32 range on Kaplan tests, but low 20's on AAMC tests...What do I make of this?

[PreMedSucks]

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I have take a number of Kaplan full lengths and was feeling pretty good getting in the 32 range. Just took AAMC test 9, which I heard was a good predictor and got a 23. That was with 77 percent in Bio and Physics. I apparently bombed verbal. What do I make of this? My test is in less than a month!

 

[BrawnsNBrain]

Having gone through two MCAT official tests I'm going to be blunt.

The claims of 'practice test ___ is a great indicator of my real score' is so incredibly subjective you should ignore it. You're not scoring consistently because you're either A) not studying consistently or B) not solidifying material & making the most of your study time. That's why you have large exam score fluctuations. You should be scoring consistently at a level you want before you take the real thing.

You need to study regularly, consistently, and focus on learning the material not memorizing it in a short term bank. Use the breakdowns at the end of AAMC exams to your benefit! It shows if you improve in categories. I plotted questions correct per category over time in excel to track my progress. It was so simple to do and incredibly helpful.

 

[Paean1]

From my personal experience, I strongly suggest waiting to take the exam until you feel 100% ready.

I did not study at all the first time I took the exam and I had shingles (probably from the stress of not having studied! lol). I scored a 31, which is decent, but all of my siblings and cousins had scored 38+. I have been preparing for the last two months and plan to re-take it in June, but if I do not feel 100% prepared I will postpone it.

Like Brawns said, don't set your expectations based on the practice exams. In my opinion, study until you feel like you've done just about as much as you can (within reason).

 

[PreMedSucks]

But what do i make of the fact that I am scoring 10 points higher on my kaplan tests? Is this normal?

 

[benjaminl1nus]

But what do i make of the fact that I am scoring 10 points higher on my kaplan tests? Is this normal?

Absolutely nothing. I'm sorry, but Kaplan test results are likely overestimates of your actual MCAT performance (please note that this is purely anecdotal evidence, from friends & other people on this forum)

Test prep company practice exams, harder or easier, aren't reliable indicators of MCAT success, I'm sorry. Only AAMC exams will give you your best hints, and even then this will be an estimate