Medical Should I apply later in the cycle?

[Goro]

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Hi,
I'm currently debating applying later in the cycle (maybe octoberish) due to multiple reasons.

I graduated with a degree in biology in Spring 2018 with a 3.84 GPA (sGPA 3.6). I have ~220 hours of hospital volunteer work from 2017-2019 and worked as an English tutor for my local community college for 2 years (maybe ~200 hours). I took my MCAT last year and scored a 513 (128/129/128/128).

My problem lies in my shadowing and nonclinical volunteering. During my gap years I was focused on working and paying down debt, and did not focus on my application as I should have. I was planning on completing shadowing and volunteer work during March/April/May, however I obviously can't complete those due to the current situation. I previously did 8 hours of shadowing a OBGYN, but that's not nearly enough. It also means I don't currently have a LOR from a physician. Im not planning on applying to any high tier schools (UNLV will be my #1). I'm wondering if my chances are shot for this application cycle. Thanks for any input you can give.

If you're a NV resident, you have the luxury of applying later.

I have no idea if the cycle will be prolonged due to the COVID crisis, hence, I'm hesitant on advising of applying to other MD schools.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Focusing on your student debt and paying it down is a very responsible thing, and hopefully the positive impact on your credit rating will help you down the road. There's no shame in trying to work and pay off your student loan balance. Keep connecting with your admissions recruiters and student contacts at UNLV.

 

[Goro]

This just in: AMCAS Application Transmission Date Delayed to July 10

IF AMCAS is OK with delaying app submission, then you'll be OK as well.