Before I decided on premed, I actually earned quite a few Cs. I had been scattering my focus between art, science and history classes because I had an undecided major, competing with the equestrian team, and my job serving tables close to campus (that took up way too much of my time).
By November of my sophomore year, I finally decided enough was enough! I spent one evening Googling what I could do with my life and felt a fire light inside me when I decided to major in chemistry with a premed track.
Then I thought about what it would take to get into medical school and instantly felt anxious about the Cs I had earned before I had this great flash of insight about my future.
Can you get into med school with a C or two (or more)?
Well, actually, you still can … and I’m living proof! I managed to snag TEN medical school acceptances despite having five Cs (yes, you read that correctly— 5 Cs!) on my transcript.
If I can do it, so can you! It may take some work, but there are actionable steps that 100% work to turn things around if you find yourself in a similar boat.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure here.
Answering: Can You Get Into Med School With a C?
Will a C Ruin My Chances of Med School?
Now, we all know the pressure of keeping that GPA up for medical school applications. So, it’s only natural to freak out a bit if you see a dreaded C on your grades.
One C isn’t the End of the World!
Sure, it might sting a bit, but it won’t completely derail your dreams of becoming a physician.
If that C happened early in your pre-med journey, no sweat! Just buckle down, improve your grades, and show the admissions committees that you’ve learned and grown from it. Even if the C pops up later on, as long as the rest of your application shines, it’s not a deal-breaker.
But What About Multiple C’s?
Okay, getting four or more Cs can make the road to medical school a bit rockier. But here’s the good news – it’s not impossible! In fact, it’s just a bump in the road that you can overcome with the right strategies and a mindset that you’re ready to put in the extra effort to do what it takes.
Of course, this can also mean your GPA in general turns out to be lower which can be a limitation for specific medical schools. But I will share more tips on this in a bit!
Should I Retake a Class I Got a C in for Med School?
You probably don’t need to! Getting a C in a class is totally fine for fulfilling your medical school requirements. As long as you pass, you’re good to go!
Instead of spending your valuable time and energy on retaking a class, consider taking higher-level biology or chemistry courses and setting your sights on earning the highest grade you can produce.
This tactic works much better for impressing the admissions committees and showing them you’re capable of handling more challenging material. You can also focus on building up other areas of your medical school application, such as your extracurriculars, to give it a boost.
Should I Drop a Course if I’m About to Get Another C?
I wouldn’t recommend choosing to have a W (for withdrawal) on your transcript over settling for a C.
Of course, you could make an argument that getting a W instead of a C might save your GPA. However, those pesky W’s can raise some eyebrows in the eyes of medical schools. It gives off the vibe that you throw in the towel when things get rough, and that’s not the kind of impression you want to make.
What if sticking it out in that class is dragging all your other grades down with it?
Well, you’ll have to either hustle and find ways to study smarter or take the W to save the rest of your classes.
Just like Cs, having one or two W’s isn’t a great look, but it won’t completely derail your application to medical school. However, if you’re already stacking them up, don’t add another one if you can help it. Personally, I’d prefer scoring a C as a better option than racking up more W’s.
If you’re still within the grace period to withdraw without a W, should you?
Then, lucky for you, medical schools won’t even know you bailed. You can take advantage of this timing without being held accountable.
But be cautious with this move because time is ticking to complete all your undergraduate requirements. You don’t want to fall behind on those much-needed college credits. So, only consider it if, for example, a special circumstance makes it highly difficult to do well in this particular class.
How Low Can Your GPA Go and Can You Still Get into Med School?
Most medical schools draw the line at an overall 3.0 GPA. So if you’re below that level, it’s going to be quite tough to get acceptances but not completely unheard of, especially if you have extracurriculars that make you stand out.
The median for successful medical school applicants hovers between 3.6 to 3.8. And if you’re eyeing top-tier schools, even higher GPAs are the name of the game.
If you find yourself below that 3.0 mark, and even if you’re below a 3.5, a post-bacc could be the key to unlocking that medical school door more easily as well as showing an upward trend. Also, focus on improving your science GPA in particular. Work to meet or exceed 3.54, which is the median science GPA for students accepted to medical school.
After all, I’ve seen plenty of Road to Acceptance students get accepted despite having a lower GPA by improving all other factors in their control. Such as Lanise Powell, an RTA alumni who got three acceptances with a 3.2 GPA (2.8 science GPA) and a lower MCAT score of 500. So don’t let your stats define you, instead, give it your best possible shot!
Keep in mind that a lot of schools have a clear GPA cut-off or at least a “suggested” GPA minimum to be considered as applicant, which you can find in the MSAR database. Here are just a few examples from the MSAR:
Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY:
California Northstate University College of Medicine, CA:
Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, NC:
To get more insights into the average acceptance rates based on MCAT score and GPA, check out the table below from the AAMC. If also shows that stats are not everything, since even applicants with higher stats still have a surprisingly high rejection rate.
Road to Acceptance
One of the things that makes a massive difference when applying with lower stats is to improve every single other factor in your control! And that’s exactly what students like Lanise learned through my course Road to Acceptance. Here, I guide you through each step of the application cycle and show you the inside strategies than can make or break your medical school application.
You’ll learn about the common mistakes you want to avoid at all cost, how to actually stand out and my inside strategies to maximize your chance of acceptance!
This could be your story up there very soon!! With Road to Acceptance, it will feel like I am holding your hand throughout the whole process, guiding you through one step at a time. If you want to leave the anxiety and overwhelm behind, this is your chance:
What Can You Do If Your GPA Contains Multiple C Grades?
Can you get into med school with a C? Yes, you can. But you’ll dramatically increase your odds of gaining acceptances if you first follow these strategies.
Create an Upward Trend
Showing an upward trend in your academic performance makes a huge difference! Medical Schools love to see improvement over time. Luckily, the primary application breaks down your GPA by year, giving schools a glimpse into how your grades have gone up.
In my case, I had a rocky start in my freshman year but really turned things around starting in my sophomore and junior years. Be sure to highlight this turnaround in your extra-curricular essays and during your interviews to showcase your dedication to growth.
My upward trend:
Upward trend from a RTA alumni (Lanise):
Seriously Consider a Post-Baccalaureate Program
A post-baccalaureate program offers a great opportunity to boost your chances of getting into medical school. A post-bacc, whether it’s DIY or a program, offers the chance to take higher-level science courses, improve your GPA, and show admissions committees that you’re serious about your academic performance.
After graduation, I entered a post-bacc program which was really helpful in further continuing that upward trend. However, it can get expensive. Personally, I could only afford to complete two quarters. But in that time, I had slightly raised my GPA From 3.1 to 3.3, which extended my positive trend and added another factor to improving myself as an applicant.
Here are the classes I took during my post-bacc, including the grades I achieved:
Ace the MCAT
Scoring in the upper percentiles can also help offset a lower GPA. A strong MCAT score demonstrates your knowledge and readiness for the rigorous coursework of medical school.
So, what score should you aim for? In the 2023-2024 school year, the average MCAT score for students who got into medical school was 511.7. This median tends to be around the number each year.
Give it your best effort on the first try. Then, compare your score, and if it’s not nearly equal to or better than the national average, consider retaking it.
Spending money to retake the MCAT is way cheaper than taking post-bacc classes. In most cases, if you create a plan that includes a consistent 3 to 6-month study schedule, you’ll end up with a much better score. Yes, it’s the kind of exam that you only want to live through once in your life. But I ended up having to take it a second time, and it boosted my score by a whopping seven points!
Focus on Extracurricular Activities
Showcasing your commitment to volunteering, leadership roles, and relevant clinical experiences in the healthcare field can help balance out a lower GPA. Medical schools want to see well-rounded applicants who are dedicated to serving others.
For hands-on patient care experience, nothing beats getting out there and working directly with patients. Consider becoming an EMT, CNA, MA (I can highly recommend the certification program by Advanced eClinical Training), or Phlebotomist. You’ll get invaluable exposure to the medical field.
Personally, I worked as an EMT, and it was an amazing experience. You get to care for patients from start to finish, and it truly gives you a glimpse into the world of healthcare.
Also, remember that volunteering is equally important for medical schools to see on your primary application. So, find an organization that resonates with your passions and get involved for the long haul. Showing your commitment to a single, meaningful volunteer experience over multiple random ones will make a lasting impression on admissions committees.
Want to learn the key strategies I used during the application process to truly stand out? In this Free Premed Workshop, you’ll learn all the mistakes I made the first (unsuccessful) application cycle and how I turned it around and gained 10 acceptances the second time. You’ll learn what it means to apply early, the exact framework I used to write a compelling personal statement, how to identify residency bias so you don’t waste a penny on the wrong schools and much more.
A must-attend if you are applying this or next cycle!
So Can You Get Into Med School With a C? Yes, Even with 5 Cs!
So, to all my C-getters out there, remember this: it’s not the end of the world, and it’s definitely not the end of your medical school dreams. I overcame five Cs by taking the extra steps and using the strategies I shared above—and it worked! Actually, it worked so well that I had my pick of schools and went on to thrive in medical school at the University of Colorado.
So, don’t let a few Cs define you as a student or as a future medical professional. We all stumble. However, it’s in the learning from your missteps and pushing forward where you’ll find success!
Remember, admission committees are looking to accept well-rounded candidates. They love to read how you overcame obstacles and adversities in your extra-curricular essays. So share in detail the story of how you took steps and made a turnaround in your grades to push past the Cs and Ds. Focus on the positives of this journey by highlighting your commitment, grit, and determination.
So, can you get into medical school with a C? The honest answer is it might be more challenging, but it’s definitely possible. Work hard, show your passion, and never give up. You got this!
The road to acceptance giveaway will make my application cycle easier
This will be beneficial for my medical school application cycle.
This is an awesome help, thank you for doing this for pre-meds!!
This would be an amazing tool to help reach medical school.
Helpful tool!
It seems like a great tool! I would be lucky if I happened to win it!
As a first-generation student, RTA is the type of guidance I need! Thank you for creating an incredible program for premeds.
I love this.
Thank you so much for providing me with this free resource filled with priceless knowledge. I am filled with so much gratitude for your generosity, as your website has fueled my confidence in applying to medical school and continuing to invest in my dreams.
This would be so helpful when I apply to medical school, especially since my path has also been really nonlinear. Hopefully it can give me some answers to the questions I have.
I love this so much
I was just looking at what I can do to study for my MCAT
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This is such a great tool for premeds! Thank you for creating this resource!
This would be so helpful, just like everything else you put out for us!
Would love to become part of this community and utilize the resources you’ve provided. Cost has definitely been a barrier this application season and would greatly benefit from this opportunity 🥰
I definitely needed to hear this! Thank you for all the great advice and guidance!
Love this!! ❤️
Thank you Maggie for doing this program! It sounds awesome!
I will definitely be utilizing all of this information!
This is a lifesaver!
Hi Maggie! I have been eyeing the RTA program for a while now but due to financial restraints I have not been able to make the jump. Through this opportunity I will be able to apply for the 25-26 cycle confidently and move closer to my goal of being a physician (first in my family in fact)!
Omg I need this 😭😭😭
This is awesome advice!!
This is really helpful!
Road to acceptance is such an amazing resource and I’m so glad there are non trad pre meds trying to help pave the way for others Maggie!! Thank you!!!
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RTA for the ’25-’26 app cycle would be super ideal!
Hi, this is such an amazing program to be in and I hope to be a part of it.
This would be such a comprehensive resource and I know Maggie’s content never disappoints!
I need this one more than anything!
This would be so helpful. I need a resource still, I’ve been looking for one.
This would be the greatest help to figure out how to navigate to getting into medical school. I stress too much about future and medical school so this would kinda lower my stress.
RTA sounds like such an amazing tool! I recently got an C in a course and reading this post is so reassuring and encouraging! Thank you Maggie!! 💕
I would love to be able to have everything in one place and quickly and concisely be able to access the information I need. Thank you guys for putting this together!
A great tool to have!
Perfect tool for doing it right the first time.
Hi, I would really love this resource as I begin this new journey!!🤍🤍🤍
This is a great tool for the premeds who are unsure on how to proceed with applying to medical school, or even if they are ready to apply.
I would love and appreciate this course!
This would be so helpful!
This is an amazing ressource and would be so helpful!
Starting my application for this cycle right now and this would be so so helpful! Happy there are people like you that choose to help others!!
I joined your Pre-Med workshop yesterday, and it truly gave me the confidence that I can still get into Medical School despite my low GPA. Knowing I can still show my passion and dedication to medicine on paper, you have provided the best advice on how to tackle applications. I would love and so deeply appreciate the opportunity to be gifted this amazing program to further my preparation for this next application cycle!
I was looking into this last time. Seems very helpful. I wish I could afford it.
RTA would be so helpful in navigating the amount of information that is present when applying to medical schools. It is very overwhelming and I would love to have the opportunity to receive this help!
I feel very similar to you now, i also have a few Cs that I would love to overcome application wise. I plan on applying next year or the year after depending on how prepared I feel!
I love this post! Thank you for developing these resources! You’re helping so many premeds!
RTA is an amazing resource. I would love love love to be a part of this program.
Your story is very inspiring. From getting C’s in college to having to retake the MCAT expiration. You have shown us that if you are willing you can achieve your goals! Please continue to keep posting!! It helps us more than you think. Thank you so much for sharing! Your course is an amazing creation.
RTA is an incredible resource that I would love and benefit greatly from! I appreciate Maggie and the team for taking the time to organize programs like this to help pre-med students apply feeling in control and confident. These applications are overwhelming and resources like this provide invaluable insights! I would be grateful to win this advent calendar giveaway!
Would love to join!
As a non-traditional student, RTA would be life changing!! I can’t imagine a better workshop to prepare for medical school!
The RTA seems like an incredible comprehensive program! Would love to win this 🙂
This is an amazing, I have a passion for working with children and want to enter the medical field! This is a great tool to help me understand ALL the requirement and navigation.
This would be so helpful, especially in providing guidance for the extracurricular activities part of the application!
it would be amazing to have this tool!
RTA sounds so so helpful!! Would absolutely LOVE this since I’m applying this cycle!!
I’ve been wanting to enroll in RTA but don’t have the funds. This would be a wonderful Christmas gift for myself!
so excited about this one!!
Truly gives hope!! Would be amazing to have as a guide!
This is an amazing tool!
It would be the most amazing tool to have I am so exited !!!
Maggie I have always loved all your resources and as an early premed student this would be so helpful! I tend to get anxious about applying to med schools in the future but with these resources I know that won’t happen.
OMG, this is awesome and the perfect gift for a first generation low income premed RTA is the best combination that has mentorship step by step that will give me the mentorship and guidance needed to apply to medical school
This would be such a helpful program to have!
This is such a helpful gift!
I’ve been wanting to join RTA but I just don’t have the money right now. This journey is struggle alone, especially when no one I know has gone through it. Just trying to keep my motivation up that I can do this!
This is such a helpful program!
This is very helpful thank you so much for sharing all you do!
OH MY GOSH! Maggie this is huge!! This is so thoughtful and the perfect gift. This post also really helped me as someone with a couple of Cs.
So valuable!
RTA is a first generation student’s dream!! I’ve been hoping this would be included in the giveaway!! All of the resources you’ve spent hours curating is simply amazing!! I plan to apply this cycle and could really use the extra guidance!!🩺🥼
really need this as I’m applying this cycle 🙊❤
rta would be so so helpful
RTA seems like such an amazing program!! I’ve been using Maggie’s MCAT prep course and it’s been incredibly helpful in making my study schedule, I can only imagine what RTA could do for me. I’ve considered buying RTA for a while now but just can’t justify it right now among all of the MCAT prep materials I’ve been spending on. Receiving RTA as a holiday gift would relieve so much stress on me for the upcoming application cycle. I really appreciate Maggie offering this course up as an opportunity for somebody!!
I have heard so many good things about RTA, it would be so cool to be a part of it!
very kind of you to offer this 🥺
Such an amazing resource! It’s wonderful to see so many premeds getting such valuable mentorship.
This program would be so helpful Maggie! Hope I can get the opportunity to use it.
This was both helpful and inspiring, I’m freshman in college and got back my first semester grades, I was freaking out over a B- and that my gpa wasn’t as high as I wanted, knowing that its possible to get into med school with a lower Gpa and Cs helps me feel like I can take off some of the pressure I place on myself
This would help me so much!!
This is much needed!
It would be awesome to receive such mentorship 🙂
RTA sounds amazing! Would love to have this type of guidance and support!
Now this is such a helpful tool / resource for pre-med students on their journey to medical school.
Questions I have asked when deciding to attempt this track again. Thankful for your posts to help give me reassurance and guidance! Would love to get RTA
I have had my eye on this program for a year and would love to receive this as a gift this year!! It would be a game changer for applications!
This is such an amazing tool to help reach your dreams! I would love this course
This is such a great gift for students that are confused on how to make a pathway to reach goals for becoming doctors. I would loveeee this!
I feel like this post was specifically made for me, a sporadic collection of 5 C’s. I’ve been on the fence about doing a post-bacc but I think this convinced me to give it a try. Thank you!
Designed to help students get to their dream of becoming a physician, this program would be a phenomenal gift to receive this holiday season.