apply now or apply later?

[dds86]

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I am thinking of applying for dschool this year, but my GPA is lower than I would like. I am currently in the process of studying for the DAT, and will be taking it in early August. My question is, should i go ahead and apply now, with my scores being submitted I guess around October, or should I wait until next year to apply, when my GPA (hopefully) will be higher? Thanks

 

[mooredge]

I would save your money and wait until you're completely ready and confident about your application. If money is not an issue, then go for it, otherwise wait.

 

[Sephisabin]

If you can afford to do so, you should definitely apply. The schools receive you DAT score 2 weeks after you take the test so if you take it in early august, the schools will be able to review your application before the end of the month. If you do apply for this year, make sure you send your app by mid-June. You don't want the adcoms holding on to your DAT score, waiting for you application... Basically, your app will still be relatively early.

In financial terms, this is really a calculated risk. I know it's not as high as you want, but is your gpa decent? Do you have confidence in your ability to do well on the DAT? Are you willing (and able) to risk $1000 to save yourself a year of your life?

 

[dds86]

my gpa is around a 2.9 cumulative, and 2.8 for science. But, I have a lot of clinical and research experience that I feel will help me in the application process, as well as---hopefully-- doing well on the DAT. That's why I am not sure if I should wait, or apply later. Thanks for your help