MCAT disappointment

[jenz34]

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Hi, I'm afraid this is another one of those personal questions, but here goes. My MCAT scores just came back and were lower than expected (V-9,BS-9,PS-8 writing R). My GPA is a 3.65 from a solid liberal arts school, and I've done volunteer work and shadowing. Does anyone think that with this profile I can get in anywhere? Should I retake the MCAT in Aug? Any schools I should try? For reference, I'm a white female, a bio major, and a NY state resident. Thanks everyone!

 

[nontradstudent]

Jenz,

Your GPA is good, your MCAT is average. I think you will have a good chance with DO schools. Also, apply as early as you can. If you only want to apply to MD schools, talk to the admission office.

 

[QCC]

Jenz

Some words of encouragement. My wife had scores identical to yours, and she was accepted to and MD program five years ago. She has since graduated and will start residency at the University of Toronto this Sunday... ON CALL! That kills me, but anyway... good luck.

Mark

 

[Arti]

jenz34

Applying to DO programs should be secondary, you have a good shot at good MD schools. Don't give up and apply, if you don't get in this year (which I highly doubt), then you may start to consider retaking your MCATs. Your GPA is very good and if you can write a solid essay (give to lots of people for feedback), you really should not have problems getting into a good allopathic program.

Arti

 

[fiatslug]

Jenz: sorry to be a voice of gloom here, but a 26 is not competitive for most allopathic schools. If you've got your heart set on an MD, you should consider retaking the exam. Did you take a prep course? Just practice the passages like a maniac. Get your hands on as many practice exams as you can. If I were in your shoes, I'd retake it next April and devote the time in between to really improving all around-- take biochem & physio in the fall if you can, practice the G Chem & Physics questions, and start reading The New Yorker & Scientific American & The New York Times. Your scores are within range of DO schools, though. Depends on what you want to do. Good Luck!

 

[jimmybee]

Hi.....I think that your scores are fine. I beleive that you will be a competative candidate in either a DO or a MD program as long as you have done activities that show your desire to become a physician. You have to realize that some people on this website are set on having scores of 30's on your MCAT along w/ god knows everything else. From my own experiences with friends, I have seen people get into MD schools with GPAs around 3.7-3.8 with scores similar to yours. They had the same numbers but in different sections.
My advice to you is apply this year with the scores you have to the schools that you want to go to. Then, see what responses you get and decide your options at the beginning of next year. I would strongly suggest at least applying to all of the schools in your state.
I hope that this message helps.

 

[MudPhud]

Your undergrad grades are good, bio major puts you at a disadvantage...Either study hard and take the MCAT's again or do a 1yr Master's program in Public Health or Physiology then you'll definately get in!

-Good Luck

 

[nkg123]

Look, I think your MCAT scores might be a little low, however, you can (if you wish) take them again. However, I think that you should give MD schools your best shot - don't think about the DO schools right now. I feel with your GPA and whatever else you might add to your application you have a solid chance of getting in. Once you get the interviews, you can shine through! Good luck!

 

[reed0104]

I realize this is a pre-MD board, but why are you guys giving D.O. schools such a second billing?

What is the advantage to go M.D. vs. D.O.? I haven't seen much myself, maybe I missed something.

 

[limit]

If a person is a borderline MD candidate, most people just suggest DO schools because they clearly understand that although many people don't understand what DOs really are, in the medical profession they are almost equal (not 100%, but very very close). A borderline MD candidate would most likely be a shoe in at a DO if they show they are really interested, so most people just suggest to go DO and become a doctor instead of waiting 1 or 2 years to keep re-applying to MD schools.