Low GPA (2.0) in freshman year. 4.0 in sophomore year. Considerations and questions.

[BloatedBanker]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Back in 2016 I went to college as a teenager because I had nothing better to do. I hated it (still do, but at least I have specific goals now). I managed a 2.8 GPA in my first semester, and a whopping 0 in my second on because I didn't officially drop my classes after I stopped attending mid-semester. I avoided probation because my GPA remained above a 2.0, but 5 credits remain on my transcript as an F and 3 credits as a W. I went back to college in early 2025 and I've maintained a 4.0 so far in 43 credits.

With the F's my current highest AMCAS GPA possible is 3.74. If those F's are replaced with W's the highest would be 3.89.

I have two questions that sort of go hand in hand. First, is it worth the effort of trying to get the 5 credits replaced with W's? Second is 100% curiosity. If the grades weren't replaced and I were to maintain a 3.8ish GPA (total AMCAS GPA of ~3.58) after 2025, would top schools look at my cumulative grades or focus on the 3.8?

Also, if there's any additional advice, considerations, or ideas that can be provided, I'm all ears (eyes?).

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Welcome to the forums.

If your school gives you a process for retroactive withdrawal, why wouldn't you take advantage of it? You are arguing you are more serious with your studies with your more recent grades.

 

[AJ25]

is it worth the effort of trying to get the 5 credits replaced with W's?

Yes, as long as you have the documentation/argument for the grade change. They won't just remove those because you want them removed.