How To Study For The MCAT
What is the MCAT? When should I take it?
Step 1
The MCAT is principally designed to test your critical thinking skills. As a result, you should focus on scientific concepts and how they’re applied in different scenarios during your preparation.
Step 2
Review the admission requirements of each school you plan to apply to before signing up for the MCAT. Although most medical schools located within the United States require potential students to take the MCAT, some schools do not.
Step 3
Sign up for either the April or August test. Most people choose a date which best accommodates their preparation schedule and intended medical school enrollment date.
Step 4
Complete the registration packet once it becomes available after February 1. The packet can be acquired from the MCAT Program Office by calling (319) 337-1357 or from a school advisor.
Step 5
If you think you qualify, ask about the test fee-reduction option.
Preparation
Step 1
Do not cram for the MCAT. Begin your preparation a few months prior to the test.
Step 2
During your MCAT preparation period, do not stress yourself out by taking too many undergraduate classes.
Step 3
Establish a study schedule that will provide you with enough time to address any problem areas.
Step 4
Take multiple comprehensive practice tests under simulated test day conditions. Complete an initial diagnostic practice exam to decipher your weaknesses, so you can know what to focus on during your subsequent MCAT preparation. Also, be sure to take a practice test just prior to the actual test to have an idea of what you must address before test day.
Step 5
Purchase the following study guides provided by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): Practice Test II, III, and IV, Practice Items, and the MCAT Student Manual. If you cannot find them at the bookstore, you can purchase them online.
Step 6
Speak to people who’ve obtained a high score on the MCAT to find out what study materials they utilized during their preparation. Good study guides can be found at most college bookstores.
Step 7
If you still have them, review your notes from science courses you’ve completed. This could include organic chemistry, biology, and physics.
Step 8
Many students preparing for the MCAT benefit by enrolling in a preparation class. These courses are held on most college and university campuses. Since these classes often fill up quickly, sign up as soon as possible. If you do not want to pay to take a preparation course, borrow study materials from your friends who’ve taken a course.
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