How do I know if I should do post-bacc or masters?

[jeep1010]

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Hi All,

I am taking a gap year and I just wanted to know if there were certain GPA cut offs that point you towards doing a post-bacc vs completing a masters (or SMP).

I have a 3.64cGPA and 3.49 sGPA. I know that if I do a post-bacc of upper division science classes in one year my sGPA will be closer to a 3.65. Would this look bad taking a bunch of classes to increase my sGPA?

My parents are pushing for a masters however I am unsure if a masters (unless its an SMP) has an potential benefits?

Taking MCAT in May. I am planning on applying this cycle, and I want to classes over my gap year, unless that is pointless.

 

[Doudline]

A regular Master's has little benefit, unless you aim for a MD/PhD and need the research experience.

Depending on your MCAT, you have a shot at both DO and MD. What do your practice tests tell?

 

[alarita24]

If you are applying for this upcoming cycle then unfortunately your grades from a post-bacc or Master's would not effect the GPA that the schools see on your app; they would only be able to see the school's transcripts but that may be too late.

I can't really see the benefit of an SMP besides getting a leg up on material for when you start med school or if the upcoming cycle ends up unsuccessful -- if you applied in Summer 2017 then it would have a big impact.

A general Master's is nice because you are involved with research and will get published, but I am not aware of a Master's that is only one year.

 

[jeep1010]

Hey sorry for the late reply. Thank you very much for the posts. I really don't want to do 2 gap years and I was thinking that if I do not get in this time that I will have done this post-bacc during my gap year which would show an increase in my gpa for my next round of app if that needs be?

 

[jeep1010]

Based on practice tests I am looking at a 507-510 range MCAT right now.

 

[GrapesofRath]

The sGPA is below average but hardly a real noteworthy cause for concern or a debilitating factor. I think we might be obsessing a bit too much over a numerical GPA value if the advice is you NEED to do a PB before applying. This is especially true if you have a good grade trend. Historically a bit over 60% of applicants who hit 513 on the MCAT with this GPA who apply are admitted somewhere. A bit over 50% for those who hit 510. I dont think an SMP is indicated as necessary here, that'd be going a bit overboard.

Now that doesnt mean dont take a gap year here. These are the factors that IMHO should be given more significant consideration for the decision of whether to wait a year.

1) The MCAT. Based off your practice tests I would strongly consider not taking in May. Considering the real chance you do worse on the real thing that 507-508 could become a 505ish. You really dont want an MCAT close to 1 SD below the average with a below average sGPA. In fact, based off what you have said the MCAT to me is the biggest reason to strongly consider waiting a year.

2) ECs and overall non academic components. For those who dont get in with this GPA and a good MCAT score this is likely the more problematic area not the numerical sGPA.

The caveat here is doing well on the MCAT. Rushing it will just have long term negative repercussions. If in fact you take a gap year, would a PB be a good idea? I think it might. I just dont think it needs to be a major priority to extent you need to make a decision to wait based off that sGPA. Having said that, I think the effects of a 3.65 vs 3.5 would be greatest if the rest of your app isnt as strong in terms of ECs and MCAT score(ie you hit around say 505-507 on the real deal). That would be a case where I think PB work has the best chance of making some level of difference. I agree a masters program really isnt what I would be going for here.

 

[Cookiess]

Your current cumulative GPA and science GPA are ok, but having additional postbac classes would strengthen your application. With your GPA, you don't necessarily need to do an SMP as they're generally expensive and also risky in the event that you don't do well. A non-SMP Master's won't help your medical school application too much. Of all of your listed options, the best option would be to take postbac classes during this next year.

Apply when you are ready to put forth the best application you can and apply once. If you take postbac classes and do well, you'll have better odds if you apply during the next cycle (provided you have a solid MCAT score). Consider that your app may not be as strong if you end up being a reapplicant.

However, it seems like you are set on applying this year. If that's the case, focus your energy on doing well on the MCAT, apply early, and apply broadly. Control what you can control, so submit your primary AMCAS application in early June, and designate the rest of the schools you'll apply to based on your MCAT score when you get it back.