GETTING INTO MEDICAL SCHOOL WITH A 2.00 G.P.A. - THE APPLICATION PROCESS FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL
Can you really get into medical school with a 2.00 grade point average? The answer might surprise you. Although it would be difficult, it can be done. It is not likely that a 2.00 student would have the ambition to enter medical school, but with medical school now looking for diversity in students who they enroll the possibility exists. The process of getting into medical school with a 2.00 G.P.A. may be a dream that could come true.
What are the basic requirements for medical school? Medical school is competitive. The average age for a new medical school student is around twenty six. You need to prepare yourself for the rigors of medical school and the admission process. There are no set-in-stone requirements for medical school. Every school is different. It pays to do some research on the schools where you will be applying. In general medical schools want you to have the following coursework:
You need to have a strong GPA. Most medical schools would like to see a 3.5 or better. A GPA of 3.0 or lower is going to send a red flag. Although getting into medical school with a 2.00 G.P.A. is unusual it can be done. It is not impossible to overcome that but you will have a more difficult time most likely. Your MCAT scores are important. This test is given substantial weight by most medical schools. This test is similar to the coursework you will be engaged in at medical school. Most medical school applicants need to take a MCAT test prep course.
You need to have a Baccalaureate Degree. It does not necessarily have to be in the sciences. However you must show proof that you can do college work and have earned a degree. It is also a wise decision to have done some volunteer work in the medical area. Experience in volunteering at a hospital or clinic is a nice addition for your resume. Shadowing a doctor is also recommended for applicants. This will also provide you with a real look at the career you are about to enter.
About 90% of U.S. medical schools use the AMCAS application. This can be downloaded on your computer and filled out. It will cost about $35 per school to send in your application. On top of that each school will charge you $50 to $100 for secondary applications and processing fees. Most experts suggest that you apply to at least 10 medical schools. S o you are looking at $1300 to $2000 in application fees for medical schools.
There is one last reminder for the basic elements of admission for medical school. You will need letters of recommendation. Most medical schools will want to see letters from you undergraduate school faculty members. Be prepared to ask for letters from former faculty members who know you well. You will also have to write an essay of your personal philosophy of life and answer the question of why you want to enter the medical profession. Try to pay attention to your G.P.A. as you attend college because getting into medical school with a 2.00 G.P.A. will not be an easy task.
|