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7 Secrets to Getting into Medical School with a Low GPA 

How to Get into Medical School   

Getting into medical school is competitive and in addition a low GPA can make it even more challenging. The average GPA and MCAT for acceptance into medical schools in 2022–2023 was 3.62 and 506.5, respectively, according to the AAMC.  

However, it is not impossible to get into medical school with a low GPA. By meeting and exceeding other medical school requirements, you can strengthen your application and increase your chances of getting accepted. 

Here are seven tips to get into medical school with a low GPA: 
  1. Reinvent yourself academically.  Now is your chance to separate yourself from previous academic hardships. Enrolling in additional science courses can demonstrate your academic ability and your commitment to a career in medicine. Consider upper-level biology, chemistry, and physics courses, as well as courses in such related fields as neuroscience, physiology, and pharmacology. 
  2. Get a high MCAT score. The MCAT, Medical College Admission Test, is a standardized test required for all medical school applicants. It assesses your knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts and problem-solving skills. A high MCAT score can help offset a low GPA. You know you are ready for the MCAT when you are earning competitive scores on full-length practice tests.
  3. Raise your undergraduate GPA to at least 3.0. This is the minimum GPA for admission to many medical schools. Consider adding undergrad neuroscience, anatomy/physiology, or pharmacology courses to your basic sciences coursework as needed.
  4. Get involved in research. Research experience is a valuable asset for any medical school applicant, regardless of GPA. Look for research opportunities at your undergraduate institution, a nearby medical school, or a hospital. 
  5. Volunteer or work at healthcare settings. Serving as a healthcare volunteer or employee is another great way to demonstrate your commitment to medicine and gain valuable experience. If not looking at employment, consider volunteering at a hospital, doctor’s office, or free medical clinic. 
  6. Get strong letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation from professors and mentors who can speak to your academic ability, work ethic, and personal qualities are essential for any medical school application. 
  7. Write a compelling personal statement. The personal statement is your chance to tell your story, including why you want to become a doctor. Be sure to write a thoughtful and authentic personal statement that reflects your unique experiences and motivations. If extenuating circumstances led to your low GPA, you may want to speak to those.  

Medical School with a Low GPA 

Here are some other things to consider: 
  • Start planning early. The earlier you start preparing for medical school, the better. This will give you enough time to complete all of the medical school requirements, improve your grades, and gain valuable experience. 
  • Get help from a pre-med advisor. A pre-med advisor can help you navigate the medical school application process and develop a competitive application. 
  • Apply to multiple medical schools. There are a variety of medical schools in the United States, each with its own unique admissions criteria. When applying, cast a wide net and do your research to target the schools at which you have the best chance for acceptance.
  • Apply on time. Applications submitted in May or early June have a better chance to result in an acceptance than ones submitted in July or August.

Remember: Getting into medical school with a low GPA is more challenging, but it is not impossible. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of getting accepted and becoming a successful physician. 

How Can NWHSU’s Post Baccalaureate Prehealth Program Help You Get into Med School With a Low GPA? 

Our Post Baccalaureate Prehealth program can help you improve your chances for admission to medical school with a low undergraduate GPA. Our program can help boost your average GPA and MCAT for medical schools, and allow you to take any prerequisites you may have missed. 

Plus, you won’t get lost in the crowd at NWHSU. Instead, you’ll join a community of dedicated faculty and supportive, motivated peers. You will also have a dedicated advisor who can help you navigate medical school requirements and applications.   

Apply Today! 

As a result of hard work and dedication, 72% of our students with > 500 MCAT and > 3.0 GPA are accepted to medical school. Ready to improve your average GPA and MCAT for medical school? If so, NWHSU’s Post Baccalaureate Prehealth program is here for you. Learn more or talk to an admissions counselor.