How many credits should I take per semester?

[rs0147]

I've just finished my first semester of college, during which I took 14 credits. I've registered for 14 in the spring. I plan on taking 9 for the summer and 13 for next fall. My university recommends taking 12-15 (18 is the max allowed, dean's approval required for more) every fall and spring and 6-9 during the summer. I think that this is enough a fair amount of course work per semester, considering that I came into college with 37 credits from AP/IB exams (mostly electives, didn't test out of any required math or science courses) However, the pre-med advisory page on my university's website says that I should exceed expectations, which includes taking 15-17 credits per semester. Right now, I only know one pre-med student in my class doing this. I don't see how it's necessary, as my current course plan will allow me to finish biology, general chemistry, and math in addition to general education and college-specific reqs. Should I take more credits per semester to impress adcoms or should I just stick with what I have? How many credits did everyone else take per semester in college?

Even with the normal course load this semester my GPA is probably going to only come out to approximately 3.55 (3.33 for BCMP). Not all my grades are in yet, but I'm expecting 2 A's (7 credits), 2 A-'s (4 credits) and a C+ (3 credits). I've learned from my mistakes, so I'm not expecting anymore C's, but I'm afraid if I take on a course load larger than the recommended amount, I will overload myself and my GPA will suffer. Any and all advice is appreciated, and I'm sorry if I rambled in this post (force of habit).

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[bigdogrob4284]

Getting good grades >>>>> course load.

Stick with what you can handle in order to get good grades, but don't drop below full time.

 

[Twinnering]

I think sticking with your 14 credits and seeing if you can handle them is a really good idea. If and when you pass that hurdle, think about adding on a class or two more to your next semester. The key is to do well in the courses you do have, as opposed to overloading and tanking.

 

[TxResident]

As much as you want, enjoy college before its over.