Boosting GPA, what to do...

[SeetaRaj]

Hey guys,

So I wanted to boost my GPA by either retaking certain classes, or adding on upper div bio classes. Classes I would retake would be ochem and physics both semesters, is it worth it? These are my two classes that I did worst in (1 B-, 3 C's). I'm actually applying to post-bac programs instead of med school right away, just FYI. But anyways, there's also the option of taking some courses that I did not have time to take when I was in undergrad. Some examples would be Integrative Medicine, Neurobiology, and Microbiology. I did well in my upper div classes, so I feel like I'd be able to boost my GPA with these classes. I can't take physics, ochem and all those bio classes because of the cost and time with applications being due this September. Any opinion is much appreciated! Thank you!

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[Lamel]

I don't think MD schools accept grade replacements. DO schools do however.

Someone correct me if I am wrong.

 

[SeetaRaj]

Yeah I actually heard that too, that's why I was considering just taking a bunch of upper div bio classes instead of retaking and wasting money. That's what I'm leaning towards anyways, but I want to know what med schools would prefer to see, A's in physics and ochem, or several A's in upper div and graduate level bio classes.

 

[plumhill]

I'd say pick and choose some upper level courses, but make sure you do well in them. It may not boost your GPA a lot, but if you can get A's in the classes that you mentioned, it will let adcoms know that you do have some scientific aptitude. At least from my experience, Microbiology classes are relatively easy (but this depends on where you go, of course), so that might be worth it.

If you're going to retake a class, then you NEED to do well (as in, get an A). But if you got at least a C in your pre-reqs, then its not worth retaking, since medical schools (generally) require at least a C in a pre-req. If there is a pre-req where you got a C- or lower then it would be worth retaking. You are correct in that MD schools do not do grade replacement (though individual MD schools may choose to overlook the lower grade if you do retake), and DO schools will do grade replacement.

 

[aspiring20]

Hey guys,

So I wanted to boost my GPA by either retaking certain classes, or adding on upper div bio classes. Classes I would retake would be ochem and physics both semesters, is it worth it? These are my two classes that I did worst in (1 B-, 3 C's). I'm actually applying to post-bac programs instead of med school right away, just FYI. But anyways, there's also the option of taking some courses that I did not have time to take when I was in undergrad. Some examples would be Integrative Medicine, Neurobiology, and Microbiology. I did well in my upper div classes, so I feel like I'd be able to boost my GPA with these classes. I can't take physics, ochem and all those bio classes because of the cost and time with applications being due this September. Any opinion is much appreciated! Thank you!

what's your current cGPA and sGPA?

here's what i would do if my GPAs are in the below categories:

above 3.4: focus on blowing the MCAT out of the water

3.2-3.4: do an informal postbacc at your local state university

3.0-3.2: consider a formal postbacc or smp

2.8-3.0: grade replacement/postbacc - focus on DO

2.8 or below: consider another career. Note I said CONSIDER, not GIVE UP medicine.

good luck

 

[AdmAckbar]

what's your current cGPA and sGPA?

here's what i would do if my GPAs are in the below categories:

above 3.4: focus on blowing the MCAT out of the water

3.2-3.4: do an informal postbacc at your local state university

3.0-3.2: consider a formal postbacc or smp

2.8-3.0: grade replacement/postbacc - focus on DO

2.8 or below: consider another career. Note I said CONSIDER, not GIVE UP medicine.

good luck

Although it depends on the individual, this is a pretty good table of scenarios IMO. I fit in the 3.2-3.4 case and am doing an informal postbac. I'll be going from the lower-end of that group to the upper end.. even though I may not improve my GPA a ton, it will show that I can handle the upper level classes -- while leaving me in a decent spot for MD/DO applications.

 

[aspiring20]

Although it depends on the individual, this is a pretty good table of scenarios IMO. I fit in the 3.2-3.4 case and am doing an informal postbac. I'll be going from the lower-end of that group to the upper end.. even though I may not improve my GPA a ton, it will show that I can handle the upper level classes -- while leaving me in a decent spot for MD/DO applications.

yeah, i believe this is a good battle plan. i am also in this category, though my overall GPA is fine as is.

 

[HopefulSlav]

I'm going to take Russian. Five hours. Da!

 

[SeetaRaj]

My GPA is actually above a 3.4, so maybe I should just focus all my energy on the MCAT. I went to UCI so taking classes there would be about $1200 per 4 units, so I don't know if I'm really willing to spend that much plus on apps later this summer. I think with my GPA, and with a decent MCAT, I can make it to a good SMP like at Georgetown or something, and then apply from there. Thanks guys!

 

[aspiring20]

My GPA is actually above a 3.4, so maybe I should just focus all my energy on the MCAT. I went to UCI so taking classes there would be about $1200 per 4 units, so I don't know if I'm really willing to spend that much plus on apps later this summer. I think with my GPA, and with a decent MCAT, I can make it to a good SMP like at Georgetown or something, and then apply from there. Thanks guys!

do NOT go anywhere near a smp if you have a 3.4+. do WELL on the MCAT and apply.

 

[AdmAckbar]

My GPA is actually above a 3.4, so maybe I should just focus all my energy on the MCAT. I went to UCI so taking classes there would be about $1200 per 4 units, so I don't know if I'm really willing to spend that much plus on apps later this summer. I think with my GPA, and with a decent MCAT, I can make it to a good SMP like at Georgetown or something, and then apply from there. Thanks guys!

do NOT go anywhere near a smp if you have a 3.4+. do WELL on the MCAT and apply.

Not willing to pay $1200/4 units so going with SMP? From what I know you can expect to pay ~$50,000 for an SMP, and if you don't do great you have ruined your chances. I'd take aspiring20's advice here.

 

[SeetaRaj]

Thanks guys, I'm taking the MCAT May 30th so we'll see by the end of June what my stats are. Thanks again!