Think of it as a checklist plus a story. The checklist: a bachelor's degree, the prerequisite coursework, an MCAT score, clinical hours, shadowing, community service, and strong letters of recommendation. The story is why you, why medicine specifically, and proof you've tested that commitment in real patient-facing settings rather than just deciding it sounds good.
Admissions committees read holistically, which means no single number saves or sinks you on its own. Your stats get you past the initial screen; your experiences and essays are what actually get you the interview invite. Most applicants who get stuck have one piece of the checklist done well and the story half-written, or the reverse.