Is it true? - The MCAT (this is not a pre-med question)

[moonwake]

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I've been reading studies on the MCAT and there's speculation on whether the MCAT gives a good estimate on how the applicant will perform on the COMLEX/USMLE. I know that there will always be exceptions (not having studied for the MCAT or w/e), but I figured I might as well throw this question at SDN.

 

[Drrrrrr. Celty]

Yes there is a correlation. However it tapers off quiet early. The test does serve it's function well enough as can be expected from any one singular test.

But the issue is that there is more difference between the pass rate of a 24 and 27 than a 27 and a 40.

 

[LChristmas]

The most accurate predictor of board scores is preclinical performance. I saw something on here awhile ago that indicated scoring below 25(ish) on the MCAT correlated with poor board scores. In others words, for pretty much everyone matriculating to USMD the MCAT does not predict board performance.

 

[moonwake]

I guess my biggest fear is since I sucked at physics (and I assume there is very little physics that pertains to medical school curriculum) that it wouldn't mean anything in terms of USMLE/COMLEX performance?

 

[j4pac]

I guess my biggest fear is since I sucked at physics (and I assume there is very little physics that pertains to medical school curriculum) that it wouldn't mean anything in terms of USMLE/COMLEX performance?

The USMLE isn't designed to test what you know. It is designed to test how you apply information. The truth is that very little of what you actually learn in undergrad is important in medical school...and the stuff that is, it is retaught anyway.

 

[moonwake]

The USMLE isn't designed to test what you know. It is designed to test how you apply information. The truth is that very little of what you actually learn in undergrad is important in medical school...and the stuff that is, it is retaught anyway.

Yeah since anyone can get a degree in anything to go to medical school- everyone is starting from scratch. I guess what I'm asking is if it is an ok predictor since I did bad on 1/3 of the test (physics). Since the physical sciences are so different from the type of knowledge you learn in medical school - if you have problems mastering them - has anyone run into problems studying for step 1?

 

[Goro]

Poor MCAT (24 and less) performance correllates with higher risk of failing out of med school and failing Boards. But a 28 = 35 = 40, for all other scores.

Good standardized test takers will always have an edge on any standardized test.

I've been reading studies on the MCAT and there's speculation on whether the MCAT gives a good estimate on how the applicant will perform on the COMLEX/USMLE. I know that there will always be exceptions (not having studied for the MCAT or w/e), but I figured I might as well throw this question at SDN.