Apply to NORTHWESTERN or CORNELL with a 28/3.8?

[rehtse]

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Hi everyone. I've read that the average MCAT scores for Northwestern and Cornell are about about 33. Should I apply if I got a 3.8(GPA)/28(MCAT)? Maybe you know of some people with similar stats who got in? Thanks.

 

[jennie 21]

It can't hurt to apply. However, I think it's unlikely that you'd get into either of those schools with a 28 (unless you have something extraordinary in your background, or are a minority). Sorry to discourage you. If you do choose to apply to those schools (and why not, you never know) make sure you also apply to some lower-tier schools, too.

 

[Explosivo]

Well I don't know much about Cornell but NW pre-screens your AMCAS before it sends a secondary. I think you would make it past the initial screen and be sent a secondary but to be frank I think it may be a reach to say that you would get an interview. The vast majority of people that interview have MCAT scores in the 30s. In fact, when I applied this past cycle I was shocked at how high some of the scores were. Granted there were probably a couple of exceptions but those people probably had something special in terms of ECs in their applications. Your GPA is great though.

I certainly wouldn't discourage you from applying as the process does get somewhat random. In fact I'd say go for it and see what happens...

 

[Iron Horse]

I can't speak for NW, but if you have a lot going for you besides your numbers, I would definitely apply to Cornell. They truly look beyond numbers. Good luck.

 

[UCLAMAN]

I got into Northwestern as an august mcater who only had a 30mcat(31 if you choose the best composite score from the 2 times i took the test). I had a 3.77. I got my interview invite on christmas eve, interviewed in late Feb(and also felt like i botched my panel interview) and was accepted in March.

28 may be pushing it for northwestern(i'd say you are pushing it for cornell as well). Your chances definitely aren't the greatest. However, if you have the money to spend it can't hurt to try. You'll never know for sure if you don't try. Its only 100% sure you won't get in if you don't apply.

 

[siempre595]

Go ahead and apply wherever you might wanna go. The only thing you lose is money, and it might really be worth it. I'd also consider re-taking the MCAT in August if you really want to be at a school like NU or Cornell. Being able to present an increased score, at 30 or above, will help you a great deal, also be sure you highlight what else makes you a strong applicant, like EC's or generally cool stuff you've done.
good luck.