You should take the MCATs, at the latest, in April before you apply. You will begin compiling information for the Health Sciences Office in January before the June that you apply. However, there are many individual factors that come into play in the admissions process, so students should consult with Gigi about their individual situations. Yes, many medical schools are aware of Swarthmore, and the excellence of its students and its academic program. They are often willing to consider our applicants with grades that are slightly lower than those of their typical admitted students.
Many applicants take a few years after graduation to strengthen their academic records.
They may choose to take additional science courses at a local university, or to enroll in a formal postbaccalaureate program for students interested in medical school who need to improve their credentials. If you find that you are doing poorly in your science courses at Swarthmore, it may be a wise strategy to put your premed plans on hold, concentrate on subjects you like and do well in, and then do the sciences after Swarthmore if you are still interested in going to medical school. Be sure to consult with Gigi about your individual situation. Yes, the majority of our applicants are now opting to take at least a year between Swarthmore and medical school, to allow them to take a breather between two intense academic experiences, spread out the premed requirements, acquire some work experience, or strengthen their applications. Medical schools often like older applicants because of the maturity and life experience they bring to their applications.