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)​

 

[Tikster]

4/2010: Total 23O
8/2010: Total 26O
5/2011: Total 24P
8/2012: Total 28Q (Physical 9, Verbal 11, Biological 8)

GPA ~ 3.6
Should I retake it or just concentrate on applying early?
(I've applied once before literally on the deadline and got two interviews but still didn't get accepted)

 

[lawlzi]

4/2010: Total 23O
8/2010: Total 26O
5/2011: Total 24P
8/2012: Total 28Q (Physical 9, Verbal 11, Biological 8)

GPA ~ 3.6
Should I retake it or just concentrate on applying early?
(I've applied once before literally on the deadline and got two interviews but still didn't get accepted)

Were you applying to DO as well last time? And do you think you can raise your score to a 30 on a retake? If not, then its not worth the time and effort to restudy. It would probably be better to improve your app in other ways..

 

[deleted603294]

.

 

[80808]

9/11/13: 30 (10-9-11)
4/11/14: 26 (8-8-10) ---Just got this back and I am so disappointed...

AAMC Avg: 31

Help! Should I retake? And how much does that drop from a 30 to a 26 hurt me? I want to apply this cycle for MD.
GPA and sGPA: 3.65
Extracurriculars: average/strong
LOR: strong

Thank you!

 

[BobGadha]

9/11/13: 30 (10-9-11)
4/11/14: 26 (8-8-10) ---Just got this back and I am so disappointed...

AAMC Avg: 31

Help! Should I retake? And how much does that drop from a 30 to a 26 hurt me? I want to apply this cycle for MD.
GPA and sGPA: 3.65
Extracurriculars: average/strong
LOR: strong

Thank you!

I would certainly not retake as you probably will not show significant improvement in your score, beyond your original 30. Obviously, the drop in score is not a good thing. Most schools do not average your scores. Depending on the school, the admissions committee generally weighs the highest score or the most recent one more heavily. They will also see a list of each attempt with the dates. However, there is more to admissions than the MCAT. Your GPA, ECs and LORs are good. If I were you (and this is what I'm doing), I would instead take the time that you would use to study to bolster other aspects of your application, for example ECs.

 

[galactoside]

Just got my scores for 4/11. 8 PS/ 7 VR / 14 BS = 29 First take. Undergrad GPA 2.90 and PostBacc GPA 3.99.
Practice tests: AAMC 3 - 10/9/10 = 29, AAMC 4 - 9/9/11 = 29, AAMC 5 - 11/9/12 = 32
Followed EK 10 week home study but I did not have enough time for optional practice questions.

Not sure how to judge my ECs/LORs; I am a non traditional applicant applying to DO and MD schools. With section scores below a 9 I am thinking retake. Any thoughts?

 

[modernprometheus]

Just got my score for 4/11. 14 PS/11VR/12BS=37. I know it's a good score, but it is 3-4 less than what I got on the AAMC FLs. I was nervous on test day and didn't perform like I should have. I go to a top 5 college and this score doesn't stand out among my classmates. I'm worried that I won't be competitive for the top medical schools. Is it worth it to retake?
I realize how this sounds, but I know I can do better.

 

[BobGadha]

Just got my score for 4/11. 14 PS/11VR/12BS=37. I know it's a good score, but it is 3-4 less than what I got on the AAMC FLs. I was nervous on test day and didn't perform like I should have. I go to a top 5 college and this score doesn't stand out among my classmates. I'm worried that I won't be competitive for the top medical schools. Is it worth it to retake?
I realize how this sounds, but I know I can do better.

I, on a much lower scale, understand your frustration. Provided your GPA, EC's, LORs are great, a 37 won't be much different from 40. There comes a point in the MCAT scores where the impressiveness levels off to "Holy ish, that's an amazing score." You, my friend, have surpassed that threshold. I wouldn't take again. What if it goes down? Re-taking an amazing score might be taken as poor judgment. Congrats on your score and hard work! Stop worrying, start celebrating!

 

[James1992]

So I recently took the MCAT and I received a 28 (8/8/12). My extracurriculars are decent but not great. 300 hours of research (will be over a thousand by next year) 200 hours of volunteering in hospital, EMT-b license (never used it though), actively enrolled in 2 clubs on campus (will hold executive roles in both of them next year), some brief shadowing at approx 10 hours. I've worked retail for 3 years with a couple of summer jobs. basically it. My cGPA is a 3.67 and my sGPA is a 3.75. WI resident.

I just would like someones input on this scenario. I feel capable of landing a 30, but is it worth the time and investment? I was thinking about submitting app day one with the schools I wish to apply to and retake in August. I won't get my scores back till september, but is a 28 workable? My preference is the 2 WI schools. I don't mind tiers, and I just want to make sure the school is a good fit (decent research opportunities).

So bottom line: Would medical schools be willing to overlook the two 8s because of the 12 in bio? And if it would be wise to retake, should I hold off till end of summer so I make sure I nail it?

 

[Heplayer92]

Hey all,

I took the MCAT and received a 11/8/11 = 30.

I was averaging about a 32. On verbal, I was getting 9-12s pretty regularly through the AAMCs. I know that I messed up on verbal because I remember I ran out of time on the last passage (was a lot harder than I had thought when I skimmed each passage). However, I did where I was averaging on the sciences. Is this worth a re-take? I have a 3.7 cGPA, 3.63 sGPA from a top 30 school (top 3 public universities).

Thanks!

 

[lpp06]

4/11/2014 - 10/10/10 30

Practice AAMCs (in order taken) were 34 (4), 32 (5), 35 (7), 35 (9), 30 (8), 32(10), 31(11) (avg approx 33). The lowest I scored in any section was a 10. With my average being an 11. Took the last 4 tests within 4 days of each other with the last test being 2 days before the real thing. At the time I didn't think I felt burnt out, however I don't doubt that's the case as there was a general downward trend leading into the thing

The complications: I'm a reapplicant non trad who's taken the test already in 2009. I scored a 34 (14/10/10). I've exhausted all AAMC FL's (however not the self assessment) and am worried I may not have an accurate measurement for how I will do leading into a retake. My EC's aren't special enough to outweigh a 30 and I'm very unsure how a decrease from a 34 to a 30 will be viewed given the 5 year gap.

BCPM 3.7/ Total 3.7

AMCAS could be ready to go early June.

 

[BobGadha]

Hey all,

I took the MCAT and received a 11/8/11 = 30.

I was averaging about a 32. On verbal, I was getting 9-12s pretty regularly through the AAMCs. I know that I messed up on verbal because I remember I ran out of time on the last passage (was a lot harder than I had thought when I skimmed each passage). However, I did where I was averaging on the sciences. Is this worth a re-take? I have a 3.7 cGPA, 3.63 sGPA from a top 30 school (top 3 public universities).

Thanks!

I wouldn't. The difference between a 30 and 32 is not very significant. At least, I don't think it's enough of a difference to risk scoring lower.

 

[dancingmate]

Just got my score back today. It was a 33 (14/9/10).

Should I be concerned about the 9 and 10 and go for a retake? I am hoping to go to an MD school.

(Both my cGPA and sGPA are 3.9+)

I wouldn't be too concerned about the 9 or the 10. You have a solid GPA and with some strong ECs, you should be able to get admission somewhere. My biggest advice would be to apply broadly.

 

[potatolike]

Also got my score back today. Total: 34 (13 ps / 7 vr / 14 bs)

Do I need to retake for MD schools? I imagine that a 7 would destroy my chances at any MD school. cGPA and sGPA are 3.9+

Usually at least 9 is desired in each section. 34 is definitely a good score, but 7 in Verbal could definitely bring you down. Since you did really well on the other two it is hard to say if you should definitely retake it. You may have a chance for MD schools that have mcat avg 30-31, but not much for 34-35. Actually come to think about it, your very high GPA along with good LOR can make your chance much better, especially if you are from one of more respected private or public institutes.

I will give you an example from my own experience. I had 3.7 GPA (for both total and science) with my second mcat 33 (13/12/8). Verbal was 8. I ended up applying for 35 schools, got about 10 interviews only from schools whose avg mcat score was 30-31. Never got interviews from places like AECOM or BU. Heck, not even from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson (was in Jersey at that time). I ended up wait listed in 4, and only got downright acceptance from only one, a mid to low tier private medical school. I am pretty sure you need to do better to get accepted than 4 years ago. Hope you find your solution.

 

[potatolike]

Hey all,

I took the MCAT and received a 11/8/11 = 30.

I was averaging about a 32. On verbal, I was getting 9-12s pretty regularly through the AAMCs. I know that I messed up on verbal because I remember I ran out of time on the last passage (was a lot harder than I had thought when I skimmed each passage). However, I did where I was averaging on the sciences. Is this worth a re-take? I have a 3.7 cGPA, 3.63 sGPA from a top 30 school (top 3 public universities).

Thanks!

I had to leave a comment to you because your situation seems very similar to what I went through 10 years ago. I had 3.7 gpa at UCLA, and my first mcat was 31, 13/10/8 (8 being Verbal; not a native speaker). In my first cycle when I applied fairly early (not on June 1st, though), I only got 4 interviews with no luck. When I consulted several people they were cautiously leaning toward retake, but doing worse was a definite risk. I did it again next year, and got 33, 13/12/8 (so my verbal didn't change). I submitted everything on June 1st, got 10 interviews (out of about 40) from mid tier schools, but didn't get any interviews from schools that had 32-33 as average mcat (e.g. AECOM, BU, etc). I ended up getting one acceptance and 4 waitlists.

Bottom line: unfortunately, 8 is a very odd number that can make your decision to retake very hard. If I were you, I would retake the exam in the hope of improving all 3 sections (11 is not bad, but you still have good chance to do better; 13 is the number where it starts getting very hard to go north from there). Hope my comment helped, and that you make a good decision.

 

[Heplayer92]

I had to leave a comment to you because your situation seems very similar to what I went through 10 years ago. I had 3.7 gpa at UCLA, and my first mcat was 31, 13/10/8 (8 being Verbal; not a native speaker). In my first cycle when I applied fairly early (not on June 1st, though), I only got 4 interviews with no luck. When I consulted several people they were cautiously leaning toward retake, but doing worse was a definite risk. I did it again next year, and got 33, 13/12/8 (so my verbal didn't change). I submitted everything on June 1st, got 10 interviews (out of about 40) from mid tier schools, but didn't get any interviews from schools that had 32-33 as average mcat (e.g. AECOM, BU, etc). I ended up getting one acceptance and 4 waitlists.

Bottom line: unfortunately, 8 is a very odd number that can make your decision to retake very hard. If I were you, I would retake the exam in the hope of improving all 3 sections (11 is not bad, but you still have good chance to do better; 13 is the number where it starts getting very hard to go north from there). Hope my comment helped, and that you make a good decision.

Hi potatolike,

Appreciate the feedback bud. I will definitely take it to heart. I am studying for a retake currently...but will decide more concretely when the time nears and when I get practice test scores. I hope you don't mind if I ask you some more questions that may come up on the way via messaging. Thanks again for taking the time to share your insight.

All the best in your endeavors,

Heplayer92

 

[potatolike]

Hi potatolike,

Appreciate the feedback bud. I will definitely take it to heart. I am studying for a retake currently...but will decide more concretely when the time nears and when I get practice test scores. I hope you don't mind if I ask you some more questions that may come up on the way via messaging. Thanks again for taking the time to share your insight.

All the best in your endeavors,

Heplayer92

No problem. Message me if you have other questions. I don't know how to do it, I guess I can respond to whatever I get from you.

 

[potatolike]

Just got my score back today. It was a 33 (14/9/10).

Should I be concerned about the 9 and 10 and go for a retake? I am hoping to go to an MD school.

(Both my cGPA and sGPA are 3.9+)

In my opinion, with your super high GPA and respectable MCAT, you will get a good look from a lot of MD schools. For top tier research institutes, your mcat is on the lower side, but you may have a better chance if you have extensive research experience. Bottom line: I think it is not about if, but about where (well, you never know until you have an acceptance letter, but you have a good chance).

 

[potatolike]

So I recently took the MCAT and I received a 28 (8/8/12). My extracurriculars are decent but not great. 300 hours of research (will be over a thousand by next year) 200 hours of volunteering in hospital, EMT-b license (never used it though), actively enrolled in 2 clubs on campus (will hold executive roles in both of them next year), some brief shadowing at approx 10 hours. I've worked retail for 3 years with a couple of summer jobs. basically it. My cGPA is a 3.67 and my sGPA is a 3.75. WI resident.

I just would like someones input on this scenario. I feel capable of landing a 30, but is it worth the time and investment? I was thinking about submitting app day one with the schools I wish to apply to and retake in August. I won't get my scores back till september, but is a 28 workable? My preference is the 2 WI schools. I don't mind tiers, and I just want to make sure the school is a good fit (decent research opportunities).

So bottom line: Would medical schools be willing to overlook the two 8s because of the 12 in bio? And if it would be wise to retake, should I hold off till end of summer so I make sure I nail it?

I hate to break this to you, but from my experience, 28 is a low score for an average MD school, and having two 8 makes your chances even lower (compared to having 9/9/10, for example). Your GPA is good, but not good enough to cover your deficit from your mcat. Research definitely helps, but wouldn't change the course much without competitive MCAT and/or GPA (unless you published as first author on Cell, Nature, Science, etc). Both MCW and Wisconsin are competitive mid tier medical school (maybe in between tier 1 and 2? I don't know), and below average mcat with avg/good GPA won't make this process easy.

You should talk to people who got accepted with similar numbers, but in my opinion it is better off to retake for those schools. About when you should take it? I am not sure. It is a good idea that you hold it off until you are ready to definitely improve your score, but it also may cost this cycle if the medical schools decide not to wait for your 2nd MCAT score. By the way, I think you are definitely competitive for DO school, but I guess you are not considering them at this point. Hope this assessment helps, but I apologize if my comment was a little harsh.

 

[James1992]

I hate to break this to you, but from my experience, 28 is a low score for an average MD school, and having two 8 makes your chances even lower (compared to having 9/9/10, for example). Your GPA is good, but not good enough to cover your deficit from your mcat. Research definitely helps, but wouldn't change the course much without competitive MCAT and/or GPA (unless you published as first author on Cell, Nature, Science, etc). Both MCW and Wisconsin are competitive mid tier medical school (maybe in between tier 1 and 2? I don't know), and below average mcat with avg/good GPA won't make this process easy.

You should talk to people who got accepted with similar numbers, but in my opinion it is better off to retake for those schools. About when you should take it? I am not sure. It is a good idea that you hold it off until you are ready to definitely improve your score, but it also may cost this cycle if the medical schools decide not to wait for your 2nd MCAT score. By the way, I think you are definitely competitive for DO school, but I guess you are not considering them at this point. Hope this assessment helps, but I apologize if my comment was a little harsh.

Thank you for getting back to me. I don't think your comment was harsh at all. I understand my MCAT is definitely going to hold me back and retaking will probably be my best option. I will hold off to retake until mid august. If I'm going to retake it, I'm going to do this thing right. MCW also will take the best score from each section so that will definitely help, that is like you said if they don't reject my app without looking at my new score. I will also call the med schools and see if they can provide on any input.

 

[TxC]

In my opinion, with your super high GPA and respectable MCAT, you will get a good look from a lot of MD schools. For top tier research institutes, your mcat is on the lower side, but you may have a better chance if you have extensive research experience. Bottom line: I think it is not about if, but about where (well, you never know until you have an acceptance letter, but you have a good chance).

Okay, thank you so much for your opinion! I really appreciate it.

 

[lawlzi]

Usually at least 9 is desired in each section. 34 is definitely a good score, but 7 in Verbal could definitely bring you down. Since you did really well on the other two it is hard to say if you should definitely retake it. You may have a chance for MD schools that have mcat avg 30-31, but not much for 34-35. Actually come to think about it, your very high GPA along with good LOR can make your chance much better, especially if you are from one of more respected private or public institutes.

I will give you an example from my own experience. I had 3.7 GPA (for both total and science) with my second mcat 33 (13/12/8). Verbal was 8. I ended up applying for 35 schools, got about 10 interviews only from schools whose avg mcat score was 30-31. Never got interviews from places like AECOM or BU. Heck, not even from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson (was in Jersey at that time). I ended up wait listed in 4, and only got downright acceptance from only one, a mid to low tier private medical school. I am pretty sure you need to do better to get accepted than 4 years ago. Hope you find your solution.

Thanks for your insight! I contacted some schools and they pretty much said the same as you - a 9 in each section is the (unofficial) minimum. I'm retaking in June, hoping to get a 10 this time around in VR. Before my first mcat, my aamc (3-11) VR average was a 10 (range: 9-11) but I didn't feel good about VR after I finished.

 

[bleach121]

I have a 3.66 cGPA and about 3.55 sGPA. My MCAT was a 27; PS:8,V:9,BS:10. Last cycle I got wait-listed at two schools but I am now leaning towards reapplying because I don't want to bank on those. I need some advice, do you guys think that I should retake the MCAT if I decide to reapply? Thanks.

 

[BobGadha]

I have a 3.66 cGPA and about 3.55 sGPA. My MCAT was a 27; PS:8,V:9,BS:10. Last cycle I got wait-listed at two schools but I am now leaning towards reapplying because I don't want to bank on those. I need some advice, do you guys think that I should retake the MCAT if I decide to reapply? Thanks.

MD or DO? Also, you should consider asking schools why they rejected you. I have not yet applied to schools, but from people I know and researching FAQs on schools' websites, some schools will actually give you ideas on what you need to work on.

 

[bleach121]

MD or DO? Also, you should consider asking schools why they rejected you. I have not yet applied to schools, but from people I know and researching FAQs on schools' websites, some schools will actually give you ideas on what you need to work on.

I am aiming for MD schools. I haven't followed up with any schools yet. I felt that my EC's were sufficient and my interviews went well. I feel that my MCAT is the main reason why I didn't get in. I know you should only take it once, but do you think I should retake it for my situation?

 

[BobGadha]

I am aiming for MD schools. I haven't followed up with any schools yet. I felt that my EC's were sufficient and my interviews went well. I feel that my MCAT is the main reason why I didn't get in. I know you should only take it once, but do you think I should retake it for my situation?

I would probably retake it. In case you have to reapply next year, you would want to show the adcom that you've assessed your weaknesses and revamped your application accordingly. Since you feel that your MCAT score is your biggest weakness, this "revamping" would include improving your score. You should try take it by the end of this year, since the exam is changing next year. Best of luck! Hopefully you'll be accepted from one of the wait-lists and this will all be moot!

 

[xSpartansWrathx]

I am reapplying this year. Just graduated with a 3.85 gpa, and I got a 30 last year (11,9,10). I had 3 interviews (all at SUNY's) out of the 12 schools I applied to and no acceptances.

I plan on getting full time job in a hospital and doing some volunteering or shadowing work as well. I have never done research.

I'm not sure if I want to retake it because if I do there's a chance I could do worse or only improve by a point or two. Also, if I take it again in July or August then I'm applying late like I did last year and I would rather take 2 years off instead of not having applications in until June.

Any thoughts?

 

[Heplayer92]

I am reapplying this year. Just graduated with a 3.85 gpa, and I got a 30 last year (11,9,10). I had 3 interviews (all at SUNY's) out of the 12 schools I applied to and no acceptances.

I plan on getting full time job in a hospital and doing some volunteering or shadowing work as well. I have never done research.

I'm not sure if I want to retake it because if I do there's a chance I could do worse or only improve by a point or two. Also, if I take it again in July or August then I'm applying late like I did last year and I would rather take 2 years off instead of not having applications in until June.

Any thoughts?

Are there other parts of your application that you could strength? If you got 3 interviews, that probably means that your numbers are fine. How did you feel leaving those interviews? Did you do some mock/practice interviews?

Some other areas that can be usually improved are your LORs? What about your essays (PS and secondaries)? Add the extra ECs you did this year and maybe even write about them better in your activities/work section?

Also, APPLY EARLY (first day/first week)! This is completely in your control, and will definitely increase your chances! You should also apply to more than 12 schools. Get the MSAR, it really helps out with providing useful information about schools.

Best of luck OP!

 

[BobGadha]

Are there other parts of your application that you could strength? If you got 3 interviews, that probably means that your numbers are fine. How did you feel leaving those interviews? Did you do some mock/practice interviews?

Some other areas that can be usually improved are your LORs? What about your essays (PS and secondaries)? Add the extra ECs you did this year and maybe even write about them better in your activities/work section?

Also, APPLY EARLY (first day/first week)! This is completely in your control, and will definitely increase your chances! You should also apply to more than 12 schools. Get the MSAR, it really helps out with providing useful information about schools.

Best of luck OP!

I am reapplying this year. Just graduated with a 3.85 gpa, and I got a 30 last year (11,9,10). I had 3 interviews (all at SUNY's) out of the 12 schools I applied to and no acceptances.

I plan on getting full time job in a hospital and doing some volunteering or shadowing work as well. I have never done research.

I'm not sure if I want to retake it because if I do there's a chance I could do worse or only improve by a point or two. Also, if I take it again in July or August then I'm applying late like I did last year and I would rather take 2 years off instead of not having applications in until June.

Any thoughts?

In addition to the great advice above, contact the schools and ask what they felt prevented you from receiving an acceptance. Sometimes schools are willing to point out what they perceived to be flaws in your application.

 

[xSpartansWrathx]

Thank you to both of you for the great advice. Here's a few things to respond to what you suggested.

-I interviewed at SUNY Upstate, Downstate, and Buffalo.

Upstate was my first interview and I felt great when leaving. I got feedback from them and it seemed like my interview was their biggest concern. I guess it was my first one so I understand if I misjudged it.

Downstate was a nightmare. I knew the second after that interview that I wasn't getting in. Surprisingly, their feedback mentioned nothing about the interview at all. They seemed to focus more on retaking the MCAT.

I'm still waiting for feedback from Buffalo. I felt pretty good after that interview but I knew it was a toss up. I should hear from them soon.

----------

If I reapply this year then I'm getting my stuff in the first week of June. Last year my MCAT scores came in on 9/4 so I didn't get most secondaries in until mid September. This year I would be moving up at least 2 months. I plan on working full time at a hospital or doing research, and I will eliminate all reach schools and apply to more schools overall. I also will add on DO which I didn't do last year.

I think the two big things to improve on are clinical experience and interviewing skills. With all that do you guys think I'm ok with not retaking? I feel like there are areas to work on without the risk of that test.

 

[BobGadha]

Thank you to both of you for the great advice. Here's a few things to respond to what you suggested.

-I interviewed at SUNY Upstate, Downstate, and Buffalo.

Upstate was my first interview and I felt great when leaving. I got feedback from them and it seemed like my interview was their biggest concern. I guess it was my first one so I understand if I misjudged it.

Downstate was a nightmare. I knew the second after that interview that I wasn't getting in. Surprisingly, their feedback mentioned nothing about the interview at all. They seemed to focus more on retaking the MCAT.

I'm still waiting for feedback from Buffalo. I felt pretty good after that interview but I knew it was a toss up. I should hear from them soon.

----------

If I reapply this year then I'm getting my stuff in the first week of June. Last year my MCAT scores came in on 9/4 so I didn't get most secondaries in until mid September. This year I would be moving up at least 2 months. I plan on working full time at a hospital or doing research, and I will eliminate all reach schools and apply to more schools overall. I also will add on DO which I didn't do last year.

I think the two big things to improve on are clinical experience and interviewing skills. With all that do you guys think I'm ok with not retaking? I feel like there are areas to work on without the risk of that test.

In my opinion, your stats are fine for MD if you apply plentifully and broadly. I personally wouldn't risk getting a lower score if you feel that you couldn't significantly improve your study method/score. It's great that you're working on your ECs, since that will give you something new to talk about. You should check your college career center or a local career center, like in some county libraries, to see if they have interviewing resources. Practice interviewing techniques with them, with your friends, with your family members. I think by revamping your application with ECs, perhaps throwing in new, excellent LORs/essays and practicing interviewing techniques, you'll have a better experience next time. Remember, confidence is key. This is my personal, unprofessional opinion. You should definitely shoot your pre-health advisor an e-mail and ask their professional opinion. Best of luck, dude!😎

 

[Morgadeshou]

I took the MCAT in January and scored a 30 10/10/10. I was getting 32s and 33s on the AAMCs so I'm a little disappointed. I'm shooting for MD so I'm right on the border. I'd be fine with a 30 normally but my GPA kind of sucks, its a 3.2 UG and a 4.0 from a year of Post bacc from Upenn. I'm not sure if the Post bacc can balance out my UG GPA out enough for me to overlook a very average MCAT score. So firstly should I retake? Secondly since I already have a ok MCAT score that I can apply to schools with, would it be possible for me to take the MCAT really late like in august or september when I have more time to study and send it in way after my application is submitted to replace the 30? like an status update or something? or would taking it in september pretty much only be useful for applying next cycle. Any advice would be appreciated! thanks!

 

[Hopefully819]

Hello!

I took the MCAT and got 12/8/10, with a 3.53 undergraduate gpa. I am shooting for a MD. Should I retake it?

 

[BobGadha]

I took the MCAT in January and scored a 30 10/10/10. I was getting 32s and 33s on the AAMCs so I'm a little disappointed. I'm shooting for MD so I'm right on the border. I'd be fine with a 30 normally but my GPA kind of sucks, its a 3.2 UG and a 4.0 from a year of Post bacc from Upenn. I'm not sure if the Post bacc can balance out my UG GPA out enough for me to overlook a very average MCAT score. So firstly should I retake? Secondly since I already have a ok MCAT score that I can apply to schools with, would it be possible for me to take the MCAT really late like in august or september when I have more time to study and send it in way after my application is submitted to replace the 30? like an status update or something? or would taking it in september pretty much only be useful for applying next cycle. Any advice would be appreciated! thanks!

You should calculate your AMCAS GPA. If it is below 3.5, you may want to consider re-taking the MCAT. If it above, I think you should be okay with lower-mid to low tiered schools. I am not an expert. You should probably ask your post-bacc program's pre-health advisory team or even e-mail schools that you're interested in. Good luck!

 

[BobGadha]

Hello!

I took the MCAT and got 12/8/10, with a 3.53 undergraduate gpa. I am shooting for a MD. Should I retake it?

You should talk to your school's pre-health team or e-mail schools you're interested in. My two cents, if this is around your average practice test score, don't retake it as you run the risk of scoring lower. This would be terrible. On the other hand, if your practice average is significantly higher, which I would take to be about four points higher, then you may want to retake, especially with the 8. Be careful not to let one section slide while increasing another (e.g. 8 goes up while 12 goes down), which is very common. Good luck!

 

[neurd165]

I got VR: 12 BS: 14 PS: 8 Total: 34
I can't decide if I need to retake, because of my PS score.
I have 3.8+ cGPA and 3.7+ sGPA, and lots of extracurriculars. I didn't get anything below a 10 on PS on my practice exams so I'm pretty surprised by the score. Any feedback would be welcomed.

 

[BobGadha]

I got VR: 12 BS: 14 PS: 8 Total: 34
I can't decide if I need to retake, because of my PS score.
I have 3.8+ cGPA and 3.7+ sGPA, and lots of extracurriculars. I didn't get anything below a 10 on PS on my practice exams so I'm pretty surprised by the score. Any feedback would be welcomed.

Hello, @neurd165 ! Great job. I think you should be okay. If you're really concerned, you could e-mail schools you're interested in and ask if they have a section floor number. However, I would expect that you will encounter the "see-saw effect" where one section will go up as the others go down.

 

[Terps1011]

I am sure someone has had similar stats on here, but I will ask again

overall GPA:3.84
science GPA:3.77
MCAT: 9/8/10 -27
other noteable activities: research, scribing, Teach for america

 

[TxC]

I am sure someone has had similar stats on here, but I will ask again

overall GPA:3.84
science GPA:3.77
MCAT: 9/8/10 -27
other noteable activities: research, scribing, Teach for america

I think your stats are certainly good enough for DO schools if you plan on applying to them. Your MCAT seems balanced so I personally think you'll have a shot at some MD schools as well. Apply to your in-state schools.

Based on the MSAR, some other schools I think that you should apply to are:

- NYMC
- Albany
- Drexel
- George Washington
- Quinnipiac
- Medical College of Wisconsin

Many of these schools do get tons of applications though (10k+) so I think you should definitely apply to DO schools as well.

Hope this helps!

 

[markymark71990]

Should I retake?

28 MCAT 11 PS/10 BS/ 7 V, 3.8-3.9 GPA, volunteer at underserved hospital for 1.5 years, volunteer at underserved clinic for 1.5 years, shadowed an ER MD for 6 months, mentor for america reads, academic mentor at school, shadow an anesthesiologist for the past year and a half and tutor his daughter. Work as a TA for organic chemistry at school. Just got a job working as an OR assistant at Banner hospital.

 

[yeahscience]

j

 

[BobGadha]

MCAT 30 (9/10/11)
GPA: 3.79 (weighted with plus minus scale)

ECs: research (have won two fellowships-$2500 and $5000), hospital volunteer, Young Life leader, bible study leader, musician, Sigma Alpha Iota (community service and leadership)

I'm a cancer survivor so I'm writing about that in my PS

Is this 30 going to blemish my app enough that I should retake?

I'm from illinois and want to go to school in Chicago

You should be able to receive some love from schools in Chicago. You are within range for (in order of decreasing median MCAT, therefore, increasing chances for you): Loyola Stritch, University of Illinois at Chicago, Rush, Rosalind Franklin, Southern Illinois (although, not in Chicago). Good luck!

 

[BobGadha]

Should I retake?

28 MCAT 11 PS/10 BS/ 7 V, 3.8-3.9 GPA, volunteer at underserved hospital for 1.5 years, volunteer at underserved clinic for 1.5 years, shadowed an ER MD for 6 months, mentor for america reads, academic mentor at school, shadow an anesthesiologist for the past year and a half and tutor his daughter. Work as a TA for organic chemistry at school. Just got a job working as an OR assistant at Banner hospital.

You should go through the MSAR and find schools that fit your stats, keeping in mind that some schools have strong in-state preference or have BS/MD students who make up the majority of their class (e.g. Brown). I, personally, think you're fine for DO and "lower-tier" MD programs. You should contact schools you're interested in to ask if they have a minimum subscore requirement. If you find that there are schools who will not look upon the 7 V approvingly, you should retake. If you're lucky enough to reside in a favorable state (i.e. anywhere but CA), you may find some luck at your state school, of course depending on which school that is.

 

[randmazn]

I'm considering a retake even though general opinion is that I shouldn't.

33 overall 11 in all sections
GPA: 3.87
EC is virtually nonexistent: 2 months volunteering at hospital, TA in two subjects, two non health related summer job internships

The reason I want to retake is because I was getting 38's and 37's in all of my AAMC practices, around 14 for my Bio and Physics sections and around 11-12 for verbal, no clue what went wrong on test day

I spent around 4 months before exam day reviewing material and began practice passages 1.5-2 months before, did nothing but practice exams in the two weeks before actual MCAT (could've raised my GPA back up to a 3.9 fml )
I'm thinking that I can devote the whole summer to clinical experience and MCAT prep then retake in late August or early September at the start of the fall semester.
I know that I should have focused on my EC's but that ship has sailed and I'm probably going to have to apply postbac after getting more research and stuff.
Would a retake help my app?

 

[TxC]

I'm considering a retake even though general opinion is that I shouldn't.

33 overall 11 in all sections
GPA: 3.87
EC is virtually nonexistent: 2 months volunteering at hospital, TA in two subjects, two non health related summer job internships

The reason I want to retake is because I was getting 38's and 37's in all of my AAMC practices, around 14 for my Bio and Physics sections and around 11-12 for verbal, no clue what went wrong on test day

I spent around 4 months before exam day reviewing material and began practice passages 1.5-2 months before, did nothing but practice exams in the two weeks before actual MCAT (could've raised my GPA back up to a 3.9 fml )
I'm thinking that I can devote the whole summer to clinical experience and MCAT prep then retake in late August or early September at the start of the fall semester.
I know that I should have focused on my EC's but that ship has sailed and I'm probably going to have to apply postbac after getting more research and stuff.
Would a retake help my app?

If you are confident that your score can go up on a retake and/or you really hope to go to a school like Harvard, then retake.

I'm don't know that with a lack of EC whether a higher MCAT will help or not.

With your numbers, I don't think postbac is necessary, maybe a gap year to focus on your weaknesses? Talk to a pre-med advisor at your school.

Hope this helps and good luck!

 

[Heplayer92]

I'm considering a retake even though general opinion is that I shouldn't.

33 overall 11 in all sections
GPA: 3.87
EC is virtually nonexistent: 2 months volunteering at hospital, TA in two subjects, two non health related summer job internships

The reason I want to retake is because I was getting 38's and 37's in all of my AAMC practices, around 14 for my Bio and Physics sections and around 11-12 for verbal, no clue what went wrong on test day

I spent around 4 months before exam day reviewing material and began practice passages 1.5-2 months before, did nothing but practice exams in the two weeks before actual MCAT (could've raised my GPA back up to a 3.9 fml )
I'm thinking that I can devote the whole summer to clinical experience and MCAT prep then retake in late August or early September at the start of the fall semester.
I know that I should have focused on my EC's but that ship has sailed and I'm probably going to have to apply postbac after getting more research and stuff.
Would a retake help my app?

Maybe take a year off? That way you can re-take the MCAT if you really think you can improve. If you were averaging 37-38, it's very possible that you can hit that on the real thing.

Also, a year off would give you an opportunity to expand on your ECs. You gotta pick up on your volunteering/clinical volunteering and do some shadowing. Numbers alone (which yours are already fantastic!) will not get you into medical school! Good luck!

 

[abcjmz]

I am thinking I should retake, but please let me know your thoughts. I have a 3.76 cGPA and:

12 PS, 6 VR, 10 BS = 27 MCAT.

Want to apply mostly OH MD schools, but also open to DO as well.

What do you think? Thanks.

 

[Theseus]

.

 

[BobGadha]

3.77cgpa, 27 (11/8/8). AAMC (3-11) average: 34. non-URM.
My ECs are about average: clinical volunteering (340) hrs, 2 semester research (960 hours), some shadowing (~10 hrs).

Breakdown:
AAMC 3: 32 (12/9/11)
AAMC 4: 36 (12/10/13)
AAMC 5: 33 (12/10/11)
AAMC 7: 36 (13/10/13)
AAMC 8: 34 (12/11/11)
AAMC 9: 39 (15/12/12)
AAMC 10: 35 (11/11/13)
AAMC 11: 30(10/10/10)

I highly doubt the nerves got to me during the May 8 MCAT. I felt pretty confident on VR and BS, but I'm not sure what the hell happened. I have July 24th MCAT scheduled now, but I was considering cancelling and applying to only allo NY state schools (NYC resident) and several DO schools. Any suggestions appreciated.

If you were simulating the testing experience during your practice tests (e.g. timing, quiet environment), I would strongly suggest retaking the exam. The difference between a 27 and a 34 is huge.

Also, buy an MSAR. If you analyze the data, you'll notice a 27 is at or below the 10th percentile for accepted students at SUNY schools.

However, if you are primarily focused on DO schools, I believe a 27 should be okay.

 

[sleeper11]

Hi, looking for some much-needed advice. Feeling really confused at the moment.

I have taken the MCAT twice:
June 2013: 28 (9PS, 9VR, 10BS)
May 2014: 29 (10PS, 9VR, 10BS)

Not a huge difference…..so I'm really bummed about that…studied extremely hard especially in PS the second time around. I thought the May exam was significantly harder than the first time I took the exam, and it kind of scared me into considering a retake for the third time. However, if I do decide to retake, I am aiming around end of July-beginning of August.

I have a 3.7 gpa. I have strong research experience (all focused on public health issues)….with 2 international conferences and a couple other school poster sessions…..research is pretty much the strongest thing I've got going for me.

I graduated in 2013. I have moderate clinical and shadowing experience (~100 hrs). I'm aiming for my state schools (new york).