Updating GPA

[Shrizzle]

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Hi guys!

I am planning on applying this cycle with lower credentials than I would have liked. Would it be possible to take a few classes this summer, get As in them, and then update my BCPM in my application. If it is possible, would it even help?

Background:
- I am a double major in biological sciences and philosophy.
- I have a 3.298 BCPM and a 3.53 cumulative @ 152 credits
- 9 credits of science will push me 3.373 (still low, but better)
- I receieved a 28 on my July 2012 MCAT, I plan to retake in May 11. Hopefully I can pull off a 32+

 

[GrabSlamBoot]

So someone correct me if I'm wrong but when you submit your primary application you also should have sent transcripts to AAMC so that they can verify your entered grades. Say you submit your primary in June, your verified grades will show up on your primary app, but after your app has been verified you can no longer log onto AMCAS and update your grades. So your primary app is effectively set. As far as updating schools with your grades, you could email those schools at the end of the summer session and let them know how you fared in those classes and your new GPA. To be honest though, I'm not sure if mentioning a 3.2 to a 3.3 bump is even worth it though.

 

[Nymphicus]

Moved to Pre-Allo discussions.

The above poster is correct in that if you submit your application, summer classes will not be included in your primary application GPA calculations. The best it could do is be included in an update letter, which is a pretty weak option.

 

[DocGodfather]

I was under the impression that AAMCAS allowed us to enter classes in-progress when submitting primary applications, and then updating when the classes are finished. This may just be an AACOMAS thing, or I just may be wrong. Anyone know?

 

[Lollygag]

Couldn't you just take very early summer classes (my school allows pre-session that lasts 3-4 weeks and start immediately after spring semester but end by june 6thish) Wait a couple weeks or so for it to make it to the transcript and apply late june? Obviously OP shouldn't be taking classes that last till August but I think with careful planning it is definitely doable to take early summer classes that make it to amcas before you apply. But please correct me if I'm wrong as I haven't applied yet but was thinking of doing something similar.

 

[GrabSlamBoot]

Couldn't you just take very early summer classes (my school allows pre-session that lasts 3-4 weeks and start immediately after spring semester but end by june 6thish) Wait a couple weeks or so for it to make it to the transcript and apply late june? Obviously OP shouldn't be taking classes that last till August but I think with careful planning it is definitely doable to take early summer classes that make it to amcas before you apply. But please correct me if I'm wrong as I haven't applied yet but was thinking of doing something similar.

I mean techinically, yes you could. Many schools like mine though (and maybe OP's) do not offer this option and instead summer class will end around end of June. Keep in mind that as summer progresses the verify time for your app increases. It doesn't become too drastic of a wait time until you hit July/mid-July

 

[Microglia]

I was under the impression that AAMCAS allowed us to enter classes in-progress when submitting primary applications, and then updating when the classes are finished. This may just be an AACOMAS thing, or I just may be wrong. Anyone know?

I don't believe it does. It told me to put all my planned classes for the rest of the year (fall and spring of senior year for me) and leave the grade field blank. Never gave a chance to update the grades or anything like that through AMCAS, which is why most do it in school specific LOI's I believe.