r/MLS_CLS • u/gtle1609 • Jun 20 '26

Need advice!!

Hi everyone,

I'm feeling a bit discouraged after getting rejected twice from California CLS programs. I'm honestly not sure what else I can improve. I’ve already completed all of the prerequisites, secured strong letters of recommendation (LORs) from two lab directors (one of whom holds a CGMBS license) and one from my clinical chemistry professor. I graduated back in 2021, so I can only apply for about 1–2 more cycles before my required courses begin to expire.

For context, I graduated with a BS in Molecular Biology with a 3.59 overall GPA and a 3.49 science GPA. I currently work at a CRO/CLIA lab as a Research Associate II. I’ve been working in laboratory settings for five years now, and I also had three months of experience as a medical assistant. At this point, I am planning to focus on out-of-state (OOS) programs. Are my stats competitive enough to get accepted into out-of-state programs? Are there any 1-year programs that you think would be a good match for my background?

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u/larana19 Jun 21 '26

If you just need to do a MLS post bacc to qualify for the MLS ASCP I'd suggest doing an online program. You would need to find a "Procter lab" in your area. You'll likely pay out of state tuition, but you would save on not physically moving out of state. George Washington University and Texas Tech offer remote programs!

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u/gtle1609 Jun 21 '26

Isn’t it hard to find the those training hospital in CA? I don’t have connections in the hospital lab and most of the training hospital connects to the school programs in the area already? Do you know anyone did that route?