Being able to read similar stats of accepted applicants on this thread provided me with a lot of encouragement and hope especially since I didn't have a good academic standing (low average, failed courses). I am IP and was accepted into VFMP.
My stats are:
1st application (during my 4th yr)
Overall GPA: 75 Last 60: 80 pre-req: 71
MCAT: 26P 9/7/10 (PS/VR/BS)
AQ: 17 NAQ: 18.36 Overall score: 35.36 - Rejected Pre-interview
2nd application (after completing degree):
Overall: 79 last 60: 88 pre-req: 71
MCAT: 32N 10/10/12
Non-academics were my strong point. Although I didn't have much hospital exposure such as volunteering in wards, etc., I was very much involved with other community organizations and used my essay to tie in my motivations for community involvement, etc. I think my essay and NAQ list complemented each other well and were the strong point of my applications.
Having low grades is def. a hurdle but certainly can be overcome. I know how stressful it can be to apply with grades that are not on par with other applicants but I think instead of having regrets about low AQ, concentrate on your NAQ and finding out what kind of person you are. Have a lot of people read your EC's and essay and see what they think. I'd be more than happy to help since I recieved a lot of help from many people on this forum as well.
Goodluck everyone.