Contacting Schools about Low Pre-Req GPA

[ma na ma na]

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Hi everyone,

I just submitted my PTCAS application and had it verified yesterday. Unfortunately, I also found out that my pre-req GPA is just a 2.98. My overall is a 3.11, my Post-Bac is a 4.00. I'm currently taking API but it won't be finished until mid September but so far I have an A in the class and I know that with the A, it will bring my pre-req GPA up.

Here's the part I need advice on I wanted to reach out to the schools I'm applying to (I've already spoke to most of them before about clinical experience) to explain that while my GPA doesn't meet the minimum right now, my API class will raise it.

I'm worried that they will take a look at my pre-req GPA and disregard my application completely. I'm also afraid that if I wait until December for the PTCAS Academic Update, it will be too late because schools will have already thrown out my application.

The only reason I'm even bothering is because I think my background makes me a decent applicant. I have 800 hours of clinical experience in an inpatient, outpatient, and pediatric setting. I am CPR certified, I've worked as a mentor for three years, and I worked in a research lab with an oncologist. My GRE scores are 630 in verbal, 550 in math, and my AWA score is 5. I am retaking it just to make my score stronger but I think my initial score is pretty decent.

I'm planning on calling schools on Monday so any advice would be sincerely appreciated. I understand that I may not get in this year and will have to apply again next year, but I would like to know I did everything I could.

Thanks for your help everyone and good luck to everyone applying as well!

 

[13panda]

I would try applying to schools that have a lower minimum GPA requirement. Because your other areas are strong you could still be considered competitive. Also there was a section in the PTCAS ap that asks you to write an essay if your academic record does not reflect your abilities. If you explained yourself well than I think schools would still consider you.

 

[Litlwarrior08]

MA NA When I applied my GPA was 2.8 by Dec academic update (AU) it was up to 3.1 my sc GPAs were below that. I applied to schools the posted min GPAs 2.75, 2.8 and 3.0 (9 altogether in CA, AZ, NM, NV) results interview at ATstill-az, interview and waitlisted #4 at NAU-i'm an AZ res. accepted in Nov at Touro univ in NV. others didn't pay too much attention. Basically don't be to intimidated by a school that states 3.0-especially if it is your home state. I was shocked to have done so well w/ NAU.....thought my app would have been tossed.know I would have been accepted if those SC scores were higher. Glad to have a seat. Good Luck. Watch the deadline dates for the schools closely.......the AU will be important for you.

 

[Azimuthal]

This shouldn't be a problem as applications don't necessarily get "tossed out" but rather "passed over". When the academic update is made, the school will be notified of an update and another screening *should take place.

 

[NewTestament]

Schools want to know that you can meet the demands of PT school. Your GPA is acceptable, but it not might be competitive. Everything else looks good: plenty of experience (you probably earned some good LORs too); leadership skills; good GRE scores. You are multi-faceted and have experience not many applicants have. However, you will probably need some grace to get into school. Your pre-req GPA is important.

If you don't get accepted, definitely retake some pre-reqs. Retake any classes you got a C in. If you got a B in a class, retake it and you'll probably get an A in the class.

You have a chance, but the applicant field is competitive. Good luck.

Kevin