Medical When is an SMP needed?

[TheBoneDoctah]

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I have looked at several pages on this thread regarding SMP vs other options. When is an SMP needed? If have a 3.6 gpa and 3.28 science. I have not taken the MCAT. My first thought is that I should just do a diy post-bac. I think this is the best route with the most flexibility for getting into classes. It is my understanding that a master's is not worth it as a way to show an improved gpa.

I would agree you need sGPA fixing for sure. SMP is looked at as a high risk, high reward option, but most applicants don't NEED it and can get what they need out of a post-bac program. The high risk, high reward means that if you start an SMP and don't do well, it is really tough to move forward since you have basically shown you can't hang with medical level courses. If you complete a year post-bac, you also need to do well (3.8+), but if you don't do as well as you needed to, you can always add on (although more expense and time) an SMP as a last-ditch effort. Usually, we advise students to do DIY post-bacs as they offer your more flexibility so you can arrange your courses around any MCAT studying you are doing or EC work. They are often cheaper options as well.