Auditing out of interest? Post-bacc

[ddahlia14]

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It seems that this is not a very common question. I am interested in auditing an upper level biology class on infectious diseases. I would prefer to take the class for credit because I am so interested in it, but the cost is way too high. So I can either sit in (no record on transcript and free) or audit (recorded on transcript and a pretty large fee). I thought that medical schools might look favorably on this, as I am continuing to pursue my interest in science and medicine beyond my bachelor's degree. Is this true? Is the large fee worth it? It is the sort of thing that I think I would bring up in interviews to show my dedication and interest. Thanks!

 

[ddahlia14]

No ideas?😕

 

[Confuddled]

You mentioned that both taking the class and auditing are expensive. Is there a big cost difference between these two options? I mean, if you have to pay big bucks for auditing, you might as well just take it for a grade. I think medical schools would rather see you take it and do well in it, as opposed to just an indication on your transcript that doesn't really show whether or not you got anything from the class.

 

[whatuthinkin]

I'd just ask the professor if I could sit in on it (and pay no fee). The prof may not let you but it's worth a shot if you are that interested.

 

[MilkmanAl]

I've never had an issue auditing classes before, and both I audited were grad-level. If it's a large class, you probably don't even need to speak with the professor. Just show up.

Auditing won't look like anything at all on your transcript, so if you're really interested in this subject, don't bother paying money for the course. Show up and enjoy the material.

 

[medfan303]

I'm not sure I understand your question...Are you still paying for the course to audit it? Or are you just sitting in on the class without any paperwork? If it's the latter medical schools will not see that you audited the course, there's no paper trail for it. In any regard, I saw that you are also still premed. Any time you put should be earning you something more than just pure knowledge at this point (be selfish). E.g. If you have so much spare time do volunteering, study for MCAT, ace your classes, etc.

 

[ddahlia14]

There is a big difference of about 3k between taking for credit and auditing. Auditing costs about 1000 dollars. So very expensive.

At my school an audited class does show up on the transcript without a grade (assuming the professor is satisfied with the auditing student's attendance). The professor will let me just sit in on it, but then it will not show up on the transcript nor will I be out a bunch of money.

My question: is that mark on my transcript worth it to help prove my real interest in medicine? i.e I am interested enough to just show up to a class for no credit when I have already graduated.

I have been busy with volunteering and will be studying for the MCAT soon too.

 

[Mattabet]

If the professor is going to let you just come when you feel like and not pay any money, that's your best option. I don't think the audit mark on the transcript is going to impress anyone. It doesn't detract, but this seems like a case where you'd pay $1000 for 'meh'.

 

[schrizto]

Dang, that course tuition is expensive. Is this class at a public or private school?

To me, auditing the class when that money could be going toward an MCAT prep course: ehh.

 

[MilkmanAl]

is that mark on my transcript worth it to help prove my real interest in medicine?

Again, no. If you like the material, go sit in (i.e., DON'T audit). If not, don't.

 

[ddahlia14]

Thanks for the input! It is much appreciated.

And, yes this is a private school.