted.
Karthik Ainapurapu: Serving the Community Through Medicine
Karthik Ainapurapu graduated from BASIS Tucson North and was inspired to pursue medicine through his parents and an AP Psychology course. Volunteering at a clinic for the unhoused strengthened his resolve to serve underserved populations in Southern Arizona.
“I’ve always known I wanted to serve the community that raised me, and this program gives me the chance to turn my passion for medicine into real impact,” Karthik said.
Competitive Nature of the APME Program
The APME Program receives hundreds of applications each year from across the country. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership qualities, community service, and a demonstrated interest in healthcare. The early admission offer is conditional, requiring students to maintain exceptional performance throughout their undergraduate studies.
University of Arizona’s Commitment to the APME Program
Tejal M. Parikh, Associate Dean of Admissions and Director of the Comprehensive Education Center at the College of Medicine – Tucson, praised the 2025 selectees.
“Their academic excellence, leadership, and deep commitment to service embody the values we champion at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. They represent the next generation of leaders who will advance health and wellness in our community and beyond,” Parikh said.
She added that the APME Program helps the university fulfill its mission to transform lives through education, research, and compassionate patient care.
