how significant is a 4.0 semester gpa update letter?

[osprey099]

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I'm currently wait listed at quite a lot of places and I'm pretty sure that I'll be getting a 4.0 this semester and I'm planning on updating my schools. Could a 4.0 gpa this semester and a 4.0 next semester demonstrate to the schools that I'm improving significantly and perhaps move me off the wait list when may comes? Basically, once I'm put on the wait list, I know my chances of getting in a school are slim but could 2 4.0 semesters do the trick and get me off the wait list?

EDIT: my current AMCAS gpa is only 3.6

 

[Amygdarya]

I don't know if this kind of update will help you, but it won't hurt. Make sure you word your update letter well: 1) point out the significant improvement in your grades and maybe comment on how you're better prepared to handle med school class load now; 2) make your update letter a combination of update and letter of interest, i.e. reiterate your interest in the school and why you're a good fit for it (being specific and fitting the school's mission and culture is the key).
Good luck!

 

[osprey099]

Thanks for the advice!

I am definitely planning on making the update letter both an update and a letter of interest. Would you recommend a letter of intent for a couple of schools that are my top choices that I'm currently sitting on the waitlist or do you think the letter of intent is better suited for after may 15 once they have a ranking of the waitlist?

 

[DokterMom]

Thanks for the advice!

I am definitely planning on making the update letter both an update and a letter of interest. Would you recommend a letter of intent for a couple of schools that are my top choices that I'm currently sitting on the waitlist or do you think the letter of intent is better suited for after may 15 once they have a ranking of the waitlist?

If your 'relatively' low GPA is a question mark for your application, a 4.0 semester might help tip the balance a bit. On the other hand, try not to sound like a 4.0 is anything new or surprising for you ;-) Just your "I remain committed..."

In your situation, I'd send one early - ass soon as you have your fall grades, and maybe you won't have to sit on the wait list. Between now and then, see if you can find any articles published by the school that are of interest to you, or any other reason why they/you are a great fit and comment on those in your LOI as well.

 

[contender603]

Are you Pre- or Post- interview waitlisted? I am currently on hold at a couple of my schools as well (Pre-interview) and currently contemplating sending an update letter with my 4.0 that I am on track to get this semester and a research project that I have been working on this semester (however no publication). Do you guys think I should send in the update letter no, or after official fall grades come out so I can send them an actual transcript?

 

[darkjedi]

I'm not sure how your semester system works, but it would be better to wait until you have the actual transcript to be able to send to them. I do agree that it is a good opportunity to update the school and potentially indicate your interest as well. It certainly won't hurt you, and it would give a chance for the adcom to reevaluate your application in a slightly new light.