Some questions about transcripts verification before semester finishes

[linusp]

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This might be a *little* early to ask, but I figured it would be better now than closer to when the application season truly begins.

The school I attend is on the semester system and will finish Mid May, and fully updated transcripts are available around 4 weeks after (though grades well before). I know we can start submitting AMCAS Transcripts for verification after May 5th.

Would it be better to submit this early if I feel that my GPA is strong enough to apply without considering Spring Grades (which may or may not hurt it, depending on how difficult I find the courses). All my BCMP prerequisite courses are complete at this point, and the only prereq I have left is a second semester of college English which I'll be doing this coming spring.

Does it look bad if your spring semester grades lower your GPA, or if you choose not to include them? Do schools look at your most up to date transcript when reviewing your app/before interviews, or do they see what you have for AMCAS. Also, I know A+'s don't affect your GPA, but are they seen by adcoms when reviewing your app?

Thank you for all your help!

 

[Catalystik]

Any A+ that you earned is visible on your AMCAS-generated transcript even though it has the same value as an A.

Some will submit their transcripts strategically as you suggest to avoid demonstrating a downward grade trend. Schools tend to judge an applicant according to the AMCAS calculated GPAs and transcript. But rarely, a med school may ask for an official fall transcript before further considering your file. And it can also happen that a school will not immediately honor a transcript request until the current term is completed. So it's best if you continue to earn the best possible grades and stay on your "A game" as even the best strategy can go awry.

 

[linusp]

Thanks Catalystik for the advice. My hope is to keep my "A Game" up and continue to perform well, but there is one course in particular that I absolutely need for my major that I am very worried about, not for the sake of material, but for the curve and sheer low number of students.

Since I can see this thread evolving into a personalized discussion, would it be alright if I PM you instead?