When medical schools receive applications, they will receive a separate science.A low science grade point average can make an application less competitive.College students can raise their grade point average by taking retaking classes and improving their study skills.If you are close to graduating, completing a Post-Bacc may be the best way to raise your science grade point average.
Step 1: It's a good idea to add some easier science classes.
Some science classes, like organic chemistry, are known for their bad grades.You need to fulfill pre-med requirements, but if you take courses like Astronomy, Ecology, Entomology, or Zoology, you can raise your grade point average.You cannot fulfill your pre-med requirements by taking all easy classes, but it can be a way to provide a small boost.The classes that seem science-y do not count.The classes in this category are psychology, public health, and nutrition.The Association of American Medical Colleges has a list of what classes count.
Step 2: The classes should be spread out.
It's not a good idea to take all of your science and math classes in the same quarter.The best way to plan out your 4 years is to talk to a counselor.
Step 3: Take classes you didn't do well in and try to get a better grade.
If you know you can do better than you did in class, you may want to take it again.If you focus on your study habits the second time around, you will be in a better position to succeed.It won't be easy because the material is more familiar.You have to apply yourself.
Step 4: Go to office hours if you study with other students.
Establishing study groups will allow you to create study guides, talk through concepts, and hold each other accountable.Practice problems are a great way to get a feel for the material in math and science courses.You can work on homework during office hours.Learning how to explain material in your own words can help you to better commit it to memory, so alternate between teaching and learning with friends.
Step 5: Make the most of study time by setting goals and eliminating distraction.
If you study for an hour without checking your phone or social media, you will be rewarded.Try using apps like Self Control, which blocks websites like Facebook and Twitter from your computer for a period of time you choose, or putting your phone on do-not-disturb.Quiet study zones like libraries can help you stay on track.
Step 6: Managing your extracurriculars will help you do well in school.
You might need more study time than a friend to get an A.Evaluate what else you spend your time on.Working to pay for college or caring for a family are non-negotiable, but too many clubs or activities can distract you from schoolwork.A detailed calendar is important.You can create routines that work for you by blocking out periods of time.You should keep the things that make you happy.When you do get back to studying, finding activities and people that keep you happy can help you feel more focused.
Step 7: If you want to improve your focus and energy, fit exercise into your schedule.
Studies show that exercising can change the structure of the brain to improve memory.If you want to stay active, find friends who will act as accountability buddies, do online workout videos, and try out new activities like dancing, swimming, or pilates.If scheduling is an issue, there are many affordable gyms, like the YMCA, that offer fitness classes at all times of the day, opening early in the morning and closing late at night.Flexibility is offered by workout videos online for people who can't make it to the gym.You can set up a space in your home or apartment that you can use to work out at night or early in the morning.
Step 8: Do you know if Post-Bacc programs are a good fit?
Post-Baccalaureate programs can be used to improve a medical school application or fulfill additional course requirements.If you excel in the academic-enhancement programs, you can raise your undergraduate grade point average.Look at the reputation of the Post-Bacc and see how many of their students go on to medical school.If this is the case, some schools will feed into their own medical schools.Consider all that the program has to offer.Columbia's post-bacc pre-med program offers support for the MCAT, advising, and help finding volunteer work.
Step 9: Do you want to pursue a Post-Bacc?
It is not a guarantee that you will get into medical school if you do not take advantage of these programs.Whether you think you will be able to excel in your Post-Bacc and how serious you are about medicine are all important considerations.It will be much harder to get into medical school if you have a low grade point average.At that point, you'll have to decide how much you want it and whether you can do better in the Post-Bacc.These programs can be expensive, so look at their loan and financial aid options.15 percent of med-school students have completed some post-baccalaureate work according to the AAMC.
Step 10: Pick which Post-Bacc program is right for you.
Once you know how much financial aid they are giving, applying to several options will allow you to make a decision.You will need to consider cost and chances of getting into a good medical school when choosing a Post-Bacc program.It is your goal to get into medical school.It's worth paying a bit more for that opportunity if one school offers you a better chance.
Step 11: Get to work if you enroll in the Post-Bacc program.
Apply yourself to your courses with dedication after you begin.If you had lower grades in undergrad, you need to work hard, study well, and focus to raise your grade point average.If you excel at your classes, the Post-Bacc can raise your grade point average, but you have to work hard to get there.