Strict GPA Residency Cutoffs

[Karawak07]

Hi everyone,

I'm curious if anyone knows how rigid the 3.0 GPA cutoffs are for residency applications? For example, if someone has a 2.97 GPA is there still a possibility of being interviewed at residencies with a 3.0 cutoff? Is it a grey area, or very black and white.

Thank you!

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[DexterMorganSK]

If they like your work during your externship years, they might be able to make an exception. At that point, if you have a 4.0, but are impossible to work with, then you will not match there. In your example, if that applicant is hardworking, goes the extra mile, and can work within a collaborative manner, then I believe the PDs can make an exception. IMO, our work during the 3rd/4th years matters way more for residency than GPAs cutoff.

But that's what I have seen/heard from uppers since I'm also a student, so maybe a resident/attending can comment.

 

[plant based]

I'm also not too sure, but from what I've heard, everything is mostly based on your externship performance, & if you're a good fit for the program.
However, I am quite skeptical when it comes to the competitive programs asking for a 3.5+, if they have enough students applying with that GPA, I feel like they would skip over people with less than that. If anyone can chime in, that would be great.

 

[Greenpod17]

Some programs do have strict cut-offs and won’t even view your application past that. Others have more of a “recommendation” for GPA. As long as you perform well on your externship, GPA will be one of their last concerns. But, take that as a generalization- everything is always going to be program dependent. I would ask classmates from your school that have attended the specific program for more detailed insight.