How to Time First MCAT Attempt/Application

[RNtoMDHopefully]

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Hi everyone,

I have a previous BS in Bio, and now a BSN. My first degree saw a number of Fs and Ds in chemistry and physics. I didn't really care, just needed to struggle through them to finish my bio degree and work in a lab which I successfully did. Went back to school for a second degree in nursing at 27, got a 4.0. I have brought my cGPA up to about a 3.11 and my AACOMAS sGPA is 3.28. Aiming DO, considering an SMP but not sure yet.

I am working full time as an RN on L&D, 3x12s a week with no downtime during shifts, so realistically I will need a more drawn out content review period.

I want to retake
- Gen Chem 1 (F in 2015 -> C in 2016 -> Taking Fall 2026)
- Physics 1 (F in 2015 -> F in 2016 -> C in 2016 -> Taking Spring 2027)
- Gen Chem 2 (C in lecture, C- in lab -> Taking Spring 2027)
- Physics 2 (C in 2017 -> Taking Summer 2027 -> Should I retake this or leave the C as is?)
- O Chem 1 Lecture (D in 2017 -> C in 2017 -> Retake or leave the C as is?)
- O Chem 2 Lecture (C in 2017 -> Retake or leave the C as is?)

I also want to start studying/planning my strategy for the MCAT. Would it make sense to start studying now and do an extended content review?

1. Physics -> GChem -> OChem -> BChem -> Bio -> Psyc/Soc from November 2026 through April 2027 (~6 months) , and then do a diagnostic and switch to uWorld/Anki/AAMC materials and test in July or August (3-4 months).
   1. This method means I won't be applying until 2028, not matriculating until 2029 if I even got in anywhere. I'll be 32 at point which isn't a big deal, truly. I think I'd rather go slow and steady and increase my chance of getting in.
2. Content review as above until February 2027 (4 months) and then move to the next phase in March and test in May or Jun (3-4 months).
   1. This condenses my CR timeline and shows me where I am earlier, gives me the chance to apply in 2027 and possibly matriculate in 2028. If my FLs are not good, I can possibly reschedule and will have my pre-req retakes done. I think this gives me time to apply to SMPs.

I am worried I'm overthinking content review and that I need to just DO something, but I also have a lot on my plate being a mom and working full time and taking a class or two at a time as it is.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated~!

 

[Med Ed]

Having a plan is a good and necessary thing, but I suspect you are focusing a bit too much on details are to too far out.

The first step here is Gen Chem I. Put all your attention on that right now, because whether you breeze through it or struggle along will be very informative.