Need Planning Advice

[TheNeuroGuy]

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Hey guys,

I just have a few questions on how to go about planning my application/mcat studying schedule.

I graduate in fall (December) 2010. I suppose I have 2 options. I can take the MCAT next summer and apply to start med school in the fall of 2011, or I can wait to take the MCAT, take a year off, and then apply.

I am going to be taking a very heavy course load the next two semesters, and I don't think I'll have time to study rigorously for the MCAT. How should I go about studying for it? Should I wait for summer next year to start studying or study during the school year? If i study it during the summer, will I have enough time to get my application in on time (I'd also preferably send it in early).

Next summer I also plan on doing research/volunteering, so I'll have to study around working 40+ hours a week. This summer I am also working, but I am also trying to study for the chemistry portion. Chemistry was my weakest subject in all the sciences so I figure even though I might not be taking the MCATs till next year, I'd rather have a good understanding of the concepts at least so that when I really try and study I won't be lost. Is this a bad idea/pointless? Any input would be appreciated! 🙂

 

[urrugby]

It sounds like you should wait until your year off to take the MCAT. If you can't devote 4+ hours/day over next summer to studying and taking practice MCATs (which sounds like the case), you risk a lower overall performace than if you stretched it out over a number of months. On top of that, you won't be able to get your completed application in "early" regardless of when in the summer you take the MCAT. Better to take your time, do well on the MCAT, and apply early in the following application cycle than rush the studying and practicing this coming summer (which won't get your application in early), and send in your primary without the MCAT, praying you scored well.