Low GPA Can I Still Apply to Post Bac Programs?
Hi! I am considering a post bac program, but my GPA is a 2.6. I had personal complications during my college career. Some post bac programs require even a higher GPA. Should I even consider/bother going to medical school? I know for a fact that I can do extremely well. in preparing for it. Also, if I can't get in a post bac program, can I take classes at a local University?
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Jason's Reply:
Initially, you need to decide if you want to be a doctor in the first place, because I sense some hesitation with the fact you're not sure if you should consider going to medical school or not. Although, this most likely stems from concerns surrounding your GPA.
Don't let personal complications from your undergraduate career prevent you from pursuing medicine. There are some post baccalaureate programs geared specifically towards people who find themselves in a situation such as yours. These are called the Academic Record-Enhancer post bac programs.
These post bac programs are for students who need another chance to show they can perform at a level required for admission to medical school. Additionally, it will help you to gauge whether medicine is something you truly want to do as well. These post baccalaureate programs can be at two levels: Master program or simply Academic Record Enhancer. If you feel you can perform well now that your personal issues have been resolved I would encourage you to go the Master level route.
I encourage you to go the Master route because you will have already completed many or most of your premed requirements and this is where medical schools would like to see you go on your next step to getting admitted.
Before going any farther you're going to have an uphill battle with an undergrad GPA of 2.6 and wanting to get into medical school and even for post bac programs. Here's the steps you need to take to give yourself a fighting chance with post bac admissions committee members.
You show the persistence medical schools are looking for and I think you should definitely go for it, especially after acknowledging you are confident you can do extremely well.
If you are concerned about your numbers preventing you from getting into a post baccalaureate program you'll want to check out my ebooklet, "How to Get Into a Post Bac with a Low GPA" you can learn more here.
In the ebooklet you're going to discover a solid plan of action you can follow, how the AdComs are going to view your application and tactical advice you can implement immediately to get you closer to your dream of becoming a doctor.
Obviously, with subpar numbers it's going to be a lot harder but you can still get into a post bac program, do well and finally get into medical school.
Good Luck,