Low undergraduate GPA, currently in a Master's program. Should I also do a post-bacc program?

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graceful1234

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So during my undergraduate career my family had a lot of financial hardships and I had to work. This unfortunate circumstance took an emotional toll on me and it made an impact on my grades. I ended up graduating with an overall 2.86 gpa and around a 2.6 science gpa. I majored in biology and psychology. I am currently enrolled in a Master's program majoring in Microbiology and Immunology. I am hoping to graduate with a 3.7 gpa. I also plan on retaking my DATs. My question is should I do a post-bacc program? Is there something else that I can do to increase my chances of gaining acceptance into a dental school?
 
Post-Bacc programs are for people who don't want to do a master's degree. If you will have a master's soon, there isn't any purpose behind a post bacc.

My advice would be just knock your DAT out of the park.
 
After your master's program, what do you think your overall and science GPAs will be? If they're above 3.0, and you KILL your DATs, I think you have a shot at some schools. Make sure to explain your hardships on your application.
 
After your master's program, what do you think your overall and science GPAs will be? If they're above 3.0, and you KILL your DATs, I think you have a shot at some schools. Make sure to explain your hardships on your application.

Well I did a GPA calculation and if I were to continue getting A's in my master's program I would graduate with a 3.7 gpa. I think should raise my science GPA to a 3.0 or above.
 
have you taken your DAT yet? what were your previous scores like? i would aim for at least 22+ on your DAT to help offset your undergrad GPA even with a high masters GPA
 
So during my undergraduate career my family had a lot of financial hardships and I had to work. This unfortunate circumstance took an emotional toll on me and it made an impact on my grades. I ended up graduating with an overall 2.86 gpa and around a 2.6 science gpa. I majored in biology and psychology. I am currently enrolled in a Master's program majoring in Microbiology and Immunology. I am hoping to graduate with a 3.7 gpa. I also plan on retaking my DATs. My question is should I do a post-bacc program? Is there something else that I can do to increase my chances of gaining acceptance into a dental school?

which master school are you attending? I'm currently in the same situation. My overall GPA is 2.93 and I am looking for possible master school suggestion.
 
Familiarize yourself with the programs that screen people out of interviews based on gpa cut-offs. I know people that performed well in grad school and still got screened out due to undergrad blunders.
 
I wouldn't do a post-bacc and I would instead aim to get a 21+ on the DAT with consistent scores across the sections. Also, make sure the rest of your application is great! Good LORs, extracurriculars, shadowing experiences, personal statement, etc. I was in your shoes, did a master's, got a 21AA, and I've received 4 interviews and 1 acceptance so far this cycle 🙂 feel free to PM me if you want anymore advice
 
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