Minimum MCAT for Top Programs

[Shirafune]

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I'm just curious what the top programs have in mind as "minimum" MCAT scores to "guarantee" an interview, provided that you have a strong GPA, strong research, and the other standard extracurriculars. And perhaps somebody could give me an estimate about the weight of the MCAT at different score brackets.

As an incoming third year, I'm pretty certain I want to pursue an MD/PhD (not 100%, but close) and want to keep all my options open.

 

[StIGMA]

There is no minimum MCAT score that would guarantee an interview. Read the FAQ on this board for a general guideline of scores. 36+ is a good target (meaning this score won't deny you anywhere and scores above this have diminishing returns). Research experience (type, duration, quality, and how "good" you are as estimated primarily from LoRs) is the most important factor for MD/PhD candidates.

Why would you prepare differently for the MCAT assuming you would apply MD instead?

 

[Shirafune]

There is no minimum MCAT score that would guarantee an interview. Read the FAQ on this board for a general guideline of scores. 36+ is a good target (meaning this score won't deny you anywhere and scores above this have diminishing returns). Research experience (type, duration, quality, and how "good" you are as estimated primarily from LoRs) is the most important factor for MD/PhD candidates.

Why would you prepare differently for the MCAT assuming you would apply MD instead?

Thanks for the reply.

I am actually taking my MCAT tomorrow and have been consistently scoring 37, with my most recent AAMC yielding a 39. I just want to plan out my extracurriculars more carefully if it meant I at least had a shot at the top programs.

 

[StIGMA]

Thanks for the reply.

I am actually taking my MCAT tomorrow and have been consistently scoring 37, with my most recent AAMC yielding a 39. I just want to plan out my extracurriculars more carefully if it meant I at least had a shot at the top programs.

Get some sleep and trust your preparation! Good luck on the test.

 

[Shirafune]

Get some sleep and trust your preparation! Good luck on the test.

So...things did not go as expected on the real test. I am not sure where I stand, but say I end up with a 34 (13/8/13) or 33 (13/8/12) as worst case scenarios. What kind of programs will I be hard pressed to find an interview at? I realize that the average MCAT for matriculants was ~34 last year (at least I think so).

Thanks again!

 

[StIGMA]

So...things did not go as expected on the real test. I am not sure where I stand, but say I end up with a 34 (13/8/13) or 33 (13/8/12) as worst case scenarios. What kind of programs will I be hard pressed to find an interview at? I realize that the average MCAT for matriculants was ~34 last year (at least I think so).

Thanks again!

Assuming your application is otherwise pristine, you would still be considered at most MSTP's. Interviews will be hit or miss at top-20 programs (you will get some and not others, and you won't be able to find any rationale why one program offered and the other didn't). You will need to apply to many additional programs (~20-25 programs) if you are only focused on the top programs, such as 15-20 programs in the ~top25 and 5-10 programs outside of this. You could still receive interviews at top10 programs. You need to realize that you will receive excellent training at any MSTP, so not getting into a top10 program shouldn't be a primary factor in whether you want to pursue MD/PhD or not. Medical training is basically equivalent at any school and can get you into any residency, and there are top-notch PI's at any MSTP.

 

[tr]

I don't really think the MCAT is a make-or-break as long as you hit the 33-34 mark (less than that may be a handicap, more than that starts to become less relevant vs other factors). Also I wouldn't even bother worrying about it until you get your actual scores back. I don't think it's possible to guess your score with any accuracy based on how you felt about the test.

That said, once you *do* get your scores back, if you really have an 8 on the PS section I would think hard about a retake. A 33 with triple 11s would be perfectly fine but an 8 on the PS makes you look like a quantophobe, which could be a red flag for programs intended to train scientists.

 

[Shirafune]

I don't really think the MCAT is a make-or-break as long as you hit the 33-34 mark (less than that may be a handicap, more than that starts to become less relevant vs other factors). Also I wouldn't even bother worrying about it until you get your actual scores back. I don't think it's possible to guess your score with any accuracy based on how you felt about the test.

That said, once you *do* get your scores back, if you really have an 8 on the PS section I would think hard about a retake. A 33 with triple 11s would be perfectly fine but an 8 on the PS makes you look like a quantophobe, which could be a red flag for programs intended to train scientists.

eek! I think I have been using the wrong format to post MCAT scores this whole time. 😳

On practice tests, I have been very consistent in PS (13 - 14) and BS (13 - 14). Verbal has been a consistent 10. I feel like I tanked verbal this time, which is why I am so scared.

Thanks for the info. 😛
I will just look forward to starting classes in the Fall and wait out this month patiently and calmly.

 

[catzzz88]

eek! I think I have been using the wrong format to post MCAT scores this whole time. 😳

On practice tests, I have been very consistent in PS (13 - 14) and BS (13 - 14). Verbal has been a consistent 10. I feel like I tanked verbal this time, which is why I am so scared.

Thanks for the info. 😛
I will just look forward to starting classes in the Fall and wait out this month patiently and calmly.

Remember that the harder the section feels, the easier the grade will show. I would be more worried about low grades in sections that felt "easy" because the curve gets squished.

This is speculation, of course, but if you want some more anecdotal evidence go through some of the MCAT specific date boards and read impressions + outcomes.

You really shouldn't be freaking out about a "difficult" section. Expect your average!

 

[Shirafune]

If anybody wants to pitch in on my situation now...

Scores came back and I ended up with my worst case scenario 14PS/8VR/11BS. PS was better than anticipated and BS was worse. Never scored an 11, not even on my very first practice test. Not surprised with verbal though.

I'm planning to retake 10/25, but have gotten conflicting advice. I've signed up for the test already so the best I can do is to review whatever I can and cram in verbal. I am leaning toward 80% just canceling no matter what and 20% having it scored if I am super confident. I'm worried that my 8VR will just keep me out of any program, despite a good undergraduate research experience. If it's anything, I'm an Asian Male, resident of California, and hoping to stay here. c/sGPA of 3.95/3.99.

I have taken many history courses, among others, that have demonstrated a high proficiency in critical analysis and writing. Not sure if that can make up for a **** VR score, but that's all I can hope for right now. Similarly, will good biology grades (a few A+ here and there, rest As) rescue a seemingly lackluster BS score? I go to a top UC, if that puts things into context. I am also planning to apply for the Goldwater scholarship and will have a very strong chance of being nominated by my institution, though winning is another story.

I'm really defeated, but it's really hard not to take high achieving friends' advice to retake.