5th vs Masters

[plzacceptme]

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Hi,
Trying to figure out what would be more helpful for a person with a lower gpa (3.2). Would a nonSMP masters (1 year) with a good gpa be better or would a 5th year undergrad year with a good gpa help more? (would show upward trend)

thanks,

 

[badb100d]

Either way, you'll want a stellar GPA and that upward trend. I'd say go with the extra year of undergrad since AMCAS (assuming you're interested in MD programs) lists grad and undergrad GPA's separately. General consensus on the forums is that your undergrad GPA will be much more heavily weighted so you want to get that as high as you can.

You didn't say what your science GPA is, but if that's also low be sure you use the extra year to boost your application in that area with some upper level coursework (ace them). As opposed to padding your GPA with something like underwater basket weaving
Good luck!

 

[plzacceptme]

thanks badb1ood,

Yeah i've decided today that I will pursue the fifth year of classes. I'm thinking about DO schools as well, so I think that retaking classes + taking upper divs will help me alot more than a masters which i probably wouldnt even use will!

 

[badb100d]

Glad you came to a decision plzacceptme. DO is definitely a great option for you as AACOMAS replaces grades for courses that you re-take as opposed to AMCAS, which just averages them.