Taking an extra year to graduate

[angelino]

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How is taking a 5th year viewed by med schools? Is not graduating in 4 years a red flag? On top of that, I will have a lighter course load during the 5th year as I have already completed most of my classes. Is a lighter load in the last year of school negative (12 credits and only 6 will be academic classes + senior thesis)? I will be on a research project, involved in EC, and obtaining community and clinical hours.
Thanks.

 

[Nontrad_FL_LGBT]

Basically a built in gap year. I doubt anyone cares as long as you're doing stuff.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Relax. This is not a problem. Just present a strong application showing you are prepared for medical school when you submit.

 

[angelino]

Thanks for the replies! I feel a little less stressed about it now.

 

[sjLando]

The majority of applicants have a gap year nowadays.