real world vs. this board

[velouria]

Hi, I'm wondering about people here expecting REALLY high scores (high to me, anyway!). I think someone earlier mentioned that a 35 was just "OK." I got a list off the Internet that showed average scores for most schools. Generally they were 9-10 per section, for an overall average of only 27-30. Are the people talking about higher scores aiming for top-tier schools? Or was my list mistaken?? In other words, is a 27-30 competitive for applying to allopathic schools in the US?

Thanks for any insight!!

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[Mike59]

Originally posted by velouria
Hi, I'm wondering about people here expecting REALLY high scores (high to me, anyway!). I think someone earlier mentioned that a 35 was just "OK." I got a list off the Internet that showed average scores for most schools. Generally they were 9-10 per section, for an overall average of only 27-30. Are the people talking about higher scores aiming for top-tier schools? Or was my list mistaken?? In other words, is a 27-30 competitive for applying to allopathic schools in the US?

Thanks for any insight!!

Truth is, the process is about a lot more than numbers.

For the top 10 schools, yes, you need mid-30's MCAT to stand a reasonable chance. But a low MCAT can be offset by outstanding EC's, a great essay and a high GPA. I have a 4.0 but only got a 27 MCAT (didn't take a course, studied minimally). I managed to interview at one top 10 with that MCAT and am waitlisted there. I've also gotten in at 2 other allo schools no problem and have 2 other waitlists.

It's all about how your application is balanced. I would say 27 with nothing lower than an 8 in any section is about as low as you can go without having some major problems getting interviews (although technically 25+ should yield SOME interviews) if the rest of the app is competitive.

Always remember that in the US, median MCAT scores for enrolled students is 29-30. Some will be higher, others lower- go figure.

In a nutshell, yes, people on this board are neurotic, if not insane they way they throw around high stats. Do your best, don't stress, and see what happens.

 

[efex101]

Amen, and that was just proved recently. Lola was accepted w/o 30 plus scores at Georgetown. It is more than numbers!