Applying early question?

[sarahjth]

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I have always been one to apply ASAP to anything. So that's what my plan has been to do for pharmacy school. My top choice is a new school, SIUE and I know that not many people think of a newer school as being their top choice but I love the location and the cost. Anyway, they start applications mid-Fall and I was going to apply ASAP.. as I was reading their site, it said

"Can I apply to the SIUE School of Pharmacy before I complete all the pre-pharmacy requirements?
Part of the application process includes the completion of three grade point average calculation forms. On these forms you must clearly demonstrate how you will complete the entire pre-pharmacy curriculum prior to the beginning of term in which you wish to start. Your grade point averages will be calculated based upon the courses you have completed. If you are admitted to the School of Pharmacy while you are in the process of completing pre-pharmacy courses your admission will be provisional based upon completion of the outstanding course(s) and maintenance of an academic record consistent with prior performance."


From my point-of-view, I am thinking that means they are just going to look at my work prior to the time I send in my application. That means that my Physics, etc. will be meaningless for my GPA. I am not sure if I think this is a good thing or not! What is your take on the saying? I have always thought most pharmacy schools were "rolling" admissions.. meaning that when I send in the information my application would become updated. Does this also mean that I have to have the PCAT before applying? Sorry for my long questions.... sometimes it's just so mind-boggling! 😕 Thank you for reading this... I really appreciate it! Any advice is needed! Thanks!

 

[kayjay]

From my point-of-view, I am thinking that means they are just going to look at my work prior to the time I send in my application. That means that my Physics, etc. will be meaningless for my GPA. I am not sure if I think this is a good thing or not! What is your take on the saying?

Yes, that is correct. Even if you don't have all of your pre-req's completed at the time the AdCom reviews your application, you can still be accepted on a conditional basis, meaning as long as you finish your remaining pre-req's with a C or better either in the Spring or the summer before you start (whichever the school requires), you are in. This is not to say that they will not see the rest of your grades after you complete those courses.

 

[DownonthePharm]

Yep, most schools calculate GPA up to the semester before interviews. Which is why Im completing two easy A requirements this fall and Orgo II in the spring during the interview cycle rather than the other way around. If I get accepted I only need to "C" Orgo II and two fresh new A's will help my GPA better than an averaged F and whatever from Orgo II.

 

[sarahjth]

Well my GPA is okay, not great and not horrifying.. but I was kind of looking forward to next semester for a little boost and I am also retaking O. Chem. So do I apply in October or wait until winter break? If I apply in October does my PCAT have to be done? Because I am taking the Jan. date... Thanks again!

 

[phatty]

Most schools will allow you to still apply even if you haven't taken the PCAT yet. The apps will usually ask if you have taken or when you plan to take the PCAT. Applying earlier is always good because some schools see that as you getting on the ball and starting things early...so a 👍 for you. Good luck!

 

[ButlerPharm.D.]

I attend a school that requires you to have already taken the PCAT before applying. On the SIUE-COP website it states, "The Office of Student Affairs is vigorously working to admit its inaugural class for the School of Pharmacy in fall of 2005. Seventy-five well-qualified students will be selected for admission over the next several months. Applications to the professional program will require that students submit personal information, an educational information summary, official copies of all college and university transcripts, letters of support, scores from the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT), and a non-refundable application fee." Therefore it would be my guess that you NEED to have already taken the PCAT before you apply or your application most likely will not be looked at.

 

[NYCillini]

Do yourself a favor and do not hold off the PCAT if you can help it.

Stuff happens....it's nice to know that the PCAT is out of the way and that if necessary you can take the test at a later if something happens (remember the test is only offered...what...4 times a year?..maybe less).

Also, as the number of pharmacy students increases they are doing more to make the test more difficult. I took the test in 2003 and then again in 2004 (2003 was much easier...in just about everything plus they are adding a written section).

 

[NYCillini]

Do yourself a favor and do not hold off the PCAT if you can help it.

Stuff happens....it's nice to know that the PCAT is out of the way and that if necessary you can take the test at a later if something happens (remember the test is only offered...what...4 times a year?..maybe less).

Also, as the number of pharmacy students increases they are doing more to make the test more difficult. I took the test in 2003 and then again in 2004 (2003 was much easier...in just about everything plus they are adding a written section).

Also as far as applying early, that is highly encouraged with almost any program. (I think SIUE had an early deadline as compared to other programs). It shows responsibility and eagerness..... just make sure everything is neat and complete.

 

[sarahjth]

Thanks for all your wonderful replies! It is very appreciated! 😀