
Each application is reviewed by 2 reviewers in each subcommittee and scored based on significant and outstanding contributions in that domain. Each member of the AOA committee is assigned to a subcommittee designated to review the applications in one of the three domains. These domains include clerkship performance, service/leadership, and scholarly activity. Applications are reviewed and outstanding contributions in three domains are considered. The committee includes a diverse group of faculty members and housestaff leaders and includes members that are underrepresented in medicine (UIM). AOA selection is made by committee decision after a thorough and holistic review of each application. This application consists of a personal narrative, curriculum vitae (CV), and an optional demographic form. All fourth-year medical students are invited to submit an application for consideration of election into AOA. In line with this mission, Feinberg School of Medicine has amended its review and selection process and is proud to recognize the top 20% of graduating students for outstanding contributions to scholarly pursuits, clinical performance and service/leadership.

AOA is committed to supporting elections that are inclusive, diverse, and equitable. In accordance with its constitution, AOA is committed to recognizing new student members with the highest level of competence, character, trustworthiness, leadership, professionalism, scholarship, and service. It is composed of undergraduate, graduate, and alumni members that are selected on the basis of scholastic achievement and significant contributions in medicine.

The Northwestern chapter was founded in 1903. Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) is a national medical honor society organized in 1902.
