Biochemistry during/after application?

[da3mite]

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Hey all,

I'm currently working on my fall 2018 application. I never took Biochem in undergrad and it's alarming to me that so many schools require it or at least recommend it.

I would like to apply to many of the schools that require Biochem, so do you think that these schools would still consider me a qualified candidate even if I just sign up for Biochem during application/take it before admittance and matriculation? If yes, is there a section on the AMCAS app for letting them know that I'm currently taking/signed up for the class but haven't completed it yet?

Or maybe this will be on a school by school basis?

Thank you!!

 

[Seihai]

Quote from someone who answered my question that is somewhat similar to your situation; I think the answer is definitely helpful for you regarding admission requirements:

1) MD programs do not typically considered specific coursework in terms of their prerequisite requirements while considering an applicant for admission. Rather they do so it a more general way. For example, virtually all applicants will have Organic so an applicant without will be noticed. So this is a "competitiveness" issue as opposed to a technical requirement issue at this point
2) MD programs will check coursework for prerequisite fulfillment after you have taken an offer of acceptance during post-admission/pre-matriculation phase. This is where you will have official transcripts sent directly to the school where it will be checked for prereq fulfillment
3) The reason why this is done, when schools get accredited by LCME, part of which is to establish admission policies, such as prereqs, and then implement and adhere to those policies. Too many waivers can get noticed and get a minor ding on re-accrediation. A very few schools I have dealt with have gotten dinged enough on this and other minor issues, that they rarely grant any waivers. But this seems to be the exception and not the rule
4) Not having a course may mean appealing a waiver, getting it in summer before or, in extreme examples, being forced to defer.
5) PhD programs, which usually are the driver in an MD/PhD system, dont have a similar LCME requirement or concern. Here it is pure competitiveness

So ago, specific prereq course work is not the issue in admissions, it is the competitiveness of you academic record and coursework., PhD programs will care more about your major, your ability, and your indepth research background as an admissions factor

Ignore the last part pertaining to MD/PhD. Full credit to @gonnif for this info.

If you are curious about more specific requirements, MSAR and calling the school are typically the best way to find things out.

 

[da3mite]

Thanks so much! Very helpful.

 

[Seihai]

The vast majority of schools do not, repeat, do require all prerequisites be completed prior to admission, just prior to matriculation. However, Biochem is really needed for a successful MCAT and a successful MCAT is needed to gain medical school admissions

(Sorry for the pedantry, but I just wanted to clarify that the bolded part here was supposed to be "do not, repeat, do not")