Applying Early September, too late???

[KNOU4rmCA]

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I stumbled on SDN a few weeks ago and have read some very helpful tips on applications, and DAT preparations. Thanks SDN. This will be my first official thread postage. So "HI" to all!

Anyways, I wanted to get some opinion on the timing of my application/DAT. I've been studying for the DAT for three weeks (6-8 hr/day), filing some parts of my application and in the process of getting a few letters of recommendations. But next week I will be starting summer school (O-chem series). Since I'm not a science major, I want to do exceptionally well in the class. Therefore, I won't be able to focus completely on on the DAT/application until I finish summer school in late August. Do you think that early September is pushing it? I know the schools I want to go into has deadlines in Dec, Jan, Feb but does my chances of getting in drop the longer I wait? Or just as long as I maintain my good grades, and try to get a 20+ I should be just as fine? Just wanted to see if anyone happens to know what the schools prefer.

Thanks,
KNOU4rmCA

 

[jes1ca]

Hey there,

Welcome to SDN! My opinion is that if you are only taking one class that you should have time to at least submit the application in the summer months because it takes so long to process. The earlier the better. Then, take the DAT at the end of the summer and submit your scores. If you're taking O-chem in the summer, then you at least won't have much O-Chem to study. 🙂

Of course that being said, I applied in early September and still got in. I would have gotten consideration at many more if I would have applied earlier. AADSAS is horribly slow and you should submit your application before you start summer school if possible and then take the DAT later and update the scores.

Good luck!
Jessica

 

[tina4281]

hey there,

i'm not sure if this helps but...i submitted my apps last mid-november because I didn't feel ready either. I took the DATs in July. Worked on my personal statement until Nov. And, I asked for Letters of Recommendations in oct. Everyone thought I was really procrastinating. but, I wasn't ready.

I think columbia responds pretty quickly once your application is finished. I read somewhere, 2 weeks, but I'm not sure.

Anyway, i got a few interviews and I'm going to UCLA next year. I think it's important that you maintain your grades to show the schools that you can handle science courses.

Tina

 

[Bcat]

You should be fine if you have a good gpa and do well on the dat. I applied mid Sept. and was accepted most places. Concentrate on your O-chem and then do your app.

 

[KNOU4rmCA]

Thanks. I feel much better. What were your DAT scores and gpa Tina if you don't mind me asking? UCLA is definitely ideal for me and it would be totally awesome if I got accepted there.

KNOU

 

[tina4281]

my gpa is 3.5 and i believe my overall score is 21. i didn't do so hot on the pat. i either got a 17 or 18. i think what boosted my chances were good letters of rec. i had like 6 and, of those, i think 4 were really good. personal statement is pretty important also...it's important to sound mature and as though you know your reasons...so...good luck...

But, i did get a flat out rejection from ucsf. i think its all luck too. i think i was just not meant to leave UCLA (I'm currently a 5th year here). haha.

 

[umc27]

How early is considered "early"? If I get my materials out by next Friday, is that still considered early? Or do I need to hustle? Thanks!

 

[The Musketeer]

In my opinion, I think if you apply before mid-June, it is early. Some schools begin their interview process in late July - early August, so to be one of the 'early-birds', then you should apply before mid-June.