Balancing between pre-reqs and applying early

When I applied for school I had 2 pre-reqs in progress (Anatomy and Physiology II And Organic chemistry). I know there is a lot of emphases placed on applying as early as possible.


I submitted my CASPA in April (less than 2 weeks after the application opened) and I finished my two remaining classes in May. However, after my CASPA application was completed and verified it wasn't mailed to my designated programs until mid June! (This was the first mailing of applications for CASPA, as I contacted them and asked them when they were going to get mailed out).



Before I was accepted to Pacific University I did investigation as to why I was not considered at other schools for an interview. 


A.T. Still University in Mesa, AZ was my first rejection letter.   When I finished my remaining pre-reqs in May, I had sent the school my official transcripts with the final grades. It was my desire that they would at least see that the courses were completed in order to give me a better chance to get an interview. 


After receiving the rejection letter I wanted to get an Idea of how to make my application stronger if I needed to apply next year. when inquiring and how I could make my application better for next year, they said that they could not consider those transcripts I sent unless I was given an interview. (bummer) The committee also mentioned, besides the program being competitive, that if I had all of my pre-reqs completed I would have had a better chance of an interview! 

Each program is different and each acceptance committee looks for different important attributes from applicants. Its all about balance. If an applicant has an amazing application and fits what the program is looking for, but they have 2 pre-reqs in progress, they may easily consider this applicant. 


It is my opinion that one may have better chances of getting an interview if it shows on the CASPA that all pre-reqs are completed. The CASPA application process usually begins April 18th, and for those who are finishing pre-reqs in May it might be a good idea to wait 3 weeks or so and submit the CASPA with the pre-reqs completed, rather than 'in-progress'.  


Since the first mailing of CASPA applications are not sent out until the middle of June, this would be enough time to send CASPA transcripts and have the application submitted with the pre-reqs completed. 


This is not a perfect 'glove-fit' for everyone, not everyone's circumstances are the same. I was blessed, and lucky enough to get accepted with two pre-reqs 'in-progress' on my application. However, if there is anyway to have increased chances of getting an interview, I feel it would be worth considering.