Application Timeline Late?

[mijc]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I have a question regarding timeline for this cycle. If I complete and submit my application by August 15 what kind of disadvantage am going to be at? Is it still worth applying this cycle? How would that put me against people who applied june 1st and earlier? I have taken the mcat and scored a 31.

 

[ndafife]

By the time you are verified, which will be ~3-4 weeks after that and get secondaries submitted to schools, youre really looking at early October before schools actually starting looking at your application. Then you probably will not be interviewing until November... So by that time, many schools will have issued a good amount of acceptances. So, instead of competing for ~200 available positions, you'll be competing for 50 or so. And when there are fewer spots available, they become much more competitive.

 

[claduva94]

Your chances aren't shot but they are severely hindered. Your MCAT is typically good enough but with a late submission you definitely need to be more competitive than you would typically have to be.

 

[AliciaAccepted]

I have a question regarding timeline for this cycle. If I complete and submit my application by August 15 what kind of disadvantage am going to be at? Is it still worth applying this cycle? How would that put me against people who applied june 1st and earlier? I have taken the mcat and scored a 31.

It will be critical for you to submit a strategic application, if applying in August. By strategic, I mean:

1. Excellent essays that highlight your strengths and address any weaknesses in your application
2. Stellar activities--use all 15 maximum activities allowed (even if you have to list "Conferences Attended," etc.)

• These should include a balance of leadership, community service, clinical experience, and research (if relevant).
• The three most meaningful essays should also be well written and cover a balance of leadership, community service, and clinical or research experience.
• You should, ideally, have letters of recommendation from the three activities that you designate most meaningful.

3. School Selection becomes even more important when applying late. Some schools are more forgiving of late applications.

I hope this information is helpful and I wish you success!