Please Help Me Out!

[HMKB]

Advertisement - Members don't see this ad

Hey guys,

I know you must be all sick of answering these questions but please bear with me. I want your advice about whether or not I should apply to Ireland and the UK's 4 year graduate entry programmes or the 5 year programmes instead.

I finished my bachelor's this spring in the United States and in my first year of graduate school at this time. I graduated with a 3.59 cumulative gpa, a 3.69 science gpa. I'm planning to take the MCAT in January. Assuming I get a 30+ in it, do you think I stand a chance in any of the 4 year programmes in Ireland or the United Kingdom?

I really want to maximise my chances of getting into a medical school, so would you suggest I apply to 4 year or 5 year programmes? Am I even allowed to apply for 5 year programmes since I'm a college graduate? And what schools do you think are a bit easier to get into? I know theyre all hard, but I mean comparitively, which schools are known to accept non-Irish/non-UK applicants with lower stats?

Any suggestions will be much appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Beeper]

Hello HMKB,

I'm not sure whether or not you can apply to the undergrad program, but your GPA is quite respectable. I can't speak for UK schools, but the Irish schools look for more than just grades. They obviously want to know you can manage the workload, but unlike North America, they don't seem to split hairs about a couple of decimal places. Focus on writing a killer personal statement and getting solid references that know you well and can comment on the amazing qualities that make you unique. It's about how you can contribute to the class as a whole as well. A lot of people make the mistake of trying to cram every accomplishment they've ever made into their personal statement. Pick a few key things that highlight who you are (this is hard, I know) and build on that. Interpersonal skills, dedication to the field, personal growth and preparation for the career...it doesn't have to be medically related.

Best of luck!! Ireland is amazing!!!

 

[HMKB]

Thanks Beeper! Finally someone replied haha...any other suggestions? Does anyone have any information about the UK? Do UK schools typically accept graduate applicants from the United States or is this mostly seen in Ireland? It just seems that everyone in this forum is applying to Ireland

 

[schrizto]

Thanks Beeper! Finally someone replied haha...any other suggestions? Does anyone have any information about the UK? Do UK schools typically accept graduate applicants from the United States or is this mostly seen in Ireland? It just seems that everyone in this forum is applying to Ireland

I think it's because all UK schools don't accept the MCAT, they take only the UKCAT. Ireland accepts MCAT, so that's why many U.S. applicants can apply there.