A few days ago
How likely would it be for someone in their mid thirties to gain acceptance into medical school?
Ten years ago, I applied to medical school and wasn’t accepted. My GPA at that time was a 3.2 with 9s and 10s on the MCAT. Since then, I have worked in law enforcement (detective, child exploitation crimes unit) and EMS. Now I am considering reapplying to medical school. I am now 34 years old and would have to retake some of the basic science coursework and the MCAT. Obviously, I know that a higher GPA and solid MCAT scores are a must, but how do they view older applicants with experience in other, non-medical careeer areas? How could I improve my chances of acceptance? Is this impossible at this point in my life? Oh, I should probably state that I am now a full-time student pursuing nursing and doing quite well with that. The bad thing is that I am not sure that is what I really want (and didn’t know it until I had started down that path). I’m asking this genuinely, and would like genuine answers. Thanks in advance for your help.
Top 4 Answers
A few days ago
Favorite Answer
Medical schools are looking for a diverse student population. Retake your MCAT and apply again. You’ve got experience under your belt, you’ve gotten some experience in the medical field, it’s worth a shot! The worst they can say is no, and you’ve only wasted a little money and time, but will probably regret it if you don’t try again. Good Luck. It’s not too late to pursue your dreams.
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A few days ago
Unfortunately, there is an age bias with US medical schools–and an even more blatant bias with med school loan programs. As to what the ‘cut-off’ is, I’m not certain. I was 51 when I returned to med school and although I have excellent credit, I was declined student loans. Not to be deterred, I went offshore and had no problems. A number of my classmates, also older students, were also declined student loans. A married couple were in their mid-30’s and most of the rest were over 40.
I say that not to deter you–you may get accepted in school and for a loan. You won’t know until your try. But if you are declined for either, look to the Caribbean schools.
Feel free to contact me if I can answer any more questions.
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A few days ago
Medical schools don’t care about age, as long as you are capable of doing work. I think it probably is in your favor to be older and having more experience (life, work, school…). Retake the MCAT and apply again. I hope you’d make a good doctor someday. Good luck!
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5 years ago
Med experience is not necessarily “necessary” to be accepted into med school. Great grades, a four year degree, preferably in science of some sort, letters of recommendation, publication/s, and a healthy ego work just fine.
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