how early is "early"?

[mgs50]

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So I am currently working on my application, and I know everyone says to submit early for a better shot at acceptance, especially to rolling admissions schools. I was wondering how early "early" actually is. I am currently taking a summer class that ends in two weeks that I will most likely get an A in, and I am also taking two courses next summer session, one a retake of a Orgo II that I got a C minus in the first time around, and another prereq, which I expect to get around a B and an A in. I am also going to take the PCAT for the first time next week.

I was wondering then, when should I aim to submit by? And PharmCAS won't submit my applications to schools that require the PCAT until my PCAT scores are received, correct? And if I submit before I finish my second session of summer classes, will I be able to add in those grades after, or do I have to wait for the academic update window that comes after fall classes?

Thank you, and good luck to everyone else applying!

 

[pharmacygopher]

First, check with the schools you are applying to and see when their due dates are. A few have really early dates.

PharmCAS only lets you update your grades once, during academic update. I would hold off on submitting until you finish summer session, especially since you're retaking a prerequisite you did 'poorly' in. Even if you submit in Aug/Sept, that is still pretty early in the game. That is assuming none of the schools you're interested in have early deadlines.

 

[trailrider400]

As far as the pcat goes you can submit your pharmcas application before pharmcas receives your scores. But I think pharmacygopher is right about the grades. You could submit your app and list the courses as 'planned/in progress' but it sounds like you really want the adcoms to see your summer grades especially since some of them are retakes. As far as what constitutes early I think that anything before mid september is fine. Its when people wait until January or February when I think it really becomes a problem. And no one can really say with any certainty what 'early' is as far as whether you'll be accepted. I mean who knows even October or November isn't really that late. I'd just get it in as soon as your application is complete. And based on what you've stated I'd wait for pharmcas to recieve your summer grades and shoot for end of august/early september. Good luck 👍

 

[koercive]

I'm not sure about schools that require PCAT. But for the schools I applied for (California), the due dates were early November. I turned in my applications by mid July. (apps came out in June).

Turning in your supplemental applications early too makes a difference on top of your PharmCAS