Is it wise to take an MCAT course? People have told me that I'd be at a 'disadvantage' if I didn't take a course, but I feel I can follow a strict schedule that some users here have created. Money is not a problem. What are your thoughts?
MCAT course
- Thread starter qwe7791
- Start date
- Joined
- Nov 12, 2009
- Messages
- 4,826
- Reaction score
- 2,712
If Money is not a problem, take a course.
However, if you like autonomy, buy all the materials and do the SN2'ed program of self-study.
Either one works, really.
However, if you like autonomy, buy all the materials and do the SN2'ed program of self-study.
Either one works, really.
- Joined
- May 22, 2008
- Messages
- 17,394
- Reaction score
- 9,146
It depends on what you need and your understanding of the material going into your prep. IMO courses are more for people who need to be taught the material or don't have the discipline to come up with a schedule and stick to it. If you didn't do well in your pre-reqs or if you know you won't study if given the option, go with a course - at least that way you'll have to feel guilty about pissing away your money.
I didn't take a course and did well. However, I was also extremely disciplined and largely stuck to a syllabus I made (based loosely on S2Ned's schedule in the MCAT forum) to stay on track. I don't think everyone could do that, but you certainly won't be at a "disadvantage" by not taking a course.
I didn't take a course and did well. However, I was also extremely disciplined and largely stuck to a syllabus I made (based loosely on S2Ned's schedule in the MCAT forum) to stay on track. I don't think everyone could do that, but you certainly won't be at a "disadvantage" by not taking a course.
This. Money was an issue for me. That said, it definitely does not have to be a disadvantage if you do not take a course. If you are disciplined enough, sticking to your own study plan can be an advantage. I was able to focus my time in areas where it was needed, and it payed off in the end. Good luck.
- Joined
- Oct 15, 2011
- Messages
- 497
- Reaction score
- 86
I took a course and I thought it was worth it. Performed well on test day anyway.
I would say that if you can get access to a ton of computer questions w/ explanations + many full-length timed tests...for less money it will be just as good. I didn't really use the study tips they gave too much. The biggest thing was recognizing the topics that were repeatedly asked from test to test and you need a bunch of practice for this, not necessarily the course.
I would say that if you can get access to a ton of computer questions w/ explanations + many full-length timed tests...for less money it will be just as good. I didn't really use the study tips they gave too much. The biggest thing was recognizing the topics that were repeatedly asked from test to test and you need a bunch of practice for this, not necessarily the course.
- Joined
- Aug 19, 2008
- Messages
- 422
- Reaction score
- 77
I did fine without a course-and think I probably did better than I would have had I taken a course. I never learn well from listening and always do my best studying alone, so I knew that I wouldn't have benefited much from a course. If you're this type of learner and you stick to a strict schedule like SN2's, then you are not at all at a disadvantage.
This might be me asking too much, but can anyone link me sn2's thread please? Thanks!!
Also, thanks for clearing everything up. You don't know how many times my friends suggest I take a course. I personally think I study alone better and with the help of you guys, I should be fine!
Also, thanks for clearing everything up. You don't know how many times my friends suggest I take a course. I personally think I study alone better and with the help of you guys, I should be fine!
- Joined
- Feb 6, 2013
- Messages
- 1,278
- Reaction score
- 105
I am the same way. I signed up for an online course and would have saved a lot more money if I had just bought the study books and access to the practice MCATs. I ended up not using the class and just studying on my own.
- Joined
- Feb 6, 2013
- Messages
- 1,278
- Reaction score
- 105
- Joined
- Dec 1, 2011
- Messages
- 18,577
- Reaction score
- 57
- Joined
- Dec 1, 2011
- Messages
- 18,577
- Reaction score
- 57
If you mean next cycle (June 2014) then you're right, it doesn't matter what month you take it this year.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using SDN Mobile
- Joined
- Aug 9, 2010
- Messages
- 266
- Reaction score
- 1
.
Last edited:
To be honest the courses were not good in terms of learning. Kaplan course has a "system" that they teach all the kids to follow. In terms of learning I find that self study and learning in a classroom setting is about the same if you discipline yourself. The only thing that is good about a course is the materials provided to you. Courses are good for those who can't schedule themselves to properly study.
- Joined
- Dec 1, 2011
- Messages
- 18,577
- Reaction score
- 57
