MCAT Advice

[tbachi]

I recently found out that the 2001 April MCAT is scheduled for April 21st. I am in a wedding that day so therefore I have to wait until August (just before I start my senior year) to take the exam. Will this hurt my chances of being interviewed if my applications are not complete until they recieve the scores? I have heard that it is better to wait until next August to take the test after I have had all the pre-med classes. As of now I am only lacking one biology lab and the second semester of physics. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

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Bachi

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[RKK]

The biology lab may not be such a big deal, but I personally think that the second part of physics (provided it is taught well) is VERY helpful for the MCAT, especially if you decide not to take review classes.

 

[Snoopy]

My personal experience was that taking the August MCAT was not detrimental. I waited because I was taking physics that summer, and actually felt I needed more time before the exam because there was still a week of physics left AFTER the MCAT. The more physics I could have taken the better off I would have been (physical sciences was my weakest area). My scores did not come until mid-October but I got some secondaries before the scores came out and the rest shortly afterward. I had two interviews in November, two in December, one in January, and one in February. I got my first acceptance December 5. All-in-all I had six interviews, four acceptances, and two wait-lists with four rejects/no interview. I would say I was a solid candidate--I had good stats and experiences--but nothing totally amazing. I probably would have gotten a few more interviews and perhaps an earlier acceptance, but overall I don't think it made a difference. The only instance in which waiting until August might make a difference is if you are a borderline candidate. By October/November all the applications are in and it is harder for an average candidate to stand out, even if the applicant has something unique. If, however, you have a solid application you should be just fine. Plus, think of all that extra time you'll have to study so you can ACE the exam. Hope that helps.

 

[tbachi]

Snoopy,
What do you consider as a solid candidate? Right now I have a 3.75 GPA, was accepted into a competitive internship on campus last semester, volunteer, very active on campus, council member of my sorority, planning to start research next spring... etc

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Bachi

 

[WishUponAStar]

Whoa baby,

Are you single too? Hubba Hubba.
I'm teasing (sorta), but from what I can see you have a very competitive background. If only you had a picture...

Take Care,
W.

Originally posted by tbachi:
Snoopy,
What do you consider as a solid candidate? Right now I have a 3.75 GPA, was accepted into a competitive internship on campus last semester, volunteer, very active on campus, council member of my sorority, planning to start research next spring... etc

 

[Snoopy]

Yes, you sound like a strong candidate. An MCAT score of >30 should confirm that, no matter when you take it. I sent you an email to the address listed in your profile which gives a more personal answer to your questions.