|
 |
|
|
PostDoc | |
Alumni | |
Employers | |
Faculty | |
Parents |  |
 |
|
The Computer-Based MCAT For extensive information about the MCAT, including information on how and when you can schedule a test, test site locations, and ordering practice tests, see: http://www.aamc.org/students/mcat/start.htm See especially “MCAT Essentials,” required reading for those registering for the test: https://www.aamc.org/students/download/63060/data/mcatessentials.pdf The MCAT is now offered about 22 times each year. There are now dates available to take the test in late January, or in any month from March through September. Scores will be reported about 30 days after you take the test. When should I take the MCAT? You should submit the primary application for medical schools (AMCAS) by mid-July at the latest, and it is a very good idea to know your MCAT score before you commit yourself in that way. So the latest, ideally, that you would take the MCAT would be in mid-June of the year in which you apply. If you were to schedule the test later, your scores would arrive later of course, and, importantly, you would need to apply before you had a chance to see your scores—which could be something of a gamble. So we would recommend scheduling the test in mid-June in the year you apply, or any earlier test (provided you’re ready; see below). For dates of the tests—and the first dates on which you can register for the test—see “MCAT Essentials” or: https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/mcat/reserving/152894/deadlineandscorerelease.html Generally, you will be able to register up to six months in advance. Try to schedule as early as possible. If you don’t schedule more than 60 days in advance of the test, there’s no guarantee of a seat within 100 milesyour desired location. You can’t hold more than one date at a time (though you still will be able to retake the test in the same year if that proves necessary). You should still aim to take the test only once you have completed your required courses. The MCAT is a knowledge-based exam, designed to test your understanding of the required pre-medical courses (biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics). Therefore, you should not take the test until you have completed these courses. Students preparing for a test in the spring before they apply generally are taking Organic Chemistry II that spring, and will complete Orgo as they take the exam. A few students will have the requisite coursework completed by the end of their sophomore year, and for that reason, they can take the MCAT before junior year, if they wish. Obviously, you need to study for the test, and it is a good idea to start months in advance in order to get a sense of what progress you need to make. Practice computer-based tests are available at the AAMC web site, and the test prep companies, naturally, sell instructional books and CDs with practice tests (and the Career Services Library has some; of course you may also want to buy your own). All medical schools require the Medical College Admissions Test. The test is comprised of four sections: three multiple choice sections that test Verbal Reasoning, Physical Reasoning (general chemistry and physics), and Biological Reasoning (introductory biology and organic chemistry), as well as a Writing Sample. The multiple choice sections are each graded on a numerical scale from 1-15, while the writing section is graded on an alphabetic scale from J-T.
For how long are MCAT scores valid? Most medical schools will accept scores that are up to three years old. However, some schools require that scores be no more than 2 years old. You should consult the Medical School Admission Requirements book, published annually by the Association of American Medical Colleges, if you have questions about specific schools and their policies regarding the MCAT. If you are planning on taking several years off after graduating (to enter the Peace Corps, for example), be sure to take the MCAT so that the scores will not expire before you matriculate.
How do I register for the MCAT? You must register on-line, via the AAMC web site.
What if I can’t afford the registration fee for the MCAT? The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) offers a Fee Assistance Program (FAP) for students in extreme financial need—i.e. for students whose inability to pay the registration fee would prevent them from taking the test and applying to medical school. Students who are approved for the FAP can register for the MCAT at a reduced rate (less than half of the standard fee). More information can be obtained from the AAMC Web site.
If I have a learning disability, can I get extra time to take the MCAT? It is possible to get extra time, but the MCAT Program Office does not automatically allow it, even if you have a well-documented and long-standing learning disability. If you are seeking an accommodation, you will have to make a formal request, and provide documentation from a doctor or a qualified learning specialist who can explain how your disability specifically relates to taking the MCAT. A full description of the required documentation can be found in the registration information provided by the MCAT Program Office.
Should I take a prep course for the MCAT? Many students find the structure of an MCAT prep course to be very helpful. The course gives a study regimen and makes it less likely that you will fall behind in reviewing for the test. However, you certainly are not required to take a prep course. Many people who are good at studying in a disciplined way can be successful using test prep books and doing several full-length practice tests.
Ideally, you should take the MCAT once. Do not take the MCAT just to see how you do. Take it only when you feel prepared to do your best. If, when you receive your scores, you feel that you have not performed to your potential, you may consider taking the test again. This is a good thing to discuss with a pre-health advisor. Medical schools typically will look at the most recent set of scores when considering an application, although some will average them.
Should I retake the MCAT if my overall score is strong, but the score on one of the individual sections is weak? Medical schools value consistency across MCAT sections. Sometimes, however, students will falter on one section—typically the Verbal Reasoning section. Talk to a pre-med advisor about whether to take the test again. In many instances, it is better to take the test again and show consistency across sections, than to allow a low score to stick out as a “red flag.”
If I do poorly in my science courses at Penn, but do well on the MCAT, will the medical schools discount my Penn grades? A strong, or even stellar, MCAT score will not compensate for a consistently weak academic record. However, if you struggled with one science in particular (such as general chemistry), doing well on the corresponding section of the MCAT can help erase questions about your preparedness for medical school. |
© Career Services, University of Pennsylvania. Not to be copied or distributed without permission. 2010
Career Services • University of Pennsylvania
Suite 20, McNeil Building • 3718 Locust Walk
Philadelphia, PA 19104-6209
Phone: 215.898.7531
Fax: 215.898.2687
Click here for a mapOffice Hours: Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Extended Library hours when classes are in session: Mon-Wed, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM