Forum Members Official "Should I Retake?" Thread

[QofQuimica]

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EDIT 12/21/18: This thread is being retired, as the majority of posts (>80 pages) pertain to the old MCAT that is no longer relevant to current applicants. You can find the current "Should I Retake" thread here: Forum Members - Should I Retake the MCAT?

For those of you who are trying to figure out whether you should re-take, this is the thread for you. Post your dilemma here if you want advice from other SDN folks. Please note that you should take the opinions you get from SDN as one source of advice; you would be wise to also consult your premed advisor before making this decision. Here is my personal advice for those considering whether to re-take:

Definitely DO retake:

-if you scored below a 24. Some allopathic schools will screen out students with scores lower than 24, which is about the mean score for all test-takers.
-if you had some kind of major problem during the test that affected your performance (ex. you started puking or running a 102 degree temperature)
-if you took the test without completing the four pre-reqs (one year each of biology, chemistry, physics, and organic) and/or without studying for it
-if you left large numbers of questions blank​

Definitely do NOT retake:

-if you scored a 30 or better, especially if all of your individual section scores were an 8 or better
-if your section subscores (the numerical ones) are all good, but you didn't perform well on the writing section (the letter score)

​

Gray area-it's not obvious what to do:

-if you scored 30+ but with one section below an 8
-if you had some minor nuisances (ex. a noisy test room) during the test and you're not sure if it affected your performance
-if you studied thoroughly for the test and you scored within the range of your practice exams, but your score is in the middle range (24-29)​

 

[smk9]

chickensandwich and GZA--

I took the practice tests really close together (nearly one every day) so I think burn-out played somewhat of a role. I had been studying for months, taking biochemistry and other hard classes. I'll admit, I did not have the sciences "down" as much as I would have liked. I'm going to do a brief content review, and then hammer practice passages, tests, and problems like there is no tomorrow to find my weaknesses.

I've had a month to chill out and clear my mind. I also have a lot of practice material I didn't use.

I still have AAMC #8 which I haven't done-- I will use that a gauge. I know it is one of the hardest tests, and if I don't pull a 33+ on it, I may reconsider taking the test.

I feel like 29 is a good base to build on, and I could easily add a point or two onto my sciences with a little more practice. Verbal is crap shoot but I've never scored lower than 8 on verbal (once), but my average is usually 10 or 11.

My Kaplan diagnostic was 17 (5PS/7VR/5BS) so I've made some decent progress. I just need to tweak my thought process and get the sciences down cold.

 

[student1799]

I know this may sound strange, but I'm seriously considering retaking the MCAT on August 5th, when I won't even know my score from the first time. (I just took it on Tuesday.) I wanted to get some advice as to whether I should do this.

The reason I'm worried is that I got a bad attack of nerves during the PS section, and consequently didn't finish the whole thing. (When time expired, I still had 8 or 9 questions to do.) Based on the scores I was getting on the AAMC practice exams (10's and 11's, with 41-43 questions right out of 52), I think the highest I could have scored was a 9. In fact, I think it's likely that I did get a 9, but there's a chance it could be lower--I just don't know. I got myself together for the later sections, and think I got 12's-13's on them, because that's what I was getting on the AAMC exams. So I'm guessing that I probably scored somewhere between a 33 and a 35. That total score would be OK with me, but I'm worried that the low PS score will hurt my chances at some of the more selective med schools.

Besides, I'm really relying on my MCAT score to bolster my admission chances. I'm a very non-trad student (45 years old, and left a 20-year Wall St. career to do this). I have a good BCPM (3.6, which is all from postbacc), but a super-low undergrad GPA because I had a severe case of depression in college. (When I average the undergrad with the postbacc, it only comes out to 3.0.) My adviser told me she thinks I'll get some leeway from the fact that my undergrad grades are almost 25 years old, but I've also been told that my MCAT score will count for a lot in proving to med schools that I can handle the work. So that's why I'm so anxious about blowing the PS section.

I emailed my adviser about this today, and she said that IF I think my hunch about the score is right, I should retake. I've scoured the threads here, and I know that people who get over a 30 are usually told not to retake, but I think I'm a bit of an unusual case. So would it be worth the risk of taking the MCAT again? And assuming my score DOES go up a bit, will delaying my application another month cost me more than a higher score would help me?

Thanks a lot for any advice.

 

[student1799]

I posted a query here a couple of days ago about whether I should retake the MCAT "blind," i.e. without knowing my score from the first time. I now withdraw that question, because I've realized it would be way too risky to do that.

I changed my test date to 8/15 (10 days later); although I'll lose 10 days in the application process, at least I'll have a chance to change my mind if by some miracle I did OK the first time.

Sorry for the dumb first post, but the MCAT makes even rational people into idiots.

 

[sjdsn135]

I took the MCAT once and got a 32 S (14 PS, 7 VR, and 11 BS). I have a 4.0 GPA and average EC's. Would the 7 VR likely prevent me from getting interviews/acceptances at most schools? I am only applying to lower-tier MD schools and a few DO schools. Would a retake in August be advisable?

On Kaplan practice tests I was averaging about 13-15 PS, 13-15 BS, 8-9 VR. I'd appreciate any opinions...

 

[gorgi]

24R, 9V 7P 8B.... terribly average and its killing me. 3.65 gpa

should i retake? any / all help greatly appreciated

 

[Jen12282]

Should I retake?

Highest practice test score was
10 PS
10 VR
10 BS

Actual Test score
9 PS
10 VR
9 BS

Am applying to 30 schools and have a masters in biology.

 

[KitarP]

Hi,
I have a 3.97 overall GPA and the only science/math class I have less than an A in is Physics 2 which I got an A- in. I only have one other class which I got an A- in and that was speech.

I just got my MCAT score today and I have a 27Q.
The breakdown is:
P11 B9 V7

Should I retake? Or do I have a chance of making it in somewhere? I am a NYC resident btw.

 

[12six]

3.8 GPA (overall and science), bio major, writing minor, Extracurrics (teaching at a public school, varsity athletics, editor on school newspape, writing center tutor...), 130 hrs clinical exposure in an ER shadowing program, currently doing research this summer at Columbia, good letters of rec (so far a total of 10 letters)
Anyway... I just got a 28M on 6/13, breakdown of 8PS 10VR 10BS, which is significantly lower than i was doing on practices. my avgs were 10PS/11VR/11BS... ~32/33 total.
Anyone got any suggestions?
I'm signed up for 8/5 bc i was worried i didnt do so well on 6/13, but I'm a month out of practice now and i only have 3 weeks to get all geared up again.
Any tips appreciated. Thanks, all!

Oh, forgot to mention. I'm trying to get into good Allo schools.
Thanks.

 

[da8s0859q]

3.8 GPA (overall and science), bio major, writing minor, Extracurrics (teaching at a public school, varsity athletics, editor on school newspape, writing center tutor...), 130 hrs clinical exposure in an ER shadowing program, currently doing research this summer at Columbia, good letters of rec (so far a total of 10 letters)
Anyway... I just got a 28M on 6/13, breakdown of 8PS 10VR 10BS, which is significantly lower than i was doing on practices. my avgs were 10PS/11VR/11BS... ~32/33 total.
Anyone got any suggestions?
I'm signed up for 8/5 bc i was worried i didnt do so well on 6/13, but I'm a month out of practice now and i only have 3 weeks to get all geared up again.
Any tips appreciated. Thanks, all!

Oh, forgot to mention. I'm trying to get into good Allo schools.
Thanks.

No real tips, but know that you have other people doing the three-week crunch with you. It can be done. 👍

 

[12six]

Thanks for the support, Exi. I'm gonna tear PS apart on 8/5.
roar.

 

[sonshiine4]

I took June 13th test and scored a 26Q. 9 for both of the sciences and 8 on the verbal. My GPA is a 3.90. I could retake the test in August but am worried that this will be too late for some schools. Should I go ahead and start filling out secondaries and notify schools that I will be retaking the test?

 

[FSAP]

I got a 33 13 10 10 and that 10 on BS is really pissing me off. I was averaging 13 12 10 on the practice exams. Should I retake or just be happy with what I got? I feel like a ******* stressing about 2 points.

 

[Ramaz]

Hey guys,

My scores:

VR 7, PS 12, BS 13 32 P

That damn verbal.....do you guys think I have to retake it if I wanna get into IL MD school? Don't know whether I should be happy or angry.......
advice on how i should feel would be appreciated.

P.s. my science GPA is 4.0, overall is 3.63, got 6 months of volunteering and 1 year of research.

Thanx for your advice.

 

[shemani]

Just got my scores back:

VR - 8
PS - 11
BS - 10

GPA: 3.41

I don't know what my chances are for a GA medical school. I have steadily improved my grades since they dropped my sophomore year, and I have volunteer (non clinical) and research experience. Any advice is helpful and I would love it.

Thanks in advance!

 

[MidwestMedGurl]

So I am a first-time MCAT-er who took on 6/13. I didn't really have any feelings coming out of the test, it could have gone either way. The breakdown ended up being:

PS: 8
VR: 10
BS: 10
WS: R
GRAND TOTAL: 28R

I have a 3.94 GPA, great EC's, research experience, volunteer experience, and I have dedicated a ton of time to music ensembles in my undergrad career (hopefully rounding me out a bit). I feel like the MCAT is holding me back, and I didn't really have a lot of time up until the 13th to study, so I feel like an August test date could bode well for me. On the other hand, if I go DOWN in score I could be screwed. Any advice?

Oh, as an addendum, I'm not looking to get into anywhere special... I'm from WI so an in-state school or one close would be nice. The way I see it, the degree is the same in the end. I want to help people, not flaunt an Ivy League degree... 😉

Any advice would be helpful! I'm so lost!

 

[MadEvans]

AVERAGE SCORES (AAMC tests #'s)
VR: -10
PS: - 10
BS: - 10

6/13 MCAT OFFICIAL SCORE
2PM
VR: - 10
PS: - 8
BS: - 10
WS: - R

Also a first time MCATer. Unfortunately I will have to qualify my score for those who haven't heard me whine about my MCAT experience with a copy and paste. I do so because I got screwed and want to provide what I think is valuable information to those taking it in the future...

I had the weirdest (and possibly most fatal) issue taking the MCAT (First-timer). On the practice AAMC tests on e-mcat.com, they always say "question x/xx" on the bottom of the screen. However, on the real MCAT, when there is a passage it says "passage x/x" instead of saying the question numbers. So, since I was completely focused on the questions, at one point I glanced down and notice I was on passage 6 out of 7. I assumed I was on the second to last page based on this - without looking at the question number - so I took my time on this passage. By the time I went to the next page and finished all of the questions - thinking I was done - I clicked the next button only to be completely surprised by a whole additional passage that I had to guess on every one of the 8 questions (and three more questions that I didn't even have to guess on, on the next page)!

My question is... should I shoot to retake it in August to see if I can bump up my PS a few points or see what this score does for me this time around and aim for a retake in April of next year if I don't have any promising med school responses?

I am applying to Wake Forest EDP (my brother is there and only has great things to say about it) and will probably apply to my state school U of A this time around (possibly a few others) if Wake hates my MCAT score. Check my MDAPPS for more details.

Thanks for any help!

 

[Titan2600]

Hey guys. I just got my Scores back and I am in limbo wondering whether or not to retake. Maybe you guys can shead some light?

Composite 28Q

PS 9
VR 8
BS 11
WS Q

my cum gpa is a 3.61 with a sci gpa of 3.93, my ECs are strong as well. I am really worried about that 8. Can anyone give me some insight?

 

[MidwestMedGurl]

So... any advice for us 28-ers (i.e. the last 3 posts)? I think we could all use a little guidance. A sub-30 MCAT is scary, especially this year when everyone seems to be getting at least 31-32!

The thing is, I know I could be one of those 31-32 people (at least) if I buckled down and took an Aug MCAT... thus the importance of knowing whether I should retake! Any advice would be helpful, please! 😀

 

[Dr Lyss]

AVERAGE SCORES (AAMC tests #'s)
VR: -10
PS: - 10
BS: - 10

6/13 MCAT OFFICIAL SCORE
2PM
VR: - 10
PS: - 8
BS: - 10
WS: - R

Also a first time MCATer. Unfortunately I will have to qualify my score for those who haven't heard me whine about my MCAT experience with a copy and paste. I do so because I got screwed and want to provide what I think is valuable information to those taking it in the future...

I had the weirdest (and possibly most fatal) issue taking the MCAT (First-timer). On the practice AAMC tests on e-mcat.com, they always say "question x/xx" on the bottom of the screen. However, on the real MCAT, when there is a passage it says "passage x/x" instead of saying the question numbers. So, since I was completely focused on the questions, at one point I glanced down and notice I was on passage 6 out of 7. I assumed I was on the second to last page based on this - without looking at the question number - so I took my time on this passage. By the time I went to the next page and finished all of the questions - thinking I was done - I clicked the next button only to be completely surprised by a whole additional passage that I had to guess on every one of the 8 questions (and three more questions that I didn't even have to guess on, on the next page)!

My question is... should I shoot to retake it in August to see if I can bump up my PS a few points or see what this score does for me this time around and aim for a retake in April of next year if I don't have any promising med school responses?

I am applying to Wake Forest EDP (my brother is there and only has great things to say about it) and will probably apply to my state school U of A this time around (possibly a few others) if Wake hates my MCAT score. Check my MDAPPS for more details.

Thanks for any help!

I'm in a very similar boat. The exact same thing happened on my PS section. The only advice I can offer is to consider your other section scores as well. Since you were averaging a 10 in prac exams (and you achieved that - congrats!) do you think if you retook you could at least maintain those 10s? The only thing worse than having a less than satisfactory score is rushing into a retake and doing worse than you did before. Just food for thought...

 

[Dr Lyss]

...

 

[Dr Lyss]

So... any advice for us 28-ers (i.e. the last 3 posts)? I think we could all use a little guidance. A sub-30 MCAT is scary, especially this year when everyone seems to be getting at least 31-32!

The thing is, I know I could be one of those 31-32 people (at least) if I buckled down and took an Aug MCAT... thus the importance of knowing whether I should retake! Any advice would be helpful, please! 😀

I have talked to many a different Adcom and premed advisors about MCAT scores and almost all have come back with the same kind of comments. Consistency is more important than the actual number and the MCAT is not the end all of your application. The MCAT is a look into one day, a snapshot of your breadth of knowledge. Your GPA, on the other hand, is a better indicator because it took so many years for you to develop and is based on your performance overall. I'm not saying the MCAT isn't important but we sub-30 MCATers need to look at things in the larger picture. If you KNOW you can do better with an Aug MCAT and you feel prepared for it then consider a re-take as long as you know you can do better or maintain ALL of your scores, if you don't feel as confident then really consider your risks before you jump into a re-take. I hope this helped a bit

Oh and remember SDN is NOT a good representation of how people scored on the MCAT. The scores are always very high here for whatever reason and most people that didn't do so hot won't post so don't think everyone got over a 30. I know 10 people that took the 6/13 MCAT and few of us broke 30 even though they were getting prac scores well above 30

 

[whateva07]

I'm so disappointed with my score..THis is my 3rd time taking it, and I got 26O first time, 22M, and now a 26Q

I was scoring on practice tests
PS: 10-12 never below 10
VR: 8 -11 this varied
BS: 8-12 this also varied
Scoring bt 30-33 consistently on last many exams.

Real test - 8am
PS: 9 (really upset bc this was my strength)
VR: 7 (never scored lower than an 8 and I skipped one whole psg and had to guess on it, and on practice tests I usually finished)
BS: 10 (this is the only score I'm happy with)
WR: Q

I'm really disppointed, bc this time I was doing well on the practice tests and I ended up with the same score I took the first time. Does anyone know of schools that take the best sections, bc thats my only chance.

On first test:
PS 8
VR 10
BS 8

And I dont think I can retake the 4th time, and I'm afraid even though I did well on practice exams how am I going to do well on the real deal when I couldnt this time.

 

[Titan2600]

I have talked to many a different Adcom and premed advisors about MCAT scores and almost all have come back with the same kind of comments. Consistency is more important than the actual number and the MCAT is not the end all of your application. The MCAT is a look into one day, a snapshot of your breadth of knowledge. Your GPA, on the other hand, is a better indicator because it took so many years for you to develop and is based on your performance overall. I'm not saying the MCAT isn't important but we sub-30 MCATers need to look at things in the larger picture. If you KNOW you can do better with an Aug MCAT and you feel prepared for it then consider a re-take as long as you know you can do better or maintain ALL of your scores, if you don't feel as confident then really consider your risks before you jump into a re-take. I hope this helped a bit

Oh and remember SDN is NOT a good representation of how people scored on the MCAT. The scores are always very high here for whatever reason and most people that didn't do so hot won't post so don't think everyone got over a 30. I know 10 people that took the 6/13 MCAT and none of us broke 30 even though we were getting prac scores well above 30

Thanks for putting that into perspective. My mind was a mess after I saw my score, I was really hoping to break 30. But I realize now that a 28Q, although a low end score, isn't the only thing medical schools look at. I have to hope that my GPA and ECs help me out. Thanks for your help!

 

[brc2005]

Should I retake?

27Q

BS: 9
VR: 8
PS: 10

GPA: 3.97

 

[HeyGirlHey]

to all of you thinking of retaking, im totally with you. i scored 10/10/10/S which in the big picture is a decent score... but i was expecting more from verbal and bio. i was scoring 34s on practices tests and was just absolutely crushed when i got my scores bc i feel as if im in no-mans land. below a 30 i would def retake, 32 or above id be comfortable... but a 30?!!! 😡

so this is my reasoning post cry-fest...

even if i were to retake (i registered for aug. 15th a few weeks ago)... i risk scoring worse or not that much better. even if i got a 32, its not that much of an improvement. plus, my apps wont be reviewed until sept., and from what i hear theyre already setting up interviews by then... and with a mediocre mcat, i feel applying early is more advantageous than more MCAT points. ive got a 3.7 overall, and 3.55 BCPM... so im your definition of average... ive got good ECs... so, is this the right logic? ughhhh this is so stressful!!

 

[javablackrex]

.

 

[HeyGirlHey]

yeah, if time isnt a factor then consider retaking. that 6 in verbal might not be so hot. verbal is such a crapshoot, so just make sure you nail it next time! and just keep reviewing your sciences and go in with the confidence that youve done this all before. gluck!

 

[sjdsn135]

I'm so disappointed with my score..THis is my 3rd time taking it, and I got 26O first time, 22M, and now a 26Q

I was scoring on practice tests
PS: 10-12 never below 10
VR: 8 -11 this varied
BS: 8-12 this also varied
Scoring bt 30-33 consistently on last many exams.

Real test - 8am
PS: 9 (really upset bc this was my strength)
VR: 7 (never scored lower than an 8 and I skipped one whole psg and had to guess on it, and on practice tests I usually finished)
BS: 10 (this is the only score I'm happy with)
WR: Q

I'm really disppointed, bc this time I was doing well on the practice tests and I ended up with the same score I took the first time. Does anyone know of schools that take the best sections, bc thats my only chance.

On first test:
PS 8
VR 10
BS 8

And I dont think I can retake the 4th time, and I'm afraid even though I did well on practice exams how am I going to do well on the real deal when I couldnt this time.

I know there are a few schools that take the best score in each section, one of which I am 99% sure is George Washington. I called one of their office people a few weeks ago and they said they take the highest score in each section (but do look at all your scores). She said that as the assistant her job is to make a cover sheet with only the key numbers, including GPA and MCAT total along the top for quick sorting. Apparently the MCAT she writes along the top is a combo of your best scores. I could be mistaking them with another school, so you should call them to confirm. Also just call around and you're sure to find a few schools with this practice.

 

[Dr Lyss]

I know there are a few schools that take the best score in each section, one of which I am 99% sure is George Washington. I called one of their office people a few weeks ago and they said they take the highest score in each section (but do look at all your scores). She said that as the assistant her job is to make a cover sheet with only the key numbers, including GPA and MCAT total along the top for quick sorting. Apparently the MCAT she writes along the top is a combo of your best scores. I could be mistaking them with another school, so you should call them to confirm. Also just call around and you're sure to find a few schools with this practice.

The MSAR also makes a note for schools that take the highest in each section so check that out

 

[fuzzywuz]

Hey all,

Here are the stats-

3.65 cGPA, 3.5sGPA, the usual ECs, good letters from people who know well (Note: I graduated in May, so GPA is finalized)

June13th MCAT- 30S (12P-8V-10B)

I've been averaging 30 throughout my preparation. The highest I ever got on a mock test (AAMC) is a 31. Anyway, I'm satisfied with my score. But I know with my GPA and semi-acceptable score, I'm not that much of a "standout" applicant. Anyway, I'm done with primary, will be submitting tonight. I signed up for August 15th as a backup immediately after Jun 13th.

My dilemma is...should I retake. Here is my plan and I wanna know what you guys think:

I will take my 30 and what I have now and apply broadly. I want to land somewhere in the east coast. I am a NY resident. My list includes ALL NY schools and a lot of schools in the bordering states. My feeling is..from now till Aug, I won't be able to improve that much. Considering the fact that 30 was my average over my prep period, I'd need a lot of time and work to really improve and July to August simply isn't enough time. If I fail to get in somewhere, I will retake during the year and reapply next year.

What do you all think?

Thanks!

 

[GZA]

Hey all,

Here are the stats-

3.65 cGPA, 3.5sGPA, the usual ECs, good letters from people who know well (Note: I graduated in May, so GPA is finalized)

June13th MCAT- 30S (12P-8V-10B)

I've been averaging 30 throughout my preparation. The highest I ever got on a mock test (AAMC) is a 31. Anyway, I'm satisfied with my score. But I know with my GPA and semi-acceptable score, I'm not that much of a "standout" applicant. Anyway, I'm done with primary, will be submitting tonight. I signed up for August 15th as a backup immediately after Jun 13th.

My dilemma is...should I retake. Here is my plan and I wanna know what you guys think:

I will take my 30 and what I have now and apply broadly. I want to land somewhere in the east coast. I am a NY resident. My list includes ALL NY schools and a lot of schools in the bordering states. My feeling is..from now till Aug, I won't be able to improve that much. Considering the fact that 30 was my average over my prep period, I'd need a lot of time and work to really improve and July to August simply isn't enough time. If I fail to get in somewhere, I will retake during the year and reapply next year.

What do you all think?

Thanks!

Don't know how much progress you can make in a month of study. If you scored at your average an increase would mostly depend on luck, which can also go in the opposite direction. Your score and gpa are both average at many medical schools.

 

[GZA]

30-N

PS-12
VR- 6 😕😡🙁
BS- 12

I almost voided my score due to the VR, and probably should have. Worst score I've ever gotten in verbal... including my diagnostic!! I was getting consistent 9-12s and then blew it on test day due to a few tricky passages and nerves causing me to run out of time. Definitely test day jitters and the frustration that comes along with people typing loudly next to me and uncomfortable headphones.

A 6 makes me look illiterate. Am I out of line in wanting to retake it? I'm not applying this year, so time is not a factor. I just don't want my science scores to drop, although 12 was about my average for both sciences...

I will be graduating from the University of Virginia a Distinguished Neuroscience Major, 2+ years of research for which I will be published (2nd author), shadowing, ER volunteer, national society of collegiate scholars, years and years of global health work primarily in Haiti...

GPA: 3.7
Science GPA: closer to 3.9

Thoughts?

I would retake here.

 

[Ramaz]

Sorry for reposting guys, but I really wanna know your opinion:


My scores:

VR 7, PS 12, BS 13 32 P

That damn verbal.....do you guys think I have to retake it if I wanna get into IL MD school? Don't know whether I should be happy or angry.......
advice on how i should feel would be appreciated.

P.s. my science GPA is 4.0, overall is 3.63, got 6 months of volunteering and 1 year of research.

Thanx for your advice.

 

[crazynative]

Hey guys,

First time poster here. First off I really want to thank all of you for taking the time to give us anxious pre meds some advice on whether we should retake it or not. I really appreciate it.

So having said that, here's what I got on my MCAT:

12 PS
8 VR
10 BS

WR: M

It's obvious that English is not my strong point, and I would have to work hard on it, should I retake it. The reason why I am considering not retaking it is because I have finished all the passages I have (EK 101). Any advice on this score? I have a 3.75 GPA in Biomedical Engineering and have worked in 4 different labs. Would really appreciate any advice.

 

[whateva07]

The MSAR also makes a note for schools that take the highest in each section so check that out

I have the 2006 MSAR is it that in a later version???

Is there anywhere online like Us News or some site that may have this information bc I couldnt seem to find anything?

and by the way thanks sj and qtl for your support, I'm glad that there are ppl like you guys on here wanting to help out others!

 

[BeastyM]

I have MCAT of V8 P11 B12 WT so 31T

GPA of about 3.85 regular and about 3.7 science.

Extracurriculars are wide spread out (volunteering, shadowing, business, research, etc.)

What are my chances n should I retake? I was getting 36-38 on prac aamc test

 

[PsxDcSquall]

Hey this is more of a when should I retake rather than a should I retake

I scored a 26 R on my first attempt (June 13th) with 10 Bio 10 Verbal 6 PS

I am thinking either September 5th or January 2009 (I plan to apply next cycle). I would just take it in January but

1) I dont want the MCAT over my head any more...honestly I would be happy with a 28-29 on this test (I think I have a shot at my state school with that score, plus I plan to apply the first day for the next cycle broadly to both DO and MD schools) GPA is about 3.9 for both overall and science plus I have athletics (4 years of cross country 2 of track), research, and I worked in a cadaver lab for a semester...My biggest weakness other than the MCAT is my lack of clinical experience but I am filling out forms to volunteer at a hospital and I'm going to see what happens from there.

2) I know I will start off the semester studying a lot then when the semester really gets going I will start to slack a bit...and I wont really get back into it until mid december when the semester lets out.

I know I can do better on PS I was getting around 8-11 on the practice tests (usually around an 8 or 9) but I also don't want to rush into this and screw it up....Help would be very much appreciated!

 

[mandalan]

Hi all,

I did "ok" (what my pre-med advisor said) on my MCAT.

12 - PS
07 - VR😡
11 - BS
Q - WS

I have a 3.65 GPA at the Albany College of Pharmacy (not a PharmD student, but doing my pre-med at a pharmacy school).

I was wondering what your collective opinions are?

Thanks much everyone!

 

[Ramaz]

Hi all,

I did "ok" (what my pre-med advisor said) on my MCAT.

12 - PS
07 - VR😡
11 - BS
Q - WS

I have a 3.65 GPA at the Albany College of Pharmacy (not a PharmD student, but doing my pre-med at a pharmacy school).

I was wondering what your collective opinions are?

Thanks much everyone!

Hey man, seems like this site is pretty dead in getting an advice, so i guess we gotta advice each other then 🙂

I got that painful 7 in verbal too but I got 12 on PS and 13 on BS (32P)....and I am getting mixed opinions about my score. It is genereally agreed however, that 7 in verbal might get in the way. I am applying, however, and will retake it next year if I don't get in. It also depends on the rest of your application, if it's good, I would apply if I were you.....although it depends on your state. I live in IL and 32 seems to be ok. Actually I was given an advice to apply and tell adcoms i would retake MCAT in september...

 

[Libtech]

Should I retake?

27Q

BS: 9
VR: 8
PS: 10

GPA: 3.97

I retook my 27O from last year. It was worth it but then again I don't have your stellar GPA 😱.

If you have the time, I would retake it. Sounds like you just had a mediocre day looking at your grades.

 

[Nell]

I got a 31P, first time. PS: 9 / VR: 11 / BS: 11.

My GPA is 3.83 (would be 3.9 without first semester which was a 3.49 - health problems) EC's are pretty good. I have done clinical research, regular research, 1 summer of volunteering, 3 summers of work at cardiologists office, and 2 leadership positions at school.

My practice tests were 32, 35, 35, 35, 33. Also, I haven't taken physics 2 yet so I tried to teach myself all of that which I thought was going just fine. I know it says not to retake if you get above a 30 but I was sleep deprived on the real day and I just think I could do better. Plus, my top choice schools are all UCs because they are cheap and close to home: UCSD, UCSF, UCLA, UCI (I'm a CA resident) and I just don't think 31 is good enough for those. My advisor hasn't returned my calls for over a week so I have signed up for the Aug 15th test at 2pm just in case. I'm not a morning person so I really think the different time of day will be a big help.

Any opinions?

 

[TNFR]

got an 8 in verbal, 13 in biological, 14 in physical.

would the 8 in verbal get me rejected from nyu, cornell, georgetown, brown and the like?

 

[SourPatches00]

Should I retake?

Highest practice test score was
14 PS
12 VR
15 BS
Total - 41

Average practice test score was
14 PS
10 VR
14 BS
Total - 38

Lowest practice test score was
12 PS
7 VR
12 BS
Total - 31

Diagnostic score was
10 PS
7 VR
9 BS
Total - 26

Actual test score (1st time) was
11 PS
6 VR
9 BS
Total - 26M

Actual test score (2nd time) was
10 PS
8 VR
11 BS
Total - 29M
---------------------------------------------------------
After preparing for the MCAT for ONE YEAR (6 months the first time and 6 months the second time), I felt confident that I was going to score 30+ on my exam. I did not feel that I was weak in any area and I was consistently getting perfect or near perfect science scores while I was also focused throughout the real test. What I am afraid of most is if I take the test again, I would not know what I would change differently (as I have completed almost every possible source out there) and I am afraid I will get a point lower on the VR and wont be admitted to any US MD school. I averaged 10s on my VR but there were a few infrequent 7s that sometime appears. I also got a 6 on VR the first time I took the MCAT and I did not receive a 6 once after my first diagnostic score (over a year ago). I would not want this to reoccur.

The MCAT is the only thing that is preventing me from going to med school and I'm starting to lose hope. It is one thing to fail when your not trying, but its the worse when you know that you tried your best. I just don't understand this exam... I felt that I did well in each administrated test and I felt confident that I was going to receive nearly a 36, but I always come out disappointed. After receiving my first score, I was clinically depressed for a very long time (which I kept to myself). After the second score, I was more relieved than sad because I felt that a 29 was just about good enough to gain an acceptance to A med school, so I thought I wouldnt need to take it again. However, I am being told that many people have not been accepted with a 29 and similar stats as I have. Now I don't know what to do.

Plus the stress of my friends and family thinking I would score 36+ and am finished with the MCAT does not help. If I would need to retake, it would have to be in secrecy. I still remember all my information and I knew my content even before I started, but I don't think I am strong enough to handle another disappointment or at least not until I have some time. I don't mind putting in another year, reapplying, or going to school in a state I don't want, I just want to become a physician and I don't think I can handle failing this test again.

 

[Dr Lyss]

Should I retake?

Highest practice test score was
14 PS
12 VR
15 BS
Total - 41

Average practice test score was
14 PS
10 VR
14 BS
Total - 38

Lowest practice test score was
12 PS
7 VR
12 BS
Total - 31

Diagnostic score was
10 PS
7 VR
9 BS
Total - 26

Actual test score (1st time) was
11 PS
6 VR
9 BS
Total - 26M

Actual test score (2nd time) was
10 PS
8 VR
11 BS
Total - 29M
---------------------------------------------------------
After preparing for the MCAT for ONE YEAR (6 months the first time and 6 months the second time), I felt confident that I was going to score 30+ on my exam. I did not feel that I was weak in any area and I was consistently getting perfect or near perfect science scores while I was also focused throughout the real test. What I am afraid of most is if I take the test again, I would not know what I would change differently (as I have completed almost every possible source out there) and I am afraid I will get a point lower on the VR and wont be admitted to any US MD school. I averaged 10s on my VR but there were a few infrequent 7s that sometime appears. I also got a 6 on VR the first time I took the MCAT and I did not receive a 6 once after my first diagnostic score (over a year ago). I would not want this to reoccur.

The MCAT is the only thing that is preventing me from going to med school and I'm starting to lose hope. It is one thing to fail when your not trying, but its the worse when you know that you tried your best. I just don't understand this exam... I felt that I did well in each administrated test and I felt confident that I was going to receive nearly a 36, but I always come out disappointed. After receiving my first score, I was clinically depressed for a very long time (which I kept to myself). After the second score, I was more relieved than sad because I felt that a 29 was just about good enough to gain an acceptance to A med school, so I thought I wouldnt need to take it again. However, I am being told that many people have not been accepted with a 29 and similar stats as I have. Now I don't know what to do.

Plus the stress of my friends and family thinking I would score 36+ and am finished with the MCAT does not help. If I would need to retake, it would have to be in secrecy. I still remember all my information and I knew my content even before I started, but I don't think I am strong enough to handle another disappointment or at least not until I have some time. I don't mind putting in another year, reapplying, or going to school in a state I don't want, I just want to become a physician and I don't think I can handle failing this test again.

I can understand how that can be disappointing considering your impressive prac scores, but at the end of the day a 29 is nothing to sneeze at. It's not what you were hoping for, granted, but if your goal is to get into medical school, any medical school as you implied, than you definitely have are still in the game with a 29. At the end of the day you have to do what you feel comfortable with and if you are really dead set on getting above a 35 or something like that than you won't be happy until you do that... but if your sights are set on med school than I think you should take what you got and work with it. In the big picture of things its a great score and you shouldn't have a problem. Yes, some people haven't been accepted with a 29, but also some people have & some people have been accepted with lower. Your MCAT is not the end all of your application and if everything else is in order you should be fine. good luck

 

[bobertfrat]

30P

7 VR
12 BS
11 PS

3.75 GPA with 3.74 science GPA. EC are excellent and I noticed that almost none of the schools listed on the MSAR accept students with less than an 8 or 9 on verbal.

 

[Chemist0157]

30P

7 VR
12 BS
11 PS

3.75 GPA with 3.74 science GPA. EC are excellent and I noticed that almost none of the schools listed on the MSAR accept students with less than an 8 or 9 on verbal.

Schools are sticklers for wanting subscores to all be above 8. Unless you feel like a 7 in VR is the best you can do, you should take it again. Your other two scores look great so if you afford to take it one more time to bump that VR up, you'd be in great shape.

 

[omelette1230]

I was just thinking about this whole retaking process and would like input. why is it really that schools would hold it against you to take it multiple times? obviously the mcat is a money making machine in our capitalist society and the schools buy into the system. along these lines, if youre willing to pay the money to take the exam, how can they hold it against you? its just more money for them to steal. additionally, does it really matter if someone gets a 30+ on the first try compared to someone who gets it on the third? ultimately, at that point in time youve demonstrated an understanding of the material (in the mcat sense). The exam is also different everytime you take it so i dont think you get any advantage from having taken it before. The system seems to be a contradiction. I think people who take the GRE can take it as many times as they want.

 

[RHC1987]

im definately a grey area person! help plz!

should i retake??
my score is a 29Q
7 verbal
11 bio
11 physical

im wondering if my verbal score can be offset by the fact that im an English major at school with an A average in my concentration... (don't point out the obvious irony of my 7 to begin with hah)

 

[mandalan]

Hey man, seems like this site is pretty dead in getting an advice, so i guess we gotta advice each other then 🙂

I got that painful 7 in verbal too but I got 12 on PS and 13 on BS (32P)....and I am getting mixed opinions about my score. It is genereally agreed however, that 7 in verbal might get in the way. I am applying, however, and will retake it next year if I don't get in. It also depends on the rest of your application, if it's good, I would apply if I were you.....although it depends on your state. I live in IL and 32 seems to be ok. Actually I was given an advice to apply and tell adcoms i would retake MCAT in september...

Hey man, thanks for the advice. I went and had lunch with my Pre-Med advisor (he is an Albany Medical College grad). The 7 may hurt us both..but undoubtedly some schools will "give us interviews." I guess he's saying that I'm competitive (which means you are as well).

I don't know what its like in the midwest, but I know the east coast is teeming with potential. Thanks for the help!

 

[jj85]

I'm also a member of the 29 club. It freaking sucks. Everyone told me that you need at least a 30 so I'm retaking it in a couple of weeks. My numbers were more even though, P11 V8 B10. Still, verbal sucks.