Which Schools to Apply to? (& AMCAS Timing)

[Assembler]

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I'm planning on taking the MCAT this August, but I've been a bit behind in my priorities. I haven't even looked at the AMCAS application yet. Is it OK if I send out the application after August 14th, since most schools won't even look at my numbers till my scores are in? I know a couple schools hand out automatic secondaries, but well, I don't think there's much significance in that - considering they do it for everyone. Or, should I just get everything done this week and turn it in by early August (ex. August 1st?).

Also, what type of resources did you guys use to research the schools to apply to? I'm trying to find a good list or a book that'll give me a load of information on particular medical school's acceptance rates/average entry requirements/etc. I'm a CA resident, but considering it's fairly competitive out here, I think I might have to apply to 20-25 schools. I definitely need to find some "safety" schools, if such a thing even remotely exists.

Any suggestions?

 

["Electrolights"]

I would advise getting it in as early as possible. The reason being is that if you wait until mid to late August your application is going to get caught up in the late rush to get them in. If that happens it could take weeks to get it processed and verified. By the time you get your secondaries you would probably be looking at late September as a conservative estimate. I know that isn't thaaaat late but there's no sense in letting things go on and on when every day counts.

 

["Electrolights"]

Then again where you are taking the August MCAT I can see both sides of the debate (waiting or turn it in). Well well what a great deal of help that was!

 

[skypilot]

Just make sure the letter of rec package is ready to go and make sure you get all your secondaries submitted by mid September and you should be good to go. Most schools seem to have no screening for secondaries.

 

[DrThom]

Definately work and fill out your AMCAS now....have your transcripts sent in and everything...then here are your two options:

A) If you are definately applying regardless of what you get on the MCAT (you are confident you will do well), submit as soon as it is done so you can get the verifcation process started

B) Wait if you are going to use your MCAT scores to determine whether or not to apply this year...no need to waste all that money applying if your score aren't what you want them to be

 

[Assembler]

Are the LOR's sent out with secondaries? If so, I really need to get a move on things...

I don't think I'm going to wait it out for my August MCAT scores, because that would be fairly late in the game. It takes about 2 months to get them released, doesn't it?

Anyway, thanks for the responses about the timing. I'm going to try and get started on my application this week. Probably have it submitted to AMCAS in early August if all goes well.

No recommendations for resources as to where to apply to, though? I don't know what a good, definitive guide would be that lists accepted GPA/MCAT stats, number of out-of-state matriculants, etc.

 

[Reinhard]

No recommendations for resources as to where to apply to, though? I don't know what a good, definitive guide would be that lists accepted GPA/MCAT stats, number of out-of-state matriculants, etc.

I recommend the MSAR book. I am sure your school library has a copy. Or better yet, buy one for yourself (like I did)! 👍