What grade point average (GPA) should I have to be a competitive applicant for medical school admission?
We tell students that by the end of their freshman year they should have at least a 3.0, by the end of their sophomore year at least a 3.3, and by the end of their junior year, when they normally apply, they should have at least a 3.5. The average GPA for Penn State students accepted to medical school last year was 3.6, and if one has less than a 3.3, he or she should probably consider waiting a year to apply, and bolster their academic preparation.
