Hi all, sorry if this has already been posted before. I am interesting in going to DO school, but did not apply this cycle due to low stats (cGPA 3.4, sGPA 3.09, MCAT 500). In the year before I apply, I want to do either a post bacc or masters in order to increase my admissions chances. I also plan to retake my MCAT, as I know I can do much better. I have heard that SMPs are a "last resort" and if you do bad, you are done. Can anyone clarify the difference between the 2 and the benefits of each? And possibly provide some names of programs that would be beneficial for someone with low GPA/MCAT hoping to go to DO school? thank you!
I have a similar GPA. See the Osteopathic underdawg thread. My MCAT, however, was a 509. Given my experience and those that I have spoken with, I think it would be reasonable to consider the following:
-retake the MCAT if you can score >505 (this might be the single most effective addition you can make for your application)
- Do a short DIY postbacc in upper level science courses to show improvement
- make sure you have very strong ECs if at all possible (100s hrs clinical volunteering, 100s hrs non-clinical, research if possible, helping the underserved)
I received 7 IIs this cycle with a 509 MCAT and similar GPA, with strong ECs and essays that were pretty well written. I would tend to disagree with posters that suggest you should immediately pursue podiatry or an SMP (very expensive + risky). Further, you should target a variety of schools, not just low-tier DO schools. I would recommend targeting some low, mid, and upper tier DO schools, as well as your state MD and some low-tier MD programs (in the event they see something in you).
If you are applying as a college junior or senior, however, I would really take another year or two to gain ECs. I think that can really help applicants like you and me (at least I believe it strongly helped me).