With 28 test administrations to choose from in 2009,
some MCAT test takers may feel like they've got lots of time
before they should begin prepping for the MCAT. However, quite
the opposite is true. Because there are so many choices, MCAT
test takers have to be even more diligent in their preparation
and time management.
Here's why:
- Med School application
timelines have NOT changed – Students can begin
completing their med school applications in early May and can submit them early June. Students who
take the MCAT in January or April will have scores back in time
to submit a complete application on the opening day. Since most
medical schools work on a rolling admissions basis, the sooner
you can submit a complete application, the better chances you
have, all else being equal. Would you rather be one of 10 people vying for 100 spots (at the beginning of an application cycle) or one of 100 people vying for 10 spots (at the end of a cycle)?
- Flexibility with test
dates – Because there are so many test date
choices, the sooner you begin your MCAT prep the better
prepared you'll be if your plans change and you have to switch
test dates or locations.
- Necessary study time – It takes 300-350 hours on average to study for the MCAT. This includes reviewing the necessary content, learning the critical thinking and computer-based test taking skills, and working on your pacing and endurance to get it all done within the allotted time. Starting your prep early enables you to spread your studies to 10 or less hours per week (for a 30 week study plan) vs 30 or more hours per week (for a 10 week study plan).
- Retest if necessary – Prepping for and
taking the MCAT in the first half of the year allows time to
retest if necessary and still submit a full application by the
close of the application cycle in October. Kaplan recommends
only taking the MCAT once, but many students take the exam
early to leave the retest option open later.
Find the right MCAT program for you—or call 1-800-KAP-TEST today for a free consultation!
