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- Frequently Asked Questions
Academic Background
What GPA is considered competitive?
Minimum GPA expectations depends on both the profession and the schools you are applying to.
- Dental: Compare your stats to average GPA and DAT scores in the ADEA Official Guide
- Medical: The national average for acceptance into USMD schools is an overall 3.70 GPA. The national average for science GPA is 3.65. If your overall GPA is below a 3.4 and your science GPA is below a 3.3 consider post-baccalaureate course work to demonstrate your competence in college-level science course work.
- Optometry: Review the Student Profile of applicants and those who enrolled.
What is the difference between major GPA vs. UC GPA vs. science GPA? Which is more important?
Your major GPA is calculated by your upper division courses taken at UC that fulfill major requirements. You can see this on your degree audit. Read more about Calculation of the GPA in the Major.
Your UC GPA counts grades in all UC classes. For grades of D, F, or NP earned at UCSD, the first 16 units of courses that are repeated after receiving a grade of D, F, or NP will not be used in UC GPA. (See the full Repetition of Courses Regulation). All grades earned at UCSD will appear on your transcript, even if the original grade is removed from your UC GPA by grade replacement.
Your science GPA is calculated by the professional school you’re applying to. They typically look at all attempts of all courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
Use the AAMC Tools and Tutorials to learn more about completing an application to medical school.
Do I need to be a science major to get into healthcare?
No. Generally, science-based majors may directly overlap with more prerequisite requirements of a health professional program. However, students should focus first on choosing a major they can perform well in and have strong interest in. Then, plan to include courses for admission requirements for the profession you are interested in. See more at Academic Preparation.
Can I take prerequisite courses online / remote version?
Yes, you can take some prerequisite courses online, but whether they're accepted depends on which professional schools you plan to apply to and whether the courses include a lab.
Many schools will accept online coursework for statistics, calculus, behavioral science, and science electives. These online courses should come from an accredited college or university, not a non-degree entity.
Core science courses are more likely to have restrictions, especially regarding the laboratory component. Plan to take your lab courses in person only.
Every institution’s requirements are unique to their campus. For instance, the UC San Diego School of Medicine does accept online coursework from accredited institutions and extension programs to meet their Course Recommendation List.
Can I take classes through Extended Studies for prerequisite courses?
UC Extended Studies courses 1-199 or X1-X199 are UC-transferable for credit toward your UCSD degree. Courses numbered 400 or 800 level are considered to be professional or interest based and do not grant UC degree credit.
Human Anatomy w/ Lab (BILD X13) through UCSD Extended Studies is a popular option for our pre-health students.
Involvement/Experience
Do I need research experience to get into a profession such as medical school?
Research experience can be helpful if you are motivated by a specific area of study; however, research is not a key component for most medical practices. Consider it a benefit for some, but not necessary for most schools.
How many extracurricular activities should I have, and is depth or breadth more important?
Generally, strong applicants have some breadth and depth of experience. Students should explore a variety of experiences to develop an understanding of their own skills and competencies. Once a student finds experiences they want to develop, we recommend having a select few they should spend more time working on.
Applications
How many schools should I apply to?
Each profession requires a different number of schools to apply to based off competitiveness of program and professional track.
When is the best time to apply, and should I take a gap year?
A majority of students apply after graduating or even one to two years after graduation. This timeline is unique for every student, and we strongly recommend students consider if they will be ready for all aspects of the application when they decide to apply to professional school.