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)​

 

[kitanai]

first mcat score: PS 10 V7 BS 11 -28N
2nd mcat score: PS 13 V7 BS 12- 32P
most recent mcat: PS 11 V8 BS 10- 29N

GPA=3.5
Masters = 3.6
I got one interview from my state school when I applied with my first mcat score (I only applied to 3 schools). What do you think adcom will think about my apps? Is it fine that atleast I have a verbal of 8 now? I have lots of clinical experience (I am a medical technologist and I am doing a lot of phlebotomy) I am currently a research tech in a reputable lab. Did alot of shadowing for 5 months with 9 different doctors.

 

[WashMe]

first mcat score: PS 10 V7 BS 11 -28N
2nd mcat score: PS 13 V7 BS 12- 32P
most recent mcat: PS 11 V8 BS 10- 29N

GPA=3.5
Masters = 3.6
I got one interview from my state school when I applied with my first mcat score (I only applied to 3 schools). What do you think adcom will think about my apps? Is it fine that atleast I have a verbal of 8 now? I have lots of clinical experience (I am a medical technologist and I am doing a lot of phlebotomy) I am currently a research tech in a reputable lab. Did alot of shadowing for 5 months with 9 different doctors.

It may look quite bad that you dropped 4 points in the sciences... that's a huge drop. What do you think happened? Why did you retake after the 2nd test? Just being honest, but I think that going from 7->8 in verbal is only worth it if you stay about the same in the sciences.

 

[georgiagirl62]

I fall into the not so fabulous gray area....

My scores is 29O
9PS/10VR/10BS

My overall GPA is 3.69 and my science GPA is 3.65.

I plan on applying to GA state schools. I have worked part-time since my freshman year, I have 100 hours of volunteer experience and will have atleast 50 hours of shadowing experience by the end of the summer. I am a mentor in the American Medical Student Association, and I volunteer in AWANA at the church I attend in Athens.

Should I plan on retaking the MCAT? I scored almost the exact same as with the AAMC tests I used to practice so I am wondering if it would be worth taking it again.

Any advice is appreciated! 🙂

 

[kitanai]

It may look quite bad that you dropped 4 points in the sciences... that's a huge drop. What do you think happened? Why did you retake after the 2nd test? Just being honest, but I think that going from 7->8 in verbal is only worth it if you stay about the same in the sciences.

To be honest, I retooked a 32P because of the verbal section was a 7, but sure I am quite happy that at least I got an 8 the third try.

Dropping 4 points in the sciences might have stemmed from studying too much verbal that my strategy of not thinking outside the box (not doing creative thinking) for the verbal might have been subconsciously applied to the science sections. I cannot have two brains with different mindset. And english is a second language for me.

Is 29P still competitive? Do schools look at your recent scores when screening for secondary invites? What do you think I should do? Should I retake this again but then I am sure that I'll just get the same score distribution of 32P if tried to study again the science sections?

 

[kautionwirez]

Hi all,

Just looking for advice on a retake. Took first time 5/21/11 and scored 8, 11, Q, 12. I'm happy with the 31 overall, but a bit worried about the balance. I took all the AAMC practice tests and averaged 29 - 30, with a high of with a 33 on #11. But my PS scores were always low. I averaged 9 and only broke 10 once.

A little more about me: University of Michigan undergrad cGPA 3.67, sGPA 3.5, gGPA 3.9 getting MS in Biochem in December. Michigan resident. Lots of volunteering, good shadowing and work experiences. Should have decent letters.

Just want to know if the 8 in PS is a huge red flag and will get me screened out. Not applying to any tops, just the normal low/mids.

Any advice is appreciated

PS is the least important section, but a balanced score and 10 or above is satisfactory for most schools. I don't think it is a huge red flag, I would apply this cycle and maybe retake the exam if you are SURE u can have a balanced score and 3+ higher than your total.

Any advice?
9 PS 10 Bio 7 VR... SC resident (MD hopeful)

If you are applying next year, retake it. DO schools is your next option.

I just got my 5/26 score... 32Q (PS:12 VR:8 BS:12)
GPA is 3.88, double major in Chemistry and Biology
Lots of research, pretty good EC's, great LOR's
AAMC average was 36 (13/10/13)

I signed up to retake on August 12th but plan on submitting my app next week with this score. I'm worried the score will keep me out of MD/PhD since the averages are around 35 for any school... I am happy with my sciences but I'm just in disbelief at my low verbal score (never got below a 10 on practice).

So, do you think retaking the MCAT would be worth it if I increase, say to a 35 (which I think is really doable)?

Yes.

Hi, so I also just got my 5/26 MCAT score back today. Disappointed to say the least; hence why I'm on this thread!

PS: 10
VR: 9
W: M (omg, maybe I should have practiced haha)
BS: 10

I know that I did not give myself enough time to study for this, thought I would study during the spring semester, but did minimal at best. Mostly crammed for a couple of weeks after finals. (Granted I was fresh off of taking physics, so I considered that studying for the MCAT too 🙂)

Practice exams: AAMC 11: 12/11/11 = 34 (two days before real thing)
AAMC 10: 12/11/10 = 33
AAMC 9: 12/8/10 = 30
AAMC 3: 10/10/9 = 29
Avg: 11.5/10/10 = 31.5

I believe that I can do better than a 29, but am wondering if studying for ~1.5-2 months and retaking it end of August would be okay for this cycle or if I should just stick with my 29M. My GPA is good from my state school(~3.85) but my ECs are on the weaker side. WI resident.

I've considered applying to DO schools but haven't looked at that app yet. Filled out AMCAS but haven't submitted. Still tweaking the PS.

Anyways, this is lengthy enough. Thank you for any and all input.

August is a little late, 29 is respectable, M may raise flags for several schools. If you can get 3-4+ above your score, and you are very confident, then retaking it is a smart thing to do.

OK, looking for advice, I'm a pre-med Biology major in Texas, graduating UT Austin next spring. Here's my numbers:

Cumulative GPA: 3.63
Science GPA: 3.66
VR: 11
PS: 11
BS: 12
Writing: R
Total: 34R

I know this is a pretty good score and definitely competitive in Texas, GPA could be better but it's too late to improve it, it can only really go down from here. My ECs are pretty weak, and (not to brag) I barely really studied for this test, I crammed for like a week after finals. I only did so well because I'm a science major and I've always done fairly well at standardized tests. I procrastinated so hard on studying that I didn't even take any practice tests. So, while I know retaking with such a score often produces lower scores, if I really studied my ass off, I could probably bring it up even more. But is it worth it? Should I just focus on improving my ECs and PS etc, considering I will probably not apply this cycle anyway?

Only if you are confident you can do better. 34 is a great score, especially since your instate Texas. I would rather work on your EC's if I were you and get some great experience. MCAT studying takes a lot of time. I'm sure you been through what I been through.

Advice on a re-take:

VR: 9
BS: 9
PS: 9
27Q

Post-bacc, sGPA: 4.1, good experience (including clinical), great LOR's. Honestly I believe my application is very solid besides the MCAT score. I'd like to move forward with this cycle. Any thoughts/words of encouragement?

DO schools is within your range, if you can retake it soon and you believe/confident enough to get a 31+, then take it.

Hi everyone,
I am in need for some honest advice. I took the MCAT for the first time 5/20, my scores:
PS 10
BS 10
VR 8
Total: 28R
English is my second language so I'm hoping that it can buffer my verbal score a little bit. I already took all of the AAMC practice tests, so if I do retake, I have the TPR practice tests at my disposal. I also am planning on buying the EK Verbal to improve my verbal score.

I went to undergrad at Berkeley and really want to stay in CA for med school.
GPA: 3.8
sGPA: 3.7-3.8

I have lots of ECs, good LORs and clinical research experience. I am currently a clinical research coordinator at UCSF.

Your help is much appreciated!

Most UCs usually require a 30+ or above, I am applying with a 9VR but I believe my chances are lower than average. If you think you can do better, retake it soon as possible.

first mcat score: PS 10 V7 BS 11 -28N
2nd mcat score: PS 13 V7 BS 12- 32P
most recent mcat: PS 11 V8 BS 10- 29N

GPA=3.5
Masters = 3.6
I got one interview from my state school when I applied with my first mcat score (I only applied to 3 schools). What do you think adcom will think about my apps? Is it fine that atleast I have a verbal of 8 now? I have lots of clinical experience (I am a medical technologist and I am doing a lot of phlebotomy) I am currently a research tech in a reputable lab. Did alot of shadowing for 5 months with 9 different doctors.

You need to check schools on how they look at your MCAT scores. I don't know why you would retake a 32P if you had trouble in verbal. Apply broadly.

I fall into the not so fabulous gray area....

My scores is 29O
9PS/10VR/10BS

My overall GPA is 3.69 and my science GPA is 3.65.

I plan on applying to GA state schools. I have worked part-time since my freshman year, I have 100 hours of volunteer experience and will have atleast 50 hours of shadowing experience by the end of the summer. I am a mentor in the American Medical Student Association, and I volunteer in AWANA at the church I attend in Athens.

Should I plan on retaking the MCAT? I scored almost the exact same as with the AAMC tests I used to practice so I am wondering if it would be worth taking it again.

Any advice is appreciated! 🙂

Maybe. If you averaged a 29, your chances are getting the same score +/- 1-2 points. If you are confident you will do better by 3 points, I encourage you to retake it. But a 29 is a very respectable score. PS is the least important.

 

[ztang007]

Hi, I have a 3.98 GPA but scored a 30N (P10,V9,B11) on my MCAT. I have awesome recommendation letters, tons of research experience, and adequate amount of extracurriculars. I really want to get into a top 10 or top 20 medical school. Do you think I am still competitive with my current MCAT or should I retake it? I really need some advice as I don't know what to do.

 

[Brit10]

Hi All,

Question along the same lines of everyone else but just not sure what to do. I got a 29O (PS 10, VR 10, BS 9) on the MCAT in May but got higher on the practice AAMC exams, especially BS. I have a 3.5 science GPA, a PhD. and large amount of research experience (including publications in Nature Medicine etc), LOEs much clinical experience etc.

So, should I re-take and study more (I was working full time as well) or should I just apply to the medical schools and see what happens? I am not interested in DO school as I want to be able to work in the UK (I am a dual UK and US citizen) and from what I can tell it is not accepted in the UK.

If I should just apply, any schools I should focus on?

Thoughts!

 

[kautionwirez]

Hi, I have a 3.98 GPA but scored a 30N (P10,V9,B11) on my MCAT. I have awesome recommendation letters, tons of research experience, and adequate amount of extracurriculars. I really want to get into a top 10 or top 20 medical school. Do you think I am still competitive with my current MCAT or should I retake it? I really need some advice as I don't know what to do.

retake it in july and apply. you have a good chance in getting accepted to a school but your score is low for top tier schools.

Hi All,

Question along the same lines of everyone else but just not sure what to do. I got a 29O (PS 10, VR 10, BS 9) on the MCAT in May but got higher on the practice AAMC exams, especially BS. I have a 3.5 science GPA, a PhD. and large amount of research experience (including publications in Nature Medicine etc), LOEs much clinical experience etc.

So, should I re-take and study more (I was working full time as well) or should I just apply to the medical schools and see what happens? I am not interested in DO school as I want to be able to work in the UK (I am a dual UK and US citizen) and from what I can tell it is not accepted in the UK.

If I should just apply, any schools I should focus on?

Thoughts!

buy the MSAR, its only 15 dollars.
retake it only if you know you can get a 33+ and your ready in july.

 

[dandelion88]

hey so i graduated from a UC with cgpa 3.83 and sgpa 3.80. i took the mcat last june and got 28M (9P,8V,11B), which was roughly avg of what i was scoring on the aamc practice tests.

i applied this past cycle, submitted ~20 secondaries, but got no interviews. i applied to lower range schools so im confused whether my mcat was too low or my ECs not competitive enough or maybe just applied too late (mid july my app was validated). i had done 1 yr of research, cumulative 1yr of shadowing, and a summer doing a unique UCSF hospital volunteering where i had lots of patient interaction.

meanwhile ive been working since for 6 months as a research asst at a genetics company & plan to get my EMT certification this fall and hopefully work a bit as a one next year before applying in june 2012.

at this point im really not excited about possibly having to re-take the test, but i also dont want to go through the whole app process again and fail. thoughts/advice are much appreciated!! 🙂

 

[kautionwirez]

hey so i graduated from a UC with cgpa 3.83 and sgpa 3.80. i took the mcat last june and got 28M (9P,8V,11B), which was roughly avg of what i was scoring on the aamc practice tests.

i applied this past cycle, submitted ~20 secondaries, but got no interviews. i applied to lower range schools so im confused whether my mcat was too low or my ECs not competitive enough or maybe just applied too late (mid july my app was validated). i had done 1 yr of research, cumulative 1yr of shadowing, and a summer doing a unique UCSF hospital volunteering where i had lots of patient interaction.

meanwhile ive been working since for 6 months as a research asst at a genetics company & plan to get my EMT certification this fall and hopefully work a bit as a one next year before applying in june 2012.

at this point im really not excited about possibly having to re-take the test, but i also dont want to go through the whole app process again and fail. thoughts/advice are much appreciated!! 🙂

apply to DO schools. If your planning to apply this cycle with MDs, you need to retake your MCAT, M will raise flags, 28 is on the lower end and will not help your chances.

 

[RJCAPPforMD]

Hi, I have a 3.98 GPA but scored a 30N (P10,V9,B11) on my MCAT. I have awesome recommendation letters, tons of research experience, and adequate amount of extracurriculars. I really want to get into a top 10 or top 20 medical school. Do you think I am still competitive with my current MCAT or should I retake it? I really need some advice as I don't know what to do.

If you are looking to only top 10 or 20 medical schools. I would definitely retake. I feel that with your GPA and great stats the only big obvious drawback would be the low (to top tier school standard) MCAT. Just try! I really think you will do much better.

 

[RJCAPPforMD]

hey so i graduated from a UC with cgpa 3.83 and sgpa 3.80. i took the mcat last june and got 28M (9P,8V,11B), which was roughly avg of what i was scoring on the aamc practice tests.

i applied this past cycle, submitted ~20 secondaries, but got no interviews. i applied to lower range schools so im confused whether my mcat was too low or my ECs not competitive enough or maybe just applied too late (mid july my app was validated). i had done 1 yr of research, cumulative 1yr of shadowing, and a summer doing a unique UCSF hospital volunteering where i had lots of patient interaction.

meanwhile ive been working since for 6 months as a research asst at a genetics company & plan to get my EMT certification this fall and hopefully work a bit as a one next year before applying in june 2012.

at this point im really not excited about possibly having to re-take the test, but i also dont want to go through the whole app process again and fail. thoughts/advice are much appreciated!! 🙂

I am applying this cycle so I don't have most trustworthy answer, but I will give my 2cents. To me, it seems that your credentials as far as extracurricular and such goes seem to be fine, especially since you apply to low-tier schools (maybe they are not as low-tier as you think?). I don't think a validated application in mid July is late AT ALL, that is a great time! I do believe that your MCAT is on the low side. The problem is probably your below ten subscores, schools really don't like that. I WOULD retake the MCAT. Just do it!
I think it is interesting that you received no interviews, it baffles me a little, since it seems everything besides the just a little lower MCAT score seems to be fine. Do you feel that you have good recommendation letters?

 

[dandelion88]

I am applying this cycle so I don't have most trustworthy answer, but I will give my 2cents. To me, it seems that your credentials as far as extracurricular and such goes seem to be fine, especially since you apply to low-tier schools (maybe they are not as low-tier as you think?). I don't think a validated application in mid July is late AT ALL, that is a great time! I do believe that your MCAT is on the low side. The problem is probably your below ten subscores, schools really don't like that. I WOULD retake the MCAT. Just do it!
I think it is interesting that you received no interviews, it baffles me a little, since it seems everything besides the just a little lower MCAT score seems to be fine. Do you feel that you have good recommendation letters?

I appreciate the input! Yeah i was equally surprised that I got zero interviews. And I really did apply to lower schools (ie NY Medical, Drexel, Loma Linda, UCF, Tulane, etc). I had 3 recommendation letters- 2 science, 1 non- and I'm about 95% confident that at least one in each category (so 2/3) were good, and I usually sent all 3 in. I actually never considered my letters as a possible set-back, but it's definitely something I'll look into!

My lack of confidence in the MCAT and just poor past experiences with standardized tests is what deters me most from re-taking. I knew my MCAT was holding me back but I hoped my higher GPA could prove my academic ability. My worry is investing months studying with little guarantee of a much improved score vs. spending those months doing more enjoyable, and medically applicable activities (ie EMT stuff, volunteering, etc).

So you don't think my ECs are sub-par? My theory was maybe admissions weren't convinced of my commitment and experience with medicine?

 

[Stoich08]

bump

 

[kautionwirez]

I have a 4.0 GPA but a 29Q MCAT score (10 V, 11 PS, 8 BS) with five (hopefully) strong LORs. I have three summer internship experiences and research during the school year, two leadership positions, and community service at an assisted-living home. I have already submitted my primary apps and started a few of my secondaries. I'm also a traditional, non-URM applicant. Should I consider retaking the exam?

I would if you have it already planned this month or early next month. I also think you have a great shot at schools with your other stats outweighing your MCAT scores. If you can't take it within a month, I'd just go and apply with those stats.

 

[chocofudges]

I got a 31 R on the MCAT
9 VR
12 PS
10 B

GPA: 3.78
Science GPA: 3.57 (but including all college science courses including those taken in high school, it is a 3.55)

Usually, my highest section on the practice tests was verbal reasoning. I often got 13 in it, but this time I got a 9

My EC's are spanish translator for three years, volunteer at a Syrian orphanage and hospital for two winter breaks, junior volunteer at Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton for 2 summers, Charity Outreach manager of a new business my brother and his friend started (don't worry it is legit, but it has not yet been legally established), and an occasional tutor of SAT and math in my free time. I also shadowed a cardiologist and internal medic for a month each.

I am 16 now, and am at senior status at Rutgers (graduating in three years).

Should I retake the exam or no? I got over 30, but I don't know if that is enough hahaha.

 

[kautionwirez]

I got a 31 R on the MCAT
9 VR
12 PS
10 B

GPA: 3.78
Science GPA: 3.57 (but including all college science courses including those taken in high school, it is a 3.55)

Usually, my highest section on the practice tests was verbal reasoning. I often got 13 in it, but this time I got a 9

My EC's are spanish translator for three years, volunteer at a Syrian orphanage and hospital for two winter breaks, junior volunteer at Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton for 2 summers, Charity Outreach manager of a new business my brother and his friend started (don't worry it is legit, but it has not yet been legally established), and an occasional tutor of SAT and math in my free time. I also shadowed a cardiologist and internal medic for a month each.

I am 16 now, and am at senior status at Rutgers (graduating in three years).

Should I retake the exam or no? I got over 30, but I don't know if that is enough hahaha.

When are you applying? I don't know the age requirement to be in medical school but you probably know. I would take it again if you aren't applying this cycle. I suggest everyone confident enough to improve by 3+ to retake.

 

[Smiths11]

Hi,

So I just took the MCAT today and I think I probably did bad, not because it was hard but because I didn't sleep enough last night, since I wasn't used to waking up so early (I know, a pretty stupid reason to not do well). I didn't void my scores, and I already sent in my AMCAS and AACOMAS applications indicating today's date as my exam date.

My question is, should I register for the August 18th MCAT (the first date after today's scores will be released) right now, just in case I did bad on today's, and then cancel if I did well? The problem is that it's so late in the season so I don't want to wait until I get my scores back, and then register to retake in September or so if I didn't do well. What do you all recommend? thanks

 

[anxious1818]

okay this is my first so it took me awhile to find out how to post (hopefully i did it)

my MCAT from August 2010:
PS 9, BS 9, VR 8, WS Q = 26Q

cGPA= 3.7 (OMSAS scale) or 83.5% (simple avg) + lots of extracurricular/research/volunteer

First time: took 2 month Princeton Review course; studied for roughly 1.5 months by myself (didnt do much practice tests or practice qs for PS, BS or WS)
on test day: too nervous; room very hot! sort of gave up, guessed abt 50% for sciences

Second time: hopefully sept 10 2011; no review course; will study material/practice probs for 1 month starting today and abt 1 month for just full length practice exams

Should i retake for admission to Ontario Med Schools??? im afraid ill get lower!!! havent touched material for abt 1 year; really just want to do better on VR as thats what Mcmaster looks at

 

[chocofudges]

When are you applying? I don't know the age requirement to be in medical school but you probably know. I would take it again if you aren't applying this cycle. I suggest everyone confident enough to improve by 3+ to retake.

I'm applying this year, and I already sent in my primaries....I don't think there is an age requirement actually (at least, that is what my advisor told me). It could negatively impact me though if admission officers don't think that I am ready maturity wise.

 

[kautionwirez]

I'm applying this year, and I already sent in my primaries....I don't think there is an age requirement actually (at least, that is what my advisor told me). It could negatively impact me though if admission officers don't think that I am ready maturity wise.

There are several medical schools that require you to be 21 I believe?

You should definitely look into that... I remember when I was thinking about applying as a sophomore and I saw one of the schools requiring me to be 21 when I enter...

 

[kautionwirez]

okay this is my first so it took me awhile to find out how to post (hopefully i did it)

my MCAT from August 2010:
PS 9, BS 9, VR 8, WS Q = 26Q

cGPA= 3.7 (OMSAS scale) or 83.5% (simple avg) + lots of extracurricular/research/volunteer

First time: took 2 month Princeton Review course; studied for roughly 1.5 months by myself (didnt do much practice tests or practice qs for PS, BS or WS)
on test day: too nervous; room very hot! sort of gave up, guessed abt 50% for sciences

Second time: hopefully sept 10 2011; no review course; will study material/practice probs for 1 month starting today and abt 1 month for just full length practice exams

Should i retake for admission to Ontario Med Schools??? im afraid ill get lower!!! havent touched material for abt 1 year; really just want to do better on VR as thats what Mcmaster looks at

definitely retake. don't let nerves get to you.

Good luck!

 

[kautionwirez]

and to everyone applying this cycle or questions about MCAT/GPA please look over this link:

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=838625

 

[Smiths11]

Hi,

So I just took the MCAT today and I think I probably did bad, not because it was hard but because I didn't sleep enough last night, since I wasn't used to waking up so early (I know, a pretty stupid reason to not do well). I didn't void my scores, and I already sent in my AMCAS and AACOMAS applications indicating today's date as my exam date.

My question is, should I register for the August 18th MCAT (the first date after today's scores will be released) right now, just in case I did bad on today's, and then cancel if I did well? The problem is that it's so late in the season so I don't want to wait until I get my scores back, and then register to retake in September or so if I didn't do well. What do you all recommend? thanks

Bump. Anyone? Is the August exam too late, and therefore should I just stick with whatever score I get back from the July 16 one? Thanks. 🙂

 

[Abscissa]

I'm applying this year, and I already sent in my primaries....I don't think there is an age requirement actually (at least, that is what my advisor told me). It could negatively impact me though if admission officers don't think that I am ready maturity wise.

Medical schools cannot actually do this. They can't disqualify you for admission on the basis of age. The Civil Rights Act prohibits this in Title VII. Federal law protects you from age discrimination, especially at institutions that receive federal funding.

 

[kautionwirez]

Bump. Anyone? Is the August exam too late, and therefore should I just stick with whatever score I get back from the July 16 one? Thanks. 🙂

I would

 

[cwang1990216]

just got back my score...10VR 8PS 12 BS..i knew i ran out of time on physics..so no surprise...should i retake ( sep 1st)?

 

[IceHoot]

Got scores back, looking at:

PS: 12 (up 4 from 2009)
VR: 10 (down 1 from 2009)
BS: 10 (up 2 from 2009)
Writing: S (up from M from 2009)

Applying this cycle (haven't sent in primary yet) with cGPA of 3.4, last 80 credits of school have been all As including upper-div science classes (engineering major). Kind of a non-trad, been working full-time for the past few years, ECs including research and such...so should I retake this sucker in January and not submit?

Money isn't really an issue, so I guess I could submit this app this year and study for a retake in January, which I could update schools with, assuming they haven't rejected me by then...

 

[LukeC]

I live in California, where the average scores, as most know are ridiculously high.
I just got my score today, and got:
VR: 10
PS: 10
BS: 11
W: R
At 31R, I know it's over 30, so according to the first post, I shouldn't retake... but I am nervous about living in CA where my top schools have median scores of 35, with my top school (UCSF) having a 10th percentile score of 30.

I'm a non-traditional student, I have an MA in physical anthropology and have had 5 years out of school. I went back for O-chem prereqs, and working full time took O-chem and my MCAT, which I talk about in my personal statement.

My father is a pediatrician so I've been around the medical field my whole life, and I have probably around 500 hours of lab time, including being a TA for a gross comparative anatomy course and performing 4 full cadaver prosections.

My graduate program was focused in forensic anthropology and I have worked on live casework with decomposing human remains.

Are my experiences enough to out-weigh my mediocre to low MCAT? My undergraduate GPA was 3.85 overall with 3.91 science. I also got A's in all my classes I took in the past year and a half for refresher MCAT/O-chem prereqs.

What do you think oh forum gods?

Thanks.

 

[movax]

What do you think oh forum gods?Thanks.

CA is one hell of a state to apply in-state, that's for sure.

Do you feel you studied enough? What kind of errors did you make on your practice tests? Content-wise? Run out of time? etc, etc.

 

[LukeC]

CA is one hell of a state to apply in-state, that's for sure.

Do you feel you studied enough? What kind of errors did you make on your practice tests? Content-wise? Run out of time? etc, etc.

I ran out of time on BS (only had 1 question left), and PS was absolutely killer (6/16 8am test, see that forum, everyone agreed).

I felt I studied as much as I could for the time. I was averaging 34's on my AAMC practice tests, without having many time difficulties. I took a TPR course, but walking out of the actual MCAT felt like I bombed. My biggest concern is if I take it again and I get a lower or the same score.
It's also been 8+ years since my last physics or biology class.

 

[tuuursh]

VR - 6
PS - 7
BS - 10
Writing - P
total 23P

science GPA - 3.98
cumulative GPA: 3.96
i have about 350+ shadowing/internship hours, and MANY more volunteer hours
also am a TA for a biochemistry class
planning on doing research next semester
helpp?

 

[NYCmedschoolapp]

-

 

[Zach90]

Just got my 6/16 score... 11, 11, 10, totalling at 32R. I averaged 35 on kaplan practices, with a couple of 37s, and I averaged 34 on aamc, with a couple of 36s. The 6/16 test was just so much more difficult. Should I retake? My application is weak. I have no research, and my shadowing experience is limited to 50 hours at Bellevue Hospital, and a 3.81 GPA at Binghamton University.

My options as I see them: retake August 12th, hope for the best.
OR: Retake in January, build up my application, and apply for 2013 instead.

But isnt it very difficult to start medical school after 1+ year off from school?

 

[Whatyousay]

VR - 6
PS - 7
BS - 10
Writing - P
total 23P

science GPA - 3.98
cumulative GPA: 3.96
i have about 350+ shadowing/internship hours, and MANY more volunteer hours
also am a TA for a biochemistry class
planning on doing research next semester
helpp?

If you want to have any shot at MD, you will need to retake. I'm not sure how your app would stand for DO, since your MCAT is still pretty low (even though your GPA is obviously outstanding). What were your practice test scores? When do you plan on applying?

 

[Whatyousay]

Just got my MCAT score today and I'm not very pleased.

I've already submitted AMCAS and have been verified. I can begin submitting secondaries today.

AMCAS GPA: 3.52
AMCAS sGPA: 3.56
MCAT: 27R

NYS Resident - Applying to schools in NYS, Boston, Philly, D.C. and Chicago

My EC's are really great. I've done everything on the applicant "checklist" (clinical research, bench research, shadowing, hospital volunteering, mission trips abroad, maintained paid employment, school clubs, leadership activities, plenty of other volunteering) and most of the situations have been unique.

I am Hispanic and some of my EC's have been to benefit the Hispanic community.

I'm not sure if I should withdraw my app and try to take the MCAT again next year...
Thanks for the help.

What were you making on practice tests? If they weren't very far off your score, you probably wouldn't get anything out of a retake.

 

[CodeBlu]

just got back my score...10VR 8PS 12 BS..i knew i ran out of time on physics..so no surprise...should i retake ( sep 1st)?

No. Do not re-take.

Got scores back, looking at:

PS: 12 (up 4 from 2009)
VR: 10 (down 1 from 2009)
BS: 10 (up 2 from 2009)
Writing: S (up from M from 2009)

Applying this cycle (haven't sent in primary yet) with cGPA of 3.4, last 80 credits of school have been all As including upper-div science classes (engineering major). Kind of a non-trad, been working full-time for the past few years, ECs including research and such...so should I retake this sucker in January and not submit?

Money isn't really an issue, so I guess I could submit this app this year and study for a retake in January, which I could update schools with, assuming they haven't rejected me by then...

Submit your app. Things are golden. You will be fine.

I live in California, where the average scores, as most know are ridiculously high.
I just got my score today, and got:
VR: 10
PS: 10
BS: 11
W: R
At 31R, I know it's over 30, so according to the first post, I shouldn't retake... but I am nervous about living in CA where my top schools have median scores of 35, with my top school (UCSF) having a 10th percentile score of 30.

I'm a non-traditional student, I have an MA in physical anthropology and have had 5 years out of school. I went back for O-chem prereqs, and working full time took O-chem and my MCAT, which I talk about in my personal statement.

My father is a pediatrician so I've been around the medical field my whole life, and I have probably around 500 hours of lab time, including being a TA for a gross comparative anatomy course and performing 4 full cadaver prosections.

My graduate program was focused in forensic anthropology and I have worked on live casework with decomposing human remains.

Are my experiences enough to out-weigh my mediocre to low MCAT? My undergraduate GPA was 3.85 overall with 3.91 science. I also got A's in all my classes I took in the past year and a half for refresher MCAT/O-chem prereqs.

What do you think oh forum gods?

Thanks.

The gods have spoken... great GPA... great MCAT... great ECs... apply away. Good luck!

VR - 6
PS - 7
BS - 10
Writing - P
total 23P

science GPA - 3.98
cumulative GPA: 3.96
i have about 350+ shadowing/internship hours, and MANY more volunteer hours
also am a TA for a biochemistry class
planning on doing research next semester
helpp?

I think you're going to have to re-take unless you're considering DO. Nice GPA, good luck!

Just got my MCAT score today and I'm not very pleased.

I've already submitted AMCAS and have been verified. I can begin submitting secondaries today.

AMCAS GPA: 3.52
AMCAS sGPA: 3.56
MCAT: 27R

NYS Resident - Applying to schools in NYS, Boston, Philly, D.C. and Chicago

My EC's are really great. I've done everything on the applicant "checklist" (clinical research, bench research, shadowing, hospital volunteering, mission trips abroad, maintained paid employment, school clubs, leadership activities, plenty of other volunteering) and most of the situations have been unique.

I am Hispanic and some of my EC's have been to benefit the Hispanic community.

I'm not sure if I should withdraw my app and try to take the MCAT again next year...
Thanks for the help.

Don't withdraw your app. Apply as is, and retake next year if necessary. Hispanic = URM... s'all good.

 

[Whatyousay]

Just got my 6/16 score... 11, 11, 10, totalling at 32R. I averaged 35 on kaplan practices, with a couple of 37s, and I averaged 34 on aamc, with a couple of 36s. The 6/16 test was just so much more difficult. Should I retake? My application is weak. I have no research, and my shadowing experience is limited to 50 hours at Bellevue Hospital, and a 3.81 GPA at Binghamton University.

My options as I see them: retake August 12th, hope for the best.
OR: Retake in January, build up my application, and apply for 2013 instead.

But isnt it very difficult to start medical school after 1+ year off from school?

Where are you looking to apply? A 32 + a GPA of 3.81 should open the doors to plenty of mid-tiers. The lack of research probably limits your options to outside of the top 20 anyways. That being a said, a 32 isn't very far off from your AAMC avg. What were the range of scores for your practice tests?

Do you have any clinical experience outside of shadowing? If not, using the next year to build up your app might open up a lot more options for you. Plenty of people take a gap year between undergrad and medical school (whether or not that's a good idea depends on your goals in med school, your debt from undergrad, etc.).

 

[Tara Bell]

I graduate in a week and was planning on submitting my med school application at the end of the month, but now I'm wondering if I should apply to a PhD program instead...

B.S. biology, GPA 3.1
M.S. medical science, GPA 3.96
MCAT (VR10/PS6/BS10), 26N
Volunteered at hospital for 100 hours and have been shadowing a physician since March of this year, but only for a total of ~20 hours.

I REALLY don't want to take the MCAT again unless I have no other choice. I'm planning on applying to state (FL) schools only and was hoping on getting accepted to the school I've been at since an undergrad.

Thanks for any advice!

 

[DoctorXYZ]

12P, 7V, 10B (29N)

3.66 cGPA, 3.80 sGPA

Top 5 university

Lots of community service/hospital volunteering and shadowing
Amgen Scholar and 1 research publication (lots of lab experience)

I think I am going to apply to schools that accept 29 MCATs. I will be an early application too (since I submitted my AMCAS already and have submitted secondaries and my committee letter is being sent this week). Think I made the right choice. I figure if I don't get in this year - retake the MCAT next year and reapply.

 

[DrMeowMeow]

.

 

[tuuursh]

If you want to have any shot at MD, you will need to retake. I'm not sure how your app would stand for DO, since your MCAT is still pretty low (even though your GPA is obviously outstanding). What were your practice test scores? When do you plan on applying?

I think you're going to have to re-take unless you're considering DO. Nice GPA, good luck!

Thanks for the advice (BOTH of you!)! I'm applying to only one DO school, the rest are MD, but my advisor keeps telling me different things on what to do, she keeps focusing on my GPA. I've had averages of 28s on the kaplan practice MCAT, but didn't really get to take any AAMC past exams, since I was away on vacation right before my MCAT (which, thinking about it now was probably a mistake). I've been studying a little bit here and there since my MCAT and I'm scheduled to retake august 6. the AAMC practice tests i hear are better to take for a real idea on what your score will end up being, so i'll spend the money on those

 

[MusicIsLife511]

PS 9, V 7, BS 10 - 26R 🙁

GPA - 3.83, sGPA - 3.76
600+ hours of clinical experience (rounding with doctors and sitting in on appointments) and shadowing experience (at a hospital and Neurology offices)
1200+ hours of community service
Worked as an EMR Chart Abstractor for a summer
Volunteered as a First Aider on my school's EMS Squad
Worked for a summer as an EEG Technician
Tutor at my school's Tutoring Center (5-7 hrs/wk)
Currently working on 2 research projects that will most likely be published

I'm applying to both MD and DO schools. I was planning on retaking it on July 29th, and I have been studying but not as rigorously as for the 1st test. I would only take it just to make my Verbal score go up to an 8 (as I was averaging around 7 or 8 on practice tests), but I don't know if it's worth risking having my scores drop even lower.

Is applying to MD schools completely hopeless? Do I have a decent shot at DO?

 

[Whatyousay]

I graduate in a week and was planning on submitting my med school application at the end of the month, but now I'm wondering if I should apply to a PhD program instead...

B.S. biology, GPA 3.1
M.S. medical science, GPA 3.96
MCAT (VR10/PS6/BS10), 26N
Volunteered at hospital for 100 hours and have been shadowing a physician since March of this year, but only for a total of ~20 hours.

I REALLY don't want to take the MCAT again unless I have no other choice. I'm planning on applying to state (FL) schools only and was hoping on getting accepted to the school I've been at since an undergrad.

Thanks for any advice!

Unfortunately, grad school GPA doesn't really factor as much in the application process as your undergrad GPA, so realistically, you're a 3.1/26 applicant. Ideally, you would like a higher GPA + higher MCAT.

When are you planning on applying? I really think you need BOTH GPA repair and a retake, but that would probably be something that is best answered in the What Are My Chances forum.

 

[Whatyousay]

PS 9, V 7, BS 10 - 26R 🙁

GPA - 3.83, sGPA - 3.76
600+ hours of clinical experience (rounding with doctors and sitting in on appointments) and shadowing experience (at a hospital and Neurology offices)
1200+ hours of community service
Worked as an EMR Chart Abstractor for a summer
Volunteered as a First Aider on my school's EMS Squad
Worked for a summer as an EEG Technician
Tutor at my school's Tutoring Center (5-7 hrs/wk)
Currently working on 2 research projects that will most likely be published

I'm applying to both MD and DO schools. I was planning on retaking it on July 29th, and I have been studying but not as rigorously as for the 1st test. I would only take it just to make my Verbal score go up to an 8 (as I was averaging around 7 or 8 on practice tests), but I don't know if it's worth risking having my scores drop even lower.

Is applying to MD schools completely hopeless? Do I have a decent shot at DO?

You should be set for DO schools (your MCAT is around average, and your GPA is well above average). MD might be a bit of stretch, although you might have a chance at lower tier schools with your GPA + ECs.

Don't retake the MCAT if you're not confident in your ability to raise your overall score. A 26 isn't great, but it isn't nearly as bad as retaking a 26 and getting something even lower.

 

[GPHM]

I just got my scores from the June 16th 2011 exam and it is not looking good...

VR: 8
PS: 7
WS: P
BS: 6

I have no idea what to do....(well I know I have to retake...) but I do not know when....August 23rd or some time in September? I will have about three weeks to prep if I take it in August and about four if I take it in September...

Will schools not decide at all until my next scores are in?

I know that my chances are looking low for this cycle...but I am still going to try my best, I need to get in this cycle...

Please help me.

 

[Whatyousay]

I just got my scores from the June 16th 2011 exam and it is not looking good...

VR: 8
PS: 7
WS: P
BS: 6

I have no idea what to do....(well I know I have to retake...) but I do not know when....August 23rd or some time in September? I will have about three weeks to prep if I take it in August and about four if I take it in September...

Will schools not decide at all until my next scores are in?

I know that my chances are looking low for this cycle...but I am still going to try my best, I need to get in this cycle...

Please help me.

Schools won't evaluate you until your new score is in.

At this point, a one week difference in the completion of your app matters a LOT less than doing well on the MCAT. That being said, if you feel like you'll be roughly at the same level of "preparedness" in August versus September, I would take it in August.

What were practice test scores? Have you submitted your application already? If you were getting around a 21 on your practice tests, I'm not sure a month of studying (even with an extra week) would be enough to boost your score into a respectable range.

 

[GPHM]

I honestly did not have enough time to evaluate my practice test scores minus the first couple ones I took which were around a 21... after that I just worked on absorbing more content and doing practice problems and little sections not whole tests. I was a full time student at the time and had a very very busy schedule.
I know that I can do better, 100% sure...I just do not know by how much...I'm also so terrified that I'll fail its hindering me. I cannot look at my mom and tell her I got a 21....I just feel so guilty and horrible about myself, it's my biggest fear to disappoint my parents and then myself.

I have to sign up for a test date now before all start to fill up and I do not know which to sign up for. If I can get my score up by five points...do you think this will help? What month would you recommend? I have my application already done and submitted (I am just waiting for some of my letter of recs to get submitted...three have been already). I do not want to put my application on hold for that long though. Is there a way for schools to start looking at it...and then get updated when new scores have arrived?

Thank you for all your input...I'm just desperate to do the right thing at this point. 🙁

Schools won't evaluate you until your new score is in.

At this point, a one week difference in the completion of your app matters a LOT less than doing well on the MCAT. That being said, if you feel like you'll be roughly at the same level of "preparedness" in August versus September, I would take it in August.

What were practice test scores? Have you submitted your application already? If you were getting around a 21 on your practice tests, I'm not sure a month of studying (even with an extra week) would be enough to boost your score into a respectable range.

 

[SunnySideUp2011]

PS - 10
VR - 9
BS - 10

TOTAL: 29R

Nontrad student
GPA about 3.5
Excellent clinical/research experience
Excellent Recommendations

So bummed because really the PS and VR are where I expected, but I had a killer bio section (2pm) and dropped about 3 points from my BS score. I think I am capable of 31-32.

Do I retake? When is the latest I can retake? At this point I'm interested in low to mid-tire Allopathic schools in this cycle only.... Thanks for the advice!

 

[Whatyousay]

I honestly did not have enough time to evaluate my practice test scores minus the first couple ones I took which were around a 21... after that I just worked on absorbing more content and doing practice problems and little sections not whole tests. I was a full time student at the time and had a very very busy schedule.
I know that I can do better, 100% sure...I just do not know by how much...I'm also so terrified that I'll fail its hindering me. I cannot look at my mom and tell her I got a 21....I just feel so guilty and horrible about myself, it's my biggest fear to disappoint my parents and then myself.

I have to sign up for a test date now before all start to fill up and I do not know which to sign up for. If I can get my score up by five points...do you think this will help? What month would you recommend? I have my application already done and submitted (I am just waiting for some of my letter of recs to get submitted...three have been already). I do not want to put my application on hold for that long though. Is there a way for schools to start looking at it...and then get updated when new scores have arrived?

Thank you for all your input...I'm just desperate to do the right thing at this point. 🙁

Even assuming a stellar GPA, a 26 will put you at a disadvantage for MD programs, although you maybe become competitive for DO programs at that point.

I would sign up for the August test date at this point (just to hold a spot), and then take a practice test ASAP. If your scores are still around 21, I would push back your test date. It's honestly hard to give decent advice at this point - one month is simply a very short period of time to go about correcting your flaws for the MCAT, and you're going to be late along in the cycle regardless of how things work out.