Will my past low grades prevent me from getting into pharmacy school?

[pharmgirl586]

Hello! I need some advice. I spent my first two years at a community college where my cGPA is approximately a 3.3 overall.I then transferred to a university were I did not do so well. I kept getting C's after C's and I lost hope in ever becoming an A student. I got a 2.4 and 2.5 in Orgo 1 and 2, and a 2.5 in Gen Chem II, a 3.7 in Gen Chem I. My lowest cGPA at the university at one point was 2.67. One day I decided to turn my grades around and have been getting A's and B's ever since. But even though I would get good grades my GPA would increases only a tiny bit. I was able to raise my cGPA at the university from a 2.67 to a 3.25, because the GPA of the last 56 credits that I have taken at the university is a 3.59.

To summarize:
Community college cGPA ~3.3 (mostly gen end classes)
University cGPA is a 3.25 (mostly science classes)
Last 56 credits at the university 3.59 (upper level science classes, except two upper level German classes)

1. Do I have any hope of getting into pharmacy school?
2. I am looking at pharmacy schools that do not require a PCAT. Do those schools actually accept students on a regular basis without having the PCAT ?

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[pms_testosterone]

Yes, you have a chance. And if the school says PCAT is not required, then it really is not required.

However, considering your so-so GPA, I feel you could increase your chances of getting into a (good) pharmacy school by taking the PCAT.

 

[pharmgirl586]

Thank you for your feedback! I really appreciate it!

 

[PromisedNeverland]

Hello! I need some advice. I spent my first two years at a community college where my cGPA is approximately a 3.3 overall.I then transferred to a university were I did not do so well. I kept getting C's after C's and I lost hope in ever becoming an A student. I got a 2.4 and 2.5 in Orgo 1 and 2, and a 2.5 in Gen Chem II, a 3.7 in Gen Chem I. My lowest cGPA at the university at one point was 2.67. One day I decided to turn my grades around and have been getting A's and B's ever since. But even though I would get good grades my GPA would increases only a tiny bit. I was able to raise my cGPA at the university from a 2.67 to a 3.25, because the GPA of the last 56 credits that I have taken at the university is a 3.59.

To summarize:
Community college cGPA ~3.3 (mostly gen end classes)
University cGPA is a 3.25 (mostly science classes)
Last 56 credits at the university 3.59 (upper level science classes, except two upper level German classes)

1. Do I have any hope of getting into pharmacy school?
2. I am looking at pharmacy schools that do not require a PCAT. Do those schools actually accept students on a regular basis without having the PCAT ?

you're stats look fine, when are you planning to apply ? and where are you planning on applying?

 

[Crossfinger]

what makes you be afraid of taking pcat?
you only need to study approx. 1~2 months to aim 80+.
With good pcat, you have good chance to go to above avg pharm school.
I do not recommend schools that do not ask pcat score. I believe they are mostly private school and I do not like private school for some reasons.

My gpa is similar to yours but I didnt take classes in cc and I had my BS biochem when I applied.
With degree, you have better chances than other applicants, I am sure of it.

I just want you to take pcat and prepare your application asap in next cycle.

 

[Amicable Angora]

Absolutely take the PCAT. If you're applying solely to schools that do not require one, you would be considered lower tier.

 

[dizpnoyownzyoo]

Absolutely take the PCAT. If you're applying solely to schools that do not require one, you would be considered lower tier.

I know a some good California schools are exceptions to this. Neither UCSD nor USC require the PCAT. UCSF started requiring it as of this past application cycle (for 2017 enrollment).

I recommend taking the exam though. Somewhere around 75% of pharmacy schools require it so you'll certainly expand your options!