Choosing Schools for next year's application cycle.

[The Philosopher]

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Alright, I'm taking the August MCAT and my GPA is not too bad, but not the best either: 3.63 cum and 3.55 science.

EC's, rec's, and essays/personal statements should be excellent.

First off, I know that there are probably a zillion threads about the August MCAT, but will it really hurt me THAT much as long as I get my stuff submitted in June and my secondaries ASAP?

Also, how would you suggest on which schools to apply? Obviously, I want to apply to those below or at my GPA level which are private or in-state, right? In addition, maybe pick 5-6 which are .1 more points higher than my GPA?

Thanks a lot--I'm just really worried about the Aug MCAT hurting my maximal chance, but I've heard different things about it.

 

[DW]

what state are you a resident of? whats your undergrad?

well, cant really give you TOO good a sense until your mcat scores are in, or you get a sense of how well you'll do from the diagnostics.

honestly, the august mcat will hurt you a little, but its not the end all be all. The main thing it to do well on it, whenever you take it. As long as your application is solid and you apply to a good number of schools across all tiers (i'll guess ~15 for now, but that really depends on your state of residence), you should be fine, but you will be behind the early worms. With your non rolling schools (i.e. schools that dont make decisions until march, yale, duke, etc) or "slow" schools (Sinai, Wash U, etc) its not as much an issue. But with some schools (UMich, Vandy, CWRU, and other schools that were accepting in October) it is going to put you at some disadvantage.

 

[filmdoc26]

Taking the August MCAT and applying the same year will only hurt your chances for the schools that abide by a rolling admissions process because they fill their classes on a first come first serve basis. However, those schools that make final decisions late in the application cycle (e.g.- in the spring) will give all applications full consideration.
Regarding which schools to apply to I would recommend researching online, in your pre-med office, or through friends. It's a pain in the butt, especially if you're still in school or working, but it really pays off. You should look at things like the city/town, the affiliate hospitals, the happiness of the students, the curriculum, the grading system, performance on the boards and the match, the facilities (research buildings, dorms, lecture halls, and even the gym), quality of the faculty and their willingness to work with students, financial aid, etc. You should apply to the schools that have a slightly higher average GPA and MCAT. Remember, 50% of the class are below those average figures. True, med schools emphasize numbers more than college, but if you have good recs and ECs, then you should be competitive. Hope this helps...Best of luck!