2008-2009 MSAR = Reliable?

[LebLlama]

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I'm using the 2008-09 version of the MSAR to "apply smart". Is this version reliable enough to do so, or would the numbers have changed in such a way that it may not be as strategic as I would have hoped?


For example, one school in 08-09 accepted an average GPA lower than mine, and more out of state than in state. How sure can I be that they will do the same for this cycle?

Thanks

 

[Longshanks]

More out of state than in state is most like a private school or a DC school, correct?

If so, that won't change (especially for the DC school).

The medians haven't changed that much. Just bump everything up slightly higher.

 

[rbnsafsadgf]

U of Arizona recently started admitting OoS applicants.
There are new schools popping up.

I would be more concerned with these types of qualitative changes rather than slight quantitative ones.

 

[organdonor]

I for one would not feel comfortable relying on that data. https://services.aamc.org/publicati...ion=Product.displayForm&prd_id=296&prv_id=367
the MSAR is only $25, so if it prevents you from applying to one school, or even encourages you to apply to one school differently from the other year it would more than pay for itself. Alternatively, someone in your advising office has GOT to have one. There are even a couple significant errors in the latest edition

Michigan State University

Michigan State University on page 235 erroneously states that the school does not accept on-line courses in fulfillment of prerequisites. The school accepts on-line courses.
Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University

Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University on page 195 changed the date of their supplemental application from December 15th to December 1st.

If even the most up to date book has information wrong, I would rather eat glass than rely on something out of date.

 

[NickNaylor]

It will more than likely be fine.

 

[Sammich117]

You could use it to get a general idea. Just make sure you do extra research. Independently look up the schools you decide to apply to to make sure things are the same, and make sure you look into new schools

 

[rockaction]

Watch out on MCAT medians. OSU went from a 33 to a 34 to a 35 in three different versions of the MSAR. Same with U Cincinnati...went from 32 to 33 to 34...

Might as well get a new one, imo. It'll have info on new schools too.

 

[mdbound1987]

It should be fairly similar, but go to any library and they will have it if you don't want to drop $25 on it. Make copies of the pages for schools you are interested in.

 

[Sammich117]

It should be fairly similar, but go to any library and they will have it if you don't want to drop $25 on it. Make copies of the pages for schools you are interested in.

that's a good idea too. usually pre-med advisors have one you can look at as well. At some point or another it would be a good idea to take a glance at the newer numbers.