I am re-applying this cycle. Should I retake this class?

[atsext2]

I applied last year and did not get in although I got an interview. When I talked to the pt school advisor she suggested I retake physics I because I got a c. My science gpa is 2.7 and overall 3.3. I currently am a pt tech, which I wasn't when I applied last year, and am gaining a lot of experience. I have to work because I have a wife and son whom I must support because my wife currently is unemployed. I don't really have time or money to retake this physics class IMO. Would the experience be enough to help me get in this cycle? Should I also retake the GRE, I got a 990 on the old GRE? I would like to get some other folks opinions on this issue because I am pretty stressed about what I should do. Thanks. If you need me to clarify anything let me know as well I may not have given enough detail.

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[nomattic]

Given the sort amount of time you have to make any improvements for this cycle, I say retake the GRE and get a minimum 1000 on the old scale (the minimum for a lot of programs) and try to get your sci GPA to a 2.75, which are the lowest minimums I've seen at any school. If there are other schools that had lower requirements someone chime in, maybe I'm just not aware of them. I think you can get that extra .05 increase if you retake a class you got a C in and get an A. While PTCAS schools will average the 2 grades I know there are a few non-PTCAS schools that take last grade standing instead, which would bump you up even more.

Also, definitely explain on PTCAS that you have a job and family when asked to explain why your GPA might not reflect your abilities. If you have a well written explanation I think it can go a long way.

 

[PTMattI]

2.7 is pretty low...I think you should try to retake physics...maybe you can check if there are any community colleges in the area that offer that class in the evening?

 

[atsext2]

OK thanks. I will try to take the class again.

 

[kyahrm]

There are schools with 2.5 pre req GPA requirements. I have even seen one with a 2.0 minimum. I know this because I am in the same boat as you in regards to grades. However, your best bet would be to retake the class and improve your GPA.

 

[atsext2]

Do you think because I got an interview last year I will get one this year even if I don't do a retake? I am still improving my application with experience and GRE. I just would find it hard to believe I wouldn't get an interview again because of not taking the class. I will have to take the class in the spring anyway since it is so far into the semster so I will not even have it completed by the time the interviews roll around.

 

[NewTestament]

I would retake several pre-requisites to boost that GPA. It's a critical number in your application, because it predicts how well you can cope with the demands of PT school. Retake Physics, get a B or A, and retake one or two other classes. Most schools won't look at your if your pre-req GPA is below 3.0. Most students have a pre-req GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Kevin

 

[atsext2]

That is what I thought I would do; however, I spoke with an adivsor and they said that they only look at completed coursework and not in progress. This means that the two classes I choose to retake wouldn't even count towards my pre-req gpa unless I completed them before the application deadline.