Do schools look at how long you've been undergrad?

[TechNoirShooter]

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And if so, would the following situation be worth writing about in a PS?

I changed my major from psychology to biology, so there were basically no overlaps. I took the 06-07 year off to try to calm myself down (long story). But from 07 on, my grades dropped a lot (4.0 down to a 3.65) due to a severe depression that even made me go inpatient fall 2008.

I chose to go back to psychology because I will graduate sooner (following the advice of my parents).

So basically I will finish up my psychology degree in 6 years (including the 1.5 years off). Do med schools view this as inefficient time management? Incompetence regarding a rigorous course load? Questionable dedication to one subject? Or would it even matter since it's not really a BCMP type of major?

Just another question...after graduation, I plan on taking upper division bio/biochem courses to boost my GPA back up to med school standards. Would that make this situation more hopeful?

What are my chances given I do well in those science classes?

 

[sling787]

If you explain the depression, which you should be able to, as you've said you went inpatient, I think they will understand.

Going to school for 6 years and having valid reasons is different than going to school for 6 years and only taking 10 or less credits a semester with no excuses. The latter will be frowned upon.

If your GPA and MCAT are in check, I don't think your situation will be a problem. The 3.65 you have right now is a good GPA, it's about the average for matriculants.

 

[Stratego]

I wouldn't worry about how many years you took to graduate. The important thing is that your GPA is competitive by med school standards at 3.65 (the average for students getting into med school). If you take post-bac courses after graduation and get the GPA even higher, that's all to the better. Your chances will be good assuming you have a decent MCAT score, and the usual ECs, letters, primary essay, etc. You don't need to mention your prolonged educational journey in the PS unless it had an impact on your deciding to go into medicine. Many schools have a secondary essay prompt to explain any special challenges you faced. It's up to you if you want to bring the depression up, or not. You can always be vague and refer to it as a 'health issue' or you can be extremely descriptive, depending on your comfort level.