Need practical advice regarding when to apply

[Natalia]

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[Robizzle]

Hmm I know MCAT scores are good for 3 years, but I didn't know that they simply "disappeared" after 3 years.

Anyhow, I think that if you take it next May, and do very well, you will be fine. Your old grade will still be there, but with such a stronger new grade & maybe a short explanation during interviews you can get away with it.

 

[deleted127837]

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[Law2Doc]

Hmm I know MCAT scores are good for 3 years, but I didn't know that they simply "disappeared" after 3 years.

Agree. The MCAT is only valid for 3 years but med schools you apply to will see every MCAT you ever took, whether valid or no longer valid.

 

[Natalia]

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[Natalia]

And whether you go to Harvard or Joe-Blo's (Certified) Backyard Med School Jamboree, you'll still get an MD and be a doctor.

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[kevster2001]

They're not going to disappear if you wait. Just blow out the next MCAT (35+) and the low 20s wont matter at all.

 

[Law2Doc]

From the 2007 MCAT Essentials pdf, found at the AAMC website, it reads:

"AMCAS automatically includes MCAT scores for examinees who sat for the exam in 2003 onward -- you do not have the option to withhold scores for exams taken in 2003 or later. Scores from 1991 to 2002 will be included only if you have released them to AMCAS."

So basically, I'm wondering when is possible for me to withhold scores....I know that they don't disappear, but I would like the option of not having to show them.

You don't have that option.

 

[Law2Doc]

I should clarify that I'm interested in a career in academic medicine, so I'd like to be at a top research school.

You need to walk before you can fly. Do well on the MCAT and THEN you can set your sites. Half of all applicants don't get into med school at all. Of the other half only a small fraction get into "top research schools".

 

[Natalia]

You don't have that option.

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[Natalia]

You need to walk before you can fly. Do well on the MCAT and THEN you can set your sites. Half of all applicants don't get into med school at all. Of the other half only a small fraction get into "top research schools".

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[Law2Doc]

I'm a bit confused...if 2002 scores are not released to AMCAS unless specifically requested...then wouldn't it follow that the same situation would hold true in 2 years for 2004 scores?

I don't believe so. I'm pretty sure that same 2002 cut off existed in prior cycles as well (i.e. it is not a moving target).

 

[Natalia]

I don't believe so. I'm pretty sure that same 2002 cut off existed in prior cycles as well (i.e. it is not a moving target).

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[Law2Doc]

I'll just call AAMC for clarification I suppose, but thank-you for your input.

TPR sums up the rule pretty nicely: http://www.princetonreview.com/medical/testprep/testprep.asp?TPRPAGE=139&TYPE=MCAT

 

[Law2Doc]

I'm sorry, but I am positive that top schools are well within my reach.

If you say so.🙄