***2007-2008 Application Season*** Post all application questions here! Part I

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Hi - I posted this but nobody has replied so far:

I had some "Incomplete/Absent" grades from my freshman year sixteen years ago. AMCAS did not count these in their GPA calculations, but AACOMAS counted them as F's (which they were). Did anyone have Incompletes *not* counted toward their GPA for AACOMAS? I'm wondering if I should fight it or not...

I don't want to get on aacomas' nerves, since I don't know how vindictive they are as a team, but I do want to be on equal footing with my cohort. Anyone have an Incomplete ever?

Thanks!
 
Jpc984 said:
All! When you release your scores from thx system, schools can see all of them (I am pretty sure).

If I am making this up, please correct me.
Click to expand...

Yep, you're right 🙂 List them all because they will see them all no matter what.
 
Can I send in my transcript and MCAT scores before I fill out my AMCAS or AACOMAS? How will they link it to my application?😎 Can these be sent in before the application season officially begins? Can you access the application before the season officially begins? Does applications change much from one year to the next? if I get things in order based on this years application for next year, will I have a decent head start or doesn't it really take long to fill out the application?
 
I got an invite from LECOM to fill out their secondary; however, after clicking on their link and accessing the electronic secondary, I get the message "We are making updates to the online supplemental application - please check back for the new application."

Can anyone confirm that LECOM's online secondary is being updated for the 2008 application cycle?

Is there another page?

Just making sure I'm not looking at the wrong page by mistake.
 
Dr. Josh said:
Can I send in my transcript and MCAT scores before I fill out my AMCAS or AACOMAS? How will they link it to my application?😎 Can these be sent in before the application season officially begins?
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https://aacomas.aacom.org/applicants2008/help/faq_transcripts.htm

Can you access the application before the season officially begins?
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I'd imagine so, but I don't see the utility in it, expect maybe to see the application. You can't save your electronic application past the cycle you are applying. If you fill it out now, you can't save it for next cycle; you'd have to copy all the information you entered into MS Word, or the like. However, there is a paper version available for download that you can peruse and use to help you prepare for when you do apply.

Does applications change much from one year to the next?
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I haven't seen the application from year to year, so I can't say for sure, but I doubt it would change much, if at all.

if I get things in order based on this years application for next year, will I have a decent head start or doesn't it really take long to fill out the application?
Click to expand...

It wouldn't hurt to get things in order early. You can work on your PS, list all your activities/work experiences, and get all the necessary LORs and Transcripts ready ahead of time, if you feel inclined to do so.
 
I know you can for the AMCAS but can you also for the AACOMAS ?
 
FreeMeDoctor said:
I know you can for the AMCAS but can you also for the AACOMAS ?
Click to expand...

Why don't you just set up your aacomas (start an account) and send in your scores and transcripts?
 
FreeMeDoctor said:
I know you can for the AMCAS but can you also for the AACOMAS ?
Click to expand...

Yes, I believe so. Here's the reference:

AACOM said:
Q: When can I submit my application? Can I submit it before you have received my transcripts and/or official MCAT scores?

A: You can submit your application at any time up until the deadline for the schools you want to apply to. You do not have to wait until your official transcripts and/or MCAT scores are received.

https://aacomas.aacom.org/applicants2008/help/faq_applying.htm#thirteen
Click to expand...

Additionally:

AACOM said:
MCAT Records

Results from the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) are required for applicants seeking admission to the colleges of osteopathic medicine. Examinations are given on 19 different dates throughout the year and special accommodations are available for handicapped or disabled individuals.

MCAT scores are NOT automatically forwarded to AACOMAS. Please visit the AAMC's web site at http://www.aamc.org/students/mcat, log into their MCAT Testing History system, select AACOMAS as a recipient of your scores and your scores will be transmitted to AACOMAS. Your MCAT is transmitted electronically to AACOMAS via your Social Security Number. If you do not want to list your SSN on the AACOMAS please have MCAT create an alternative ID number for you and list or change this number on your AACOMAS application online. To change your SSN or other ID on your application you can log into your account and click on account information on the left side of the main menu.

All colleges of osteopathic medicine require the current MCAT (April 1991 or later). Refer to the Colleges section of the AACOM website or contact your designated colleges regarding additional requirements. If you have not already taken the MCAT, AACOMAS will process your application materials without MCAT scores. Your Applicant Profile will be updated later, upon receipt of official scores.

https://aacomas.aacom.org/applicants2008/help/ins_gen_instructions.htm
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I am struggling to fill out this application and the fact that I know it's somehow simple is driving me crazy. Right now though, I am SO lost.

Can someone tell me how to fill out the AACOMAS Grade in Course work? Their explanation does not make sense to me. I don't understand how to translate it- should I select the same letter as it is on my transcript or some of the numbers?

Let's say I have a grade C+ that's for a 3.00 credit hour course and that leads to 7.5 quality points. What's that in AACOMAS Grade box??? What if it is an A for a 1.00 credit hour course that leads to 4.00 quality points?

I don't know if my school adds .5 for + grades? How do I check that, if so, then what??!


---- oh and I got international bac. credit from high school and I got waved out of bio 101, bio 102 (both labs), a history course, and a spanish course BUT that's nowhere written in my transcripts... it is just added as some 10 credit pts... what do I do about that?
 
Jix5 said:
I am struggling to fill out this application and the fact that I know it's somehow simple is driving me crazy. Right now though, I am SO lost.

Can someone tell me how to fill out the AACOMAS Grade in Course work? Their explanation does not make sense to me. I don't understand how to translate it- should I select the same letter as it is on my transcript or some of the numbers?

Let's say I have a grade C+ that's for a 3.00 credit hour course and that leads to 7.5 quality points. What's that in AACOMAS Grade box??? What if it is an A for a 1.00 credit hour course that leads to 4.00 quality points?

I don't know if my school adds .5 for + grades? How do I check that, if so, then what??!
Click to expand...

Don't worry about the AACOMAS grade box; that's for their official use. They will fill that out. All you need to do is copy what is on your transcript and fill in the transcript grade accordingly.

EDIT: Oops, sorry. I think it's possible that I mixed up my primary applications. A bit of time has elapsed since I've looked at an AACOMAS application. See post #660 below for instructions from the 2007 AACOMAS application. If you still can't figure it out, contact AACOM for assistance.


---- oh and I got international bac. credit from high school and I got waved out of bio 101, bio 102 (both labs), a history course, and a spanish course BUT that's nowhere written in my transcripts... it is just added as some 10 credit pts... what do I do about that?
Click to expand...

Contact AACOM and ask.
 
spicedmanna said:
Don't worry about the AACOMAS grade box; that's for their official use. They will fill that out. All you need to do is copy what is on your transcript and fill in the transcript grade accordingly.

THANK YOU, BUT I CAN'T ADD A COURSE BECAUSE IT KEEPS ASKING FOR THIS GRADE AND I JUST DONT KNOW WHICH TO SELECT, SHOULD I JUST SELECT THE SAME LETTER AS IT IS ON MY TRANSCRIPT? {the other box that asks for the letter from my transcript would be the same as this one?} I MEAN, I GOT TO PICK SOMETHING BUT WHAT IF MY SCHOOL SCALE AND THEIR SCALE ARE DIFFERENT?
Contact AACOM and ask.
Click to expand...
.
 
Hello all~

I have sent my MCAT score three times to AACOMAS to no avail. I finally found out that I need to correct my SSN with AAMC. What is the quickest way to correct my SSN? I really want to apply ASAP!!!!!


~Ryan
 
Send notarized copy of SS card or any official paper with SSN on it and also copy of Drivers License. All have to be notarized. It took a week for mine, can take up to 2 weeks. I used certified mail seemed to work quick. Sent out on Monday and by Friday it was fixed and upploaded to AACOMAS on Monday or Tuesday
 
thanks. What address did you send it to?
 
Medical College Admission Test
Association of American Hospital Colleges
2450 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037-1127
Attn:MCAT File Change
 
Jix5 said:
THANK YOU, BUT I CAN'T ADD A COURSE BECAUSE IT KEEPS ASKING FOR THIS GRADE AND I JUST DONT KNOW WHICH TO SELECT, SHOULD I JUST SELECT THE SAME LETTER AS IT IS ON MY TRANSCRIPT? {the other box that asks for the letter from my transcript would be the same as this one?} I MEAN, I GOT TO PICK SOMETHING BUT WHAT IF MY SCHOOL SCALE AND THEIR SCALE ARE DIFFERENT?
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I see. I'm sorry if I lead you astray. It's possible that I mixed up my primary applications. A bit of time has elapsed since I've looked at an AACOMAS application.

Here's what I found from the 2007 AACOMAS Instructions:

AACOM said:
Actual Grade: Record the grade as it actually appears on your
official transcript. This can be a numeric grade or a letter grade,
with or without a plus or minus sign.
If narrative evaluations are used in your system in lieu of
grades, leave the AACOMAS Grade column of the Academic
Record blank or list "P" if pass credit was awarded. Copies of
narrative evaluations will be forwarded to your designated
colleges.
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AACOM said:
AACOMAS Grade: The AACOMAS grading system standardizes
the way grades will be reported to your designated colleges.
AACOMAS grades include: A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+, D, D and
F. The AACOMAS Grade is assigned a numeric value to
calculate your grade point average. These values are:

A 4.0
A- 3.7
B+ 3.3
B 3.0
B- 2.7
C+ 2.3
C 2.0
C- 1.7
D+ 1.3
D 1.0
D- 0.7
F 0.0

If your institution uses this grading scale, choose the
appropriate grade from the Letter Grade Format. If the "+" grade
has a value of ". 5" at your institution, you need to reflect the ". 5"
numeric value for "+" grades only in the AACOMAS Grade column.
Enter the numeric grade for plus grades (e.g. 3.5, 2.5, or 1.5).
Enter letter grades for all other grades.

If your institution uses a numeric grading system in which the
grade of 4.0 = A, 3.0 = B, etc., use the Numeric Grade Format.
All Pass/Fail courses should have the Semester Hours and
AACOMAS Grade columns completed. Use "P" for Pass and "N"
for Fail in the AACOMAS Grade column. If, at your institution, the
Fail grade is equivalent to the letter grade for failure, then list "F" in
the AACOMAS Grade column. If credit hours are awarded for AP
or CLEP credits but no grade is awarded, use "G" for the
AACOMAS Grade.
Click to expand...

I hope the above information helps. If not, then I suggest contacting AACOM.
 
Thanks JimT30!! I'll send it today.
 
Does my D.O. who is writing me a letter of recommendation need to include anything other than my name so that the school can match the LOR with my application? Perhaps put down my aacomas ID # or something like that.
 
PattheAggie said:
Does my D.O. who is writing me a letter of recommendation need to include anything other than my name so that the school can match the LOR with my application? Perhaps put down my aacomas ID # or something like that.
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It would be a good idea to have a aacomas ID# as well. I would make sure you apply to the school where the DO who is writing the recommendation went to school. ADCOM's value their alumni's advice and a good recommendation can get you to the interview stage. I hope you are accepted to the school of your choice. Good Luck!!!:luck::luck::luck:
 
Sorry if this has already been answered as I spent a lot of time reading through all the posts and gave up after i hit page 8. I am a little late in the process right now and am still in the process of completing my primary applications. Therefore, I was wondering if there is a limit as to how many ec's/hobbies/jobs we can put on the AACOM application. I kno that AMCAS has a limit of 15, and I was wondering if this was the case for AACOM as well. I can't find the answer anywhere. Any help is appreciated, thanks.
 
PattheAggie said:
Does my D.O. who is writing me a letter of recommendation need to include anything other than my name so that the school can match the LOR with my application? Perhaps put down my aacomas ID # or something like that.
Click to expand...

Some require your SSN, AACOMAS, and/or address. If you make a coversheet with the information, you should be fine.
 
my transcripts were verified on 7/5 and 7/11

how long until my GPA that they calculate is posted up?? I'll be takin MCAT this tuesday.... will my application be complete before the score or do they have to wait till they receive my score to send out the apps?
 
supernareg said:
my transcripts were verified on 7/5 and 7/11

how long until my GPA that they calculate is posted up?? I'll be takin MCAT this tuesday.... will my application be complete before the score or do they have to wait till they receive my score to send out the apps?
Click to expand...

Here is more information about the AACOMAS process from the AACOMAS FAQ:

AACOM said:
Q: How can I find out the status of my application?

A: The best way is our online application status check. You can log in to your account and click any of five linke under Status to determine how AACOMAS has calculated your GPA, the status of Transcripts, receipt of official MCAT scores, your College Designations, and your Payments.

AACOMAS normally processes applications in three to six weeks from the time your application is complete. An application is complete when AACOMAS has received all required transcripts and your application. Once your application has been verified you will be able to view your calculated GPA through the status check link available after logging on to the application service. Your application will be mailed shortly thereafter. Once your new application has been mailed it will be indicated with a date listed in the mailing section and your mailing status for that designation will be listed as either New or Revised.

Q: When will my GPA be calculated?

A: Your GPA will not be calculated until after your application is verified (3-6 weeks after the completion date).

Q: How long will it take for my application to be processed and be sent to my designated schools?

A: Although the time frame varies, AACOMAS normally processes applications in three to six weeks. Missing transcripts and/or receipt of large volumes of materials in the AACOMAS Office can affect this time frame. If you do not see transcripts posted to your account two weeks after they were sent, please contact AACOMAS to make sure that your materials have been received. You should allow four weeks after submitting your application for processing before contacting AACOMAS regarding the status of your application. Also, once your application status reflects that your materials have been processed and mailed to your designated schools, please allow at least 10 working days for your materials to reach and be processed by your designated schools.

Q: Still have a question?

A: Contact our Application Services department to ask about applying to medical school at [email protected]
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Which is the least expnsive DO school?
 
If you take a repeat MCAT, will DO schools see it only if you goto AAMC THx reporting system and release it to AACOMAS?

OR

Do they get it anyways?
 
gujusnike said:
If you take a repeat MCAT, will DO schools see it only if you goto AAMC THx reporting system and release it to AACOMAS?

OR

Do they get it anyways?
Click to expand...

I think you have to release it. If you marked on your aacomas that you are retaking the mcats, I think schools require that score as well.
 
Hey (THANKS),

I got another question about Extracurriculars. If I was a member and then an officer (but obviously still a member), how do I put that down? Do I make seperate event for being a member and a seperate one for being an officer?

and also how many extracurriculars can I put? limit anyone??

(and I also put my Shadow & Research experiences there too... tell me if I shouldnt but I got lots of hours for that as well)
 
Jix5 said:
Hey (THANKS),

I got another question about Extracurriculars. If I was a member and then an officer (but obviously still a member), how do I put that down? Do I make seperate event for being a member and a seperate one for being an officer?

and also how many extracurriculars can I put? limit anyone??

(and I also put my Shadow & Research experiences there too... tell me if I shouldnt but I got lots of hours for that as well)
Click to expand...

I don't know what the limit is. I would put the most relevant and recent ones until you cannot fill anymore. I would put them as one event and explain when you became an officer in the description.
 
I was looking at the AACOM website and it talks about dates of acceptance and when you need to decide by. Let's say you get accepted before November 15th and have to reply by December 15th, if you accept at a school, does that commit you to going there or can you back out later if you get accepted somewhere else? I'm kind of new at this whole thing, so any comments would be great!
 
i submitted my completed app a week ago or so and they got my transcript yesterday, when amcas got it they notified me via email, but I got nothing on accomas. It also doesn't say 'waiting to be verified' or whatever like amcas says. is that normal?
 
I receive a scholarship through my school that many other students also do receive. Therefore, I was wondering if I should put this on my AMCAS application or is it unnecessary??
 
I did a search but didn't find that many opinions on the subject. Should I enter shadowing experiences in AACOMAS, and if so, under what category?

What did/is everyone else do(ing)?
 
Hi all.

I was wondering if it looks bad upon you if you submit the secondary with payment, but the LORs wouldn't be sent to them until after a few weeks (2-3 approx.)?

A few of my professors are being really lazy with the letters and I need their input for the composite.

Thanks for the help.
 
I put shadowing in as an extracurricular activity.

I think most people are doing it this way. You can talk about the experience in the character description which is an advantage of listing the shadowing.

In addition, some schools provide secondaries that ask you to elucidate upon the shadowing experience.

Hope that helps.
 
IDBasco said:
I did a search but didn't find that many opinions on the subject. Should I enter shadowing experiences in AACOMAS, and if so, under what category?

What did/is everyone else do(ing)?
Click to expand...


Yea i agree, just put hte shadowing in the extracurricular section, that way you can write about it too
 
gujusnike said:
Hi all.

I was wondering if it looks bad upon you if you submit the secondary with payment, but the LORs wouldn't be sent to them until after a few weeks (2-3 approx.)?

A few of my professors are being really lazy with the letters and I need their input for the composite.

Thanks for the help.
Click to expand...

I think that your application just will not be complete, but otherwise I dont think it will hurt u.
 
GQMO16 said:
Yea i agree, just put hte shadowing in the extracurricular section, that way you can write about it too
Click to expand...

I am second to that.
 
My institution utilized actual letter grades (+ and - system). I'm wondering what the difference is between "grade" and "AACOMAS grade" on the application. My interpretation was that AACOMAS grade is the numerical equivalent of "grade" as it states in the instructions. However, what confused me was that it allowed me to choose an actual letter grade for "AACOMAS grade". Any help would be appreciated!
 
if you have a "A-" on your grade, put a "A-" on the AACOMAS grade. That's what I did and it worked out fine.
 
I accidentally submitted my original revision on my AACOMAS application earlier today. I emailed them and asked if they could change that to what it should be after I realized what I had done. Has anyone screwed up like this and been able to have any part changed? :scared:
 
gujusnike said:
I put shadowing in as an extracurricular activity.

I think most people are doing it this way. You can talk about the experience in the character description which is an advantage of listing the shadowing.

In addition, some schools provide secondaries that ask you to elucidate upon the shadowing experience.

Hope that helps.
Click to expand...

It does. What did you put for organization and title? I guess I was the shadower, LOL.
 
quick question, when it says "transcript recieved 7/16" does this mean that transcript was verified already as well?? or just recieved. because aacomas updated my page on 7/23 saying transcript recieved on 7/16. so i dunno. its taking waaaay too long. still waiting on my last transcript to arrive at aacomas, which is wierd, considering that i sent the transcript to aacomas and amcas at the same time, amcas recieved it over a week ago and aacomas still hasnt. how can this be? im sure there are more applicants using amcas than aacoma. i wonder whats the hold up.
 
DO LORs should be sent to your graduating school so the pre-med committee can send them out with their letter as well, right?
 
UCDavisdude said:
quick question, when it says "transcript recieved 7/16" does this mean that transcript was verified already as well?? or just recieved. because aacomas updated my page on 7/23 saying transcript recieved on 7/16. so i dunno. its taking waaaay too long. still waiting on my last transcript to arrive at aacomas, which is wierd, considering that i sent the transcript to aacomas and amcas at the same time, amcas recieved it over a week ago and aacomas still hasnt. how can this be? im sure there are more applicants using amcas than aacoma. i wonder whats the hold up.
Click to expand...

Yeah, once they list it as received they have processed it. Now you just have to wait for all of your transcripts to be received and then in a couple of weeks you will be verified and processed. After that it takes another week or so for AACOMAS to mail out your application to schools.

Waiting sucks, I know. 🙁

Good Luck! :luck:
 
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