The changing characteristics of past, present, and future U.S. medical students are examined, and suggestions are offered for the selection and education of future medical students. In addition to summarizing historical events from 1930 to 1982, the future characteristics of medical students through the year 2000 are addressed, based on the results of a Delphi survey. Over 200 knowledgeable individuals rated the likelihood and desirability of 98 predictions about medical students and medical education. Data are included on past trends and forecasts of future developments in the number, academic ability, and diversity of applicants to the first-year class. Similar information is provided about four major categories of applicants for admission to advanced standing. The process of screening and selection of first-year and transfer applicants and trends in medical student retention rates are also covered. Additional topics include the characteristics of those who successfully graduate and trends in their preliminary career choices of specialty and geographical location, women and minority groups in medicine, educational costs and diminishing financial aid, premedical and medical student organizations, and student affairs administration in medical schools. Appendices include information on the Delphi survey and a 284-item bibliography. (SW)