Hanna Renaldi's Blog: Which Type of Postbac Program is Best for You?

There are several critical areas of the application that you as an applicant have the power to improve. If you want to become a more competitive applicant to medical school, there are many different types of postbac programs that can help you. It’s simply a matter of determining where you need support and identifying the types of programs that will enable you to move forward in your education.

Let’s take a look at some of the factors you’ll need to address when determining which postbac program is best for you.

1. Low GPA – Single-Focus Program

If you have a GPA that is below a 3.0, you may consider single-focus postbac programs that will allow you to take a full course load of upper division science courses. These programs often have an academic advisor who will help you select classes and determine the strongest course combinations. Some programs even have test banks. The main focus of these programs is improving your GPA.

2. Low GPA and Weak Activities – Dual-Focus Program

When reviewing your CV/resume, how many activities do you have listed? Have you covered the critical areas of:

• Clinical experience

• Community service

• Leadership

• Research (optional for most medical schools)

If you do not have any long-term activities or have not covered the critical areas mentioned above, then dual-focus programs may be a way for you to improve your GPA while strengthening the activities section of your application. Some of these programs have established volunteer or research programs. You will not have to waste any time submitting applications or looking for experience in these areas once you are accepted into their program. They will help you get impressive experience, often while providing academic support in your coursework. Multi-tasking in a program like this can prove to selection committees that you are indeed ready to take on the responsibilities of medical school.

3. Low GPA and Low MCAT (below a 25) – Multi-Focus Program

If you need to improve these areas, a multi-focus program could be your best option. They often offer a summer program or support in preparing for the MCAT. Many of these programs encourage students to focus only on academics during the school year but encourage participation in volunteer work or research during the breaks and may even offer direct connections to opportunities on their undergraduate and/or medical school campus. They provide the most comprehensive support in all areas of the application, before and during the process of applying.

Do you need assistance with your postbac or medical school application or essays? Work with a professional Accepted consultant who will help you sharpen your competitive edge and get accepted.

Alicia McNease Nimonkar is an Accepted advisor and editor specializing in healthcare admissions. Prior to joining Accepted, Alicia worked for five years as Student Advisor at UC Davis’ postbac program where she both evaluated applications and advised students applying successfully to med school and related programs. Want Alicia to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!