January MCAT Scaling/Grading??

[MedicToMD]

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I've heard both that taking the MCAT in January can help or hurt your final score.

Since it is supposed to be scaled to the "competition," does taking the first or second test of the new cycle really help or hurt?

Thoughts?

 

[BABSstudent]

I've heard both that taking the MCAT in January can help or hurt your final score.

Since it is supposed to be scaled to the "competition," does taking the first or second test of the new cycle really help or hurt?

Thoughts?

There are so many people that take the test that the average doesn't change between the January tests and the later tests. That's what a large sample size will do.

 

[cuculici1]

All MCATs are pretty much equivalent in terms of scaling. No point in worrying about that, just focus on your studying and improvement.

 

[angldrps]

I've heard both that taking the MCAT in January can help or hurt your final score.

Since it is supposed to be scaled to the "competition," does taking the first or second test of the new cycle really help or hurt?

Thoughts?

there is no way for you to figure out which MCAT test date would have a tougher scale. Worry about studying and take it when you are most ready, whichever month that may be.

 

[MedicToMD]

I'm scheduled for the Jan 24th test. Not really worried about it to the point of trying to change the test date, just curious more than anything.

The mind wanders between MCAT study sessions.

I am interested from a statistical and process point of view more than anything.

 

[gettheleadout]

there is no way for you to figure out which MCAT test date would have a tougher scale. Worry about studying and take it when you are most ready, whichever month that may be.

If a particular administration of the exam has a tougher scale, it will be because the questions are easier, so it balances out.

OP, there's A) no difference because of what I said above, B) no way to know when easier version of the exam (with their tougher curves) are given, and C) no use in worrying about it. The exam is fair for everyone regardless of when you take it. Just study and do your best.

 

[Gauss44]

The Official Guide to the MCAT Exam by AAMC:

"It's a common but erroneous belief that the exam is graded on a curve. It isn't. In this chapter, we'll discuss the process of equating - a method testing experts use in standardized testing to ensure that scores are comparable across forms and test administrations - and the fact that you are measured against a previously established scale (and not against the group of examinees with whom you tested)." - All about MCAT Scores, p. 29.

 

[gettheleadout]

The Official Guide to the MCAT Exam by AAMC:

"It's a common but erroneous belief that the exam is graded on a curve. It isn't. In this chapter, we'll discuss the process of equating - a method testing experts use in standardized testing to ensure that scores are comparable across forms and test administrations - and the fact that you are measured against a previously established scale (and not against the group of examinees with whom you tested)." - All about MCAT Scores, p. 29.

Right, I read the same passage the other day. When I said "curve" in my post I'm referring to the scale which necessarily varies between versions of the test. My description is still accurate, but thanks for sourcing it. 👍