Dismissed From Medical School (us Md Program) With One Exam Left. Appeal Email Says “not Subject To Appeal.”

Location: Louisiana

Posting from a burner because I’m trying not to identify myself.

I was recently dismissed from medical school (US MD program) after completing all coursework, credits, and clinical rotations. The only remaining requirement for the MD degree was Step 2 CK.

The dismissal was tied to missed Step 2 timeline/deadline requirements and poor email communication/professionalism concerns. I accept that I handled things poorly. I had an ongoing medical condition and financial problems that led to depression, chronic stress, social withdrawal, and avoidance. I now have medical documentation, but it was not reviewed before the dismissal decision.

I was not allowed to speak directly with the promotions/progression committee before dismissal to explain, provide documentation, take responsibility, and present a concrete plan to finish. I was also locked out of my student email shortly after asking Academic Affairs for a Zoom/phone call.

I’ve already contacted ombuds. The dismissal email says the decision is “not subject to appeal,” but the school appears to have a formal appeals process, which is confusing.

I’m trying to figure out what to do next to preserve any path to finish: appeal/reconsideration, disability/ADA process, attorney, registrar/dean escalation, stay of dismissal, readmission, or transfer options.

What type of attorney should I contact for this: higher education, disability/ADA, administrative law, civil rights, or student defense? What documents should I gather before a consult?