Should I Retake the MCAT (513) Before Reapplying?

[hxm]

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I am a ORM non-traditional applicant working part-time in healthcare with three young children and other familial obligations for the elderly. When I decided to apply to medical school 1.5 years ago, I retook the core science classes simultaneously, and only had time to study for ~2.5 months intensively before taking the MCAT (June 2024) in order to apply in a timely manner. I only applied to one school near me as I was not ready to commit to relocating my family yet.

I am now preparing to apply everywhere for the next application cycle. I am trying to decide if I should retake the MCAT in April 2025. I'd like to think that I would do better if I have more time to study. However, we have been short-staffed at work, my kids are demanding (ha), I will be taking one English and one social science class, and I don't want to risk getting a lower score.

Would appreciate any feedback on whether I should retake the MCAT. Thanks in advance!!

 

[SpicyHotSauce]

513 is a great score. I wouldn't retake it. Make a good list of schools before applying and you should do great! Check out the WAMC threads, and an amazing volunteer (Faha) will give you a great list!

 

[Hollow Knight]

Probably not. Unless you’re from California or something and even then a 513 is awesome.

Given your other responsibilities I don’t think you’ll do better. And you don’t need to, that score is higher than most matriculants get

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Welcome to the forums.

Your school list will determine your success. MCAT scores are important but not sufficient, especially for many UC medical schools who want people dedicated to serving underserved/marginalized patients in their areas of California.

 

[hxm]

513 is a great score. I wouldn't retake it. Make a good list of schools before applying and you should do great! Check out the WAMC threads, and an amazing volunteer (Faha) will give you a great list!

Thank you so much for directing me to the WAMC threads!

 

[hxm]

Probably not. Unless you’re from California or something and even then a 513 is awesome.

Given your other responsibilities I don’t think you’ll do better. And you don’t need to, that score is higher than most matriculant

Thanks! I am from CA. I was thinking the same. Unfortunately if we end up moving, I will probably feel guilty for not trying to retake the MCAT.

 

[hxm]

Don't retake a 513 unless you are confident you can score above a 518. 513 is above the average for MD matriculants, so I think you are in a good spot assuming the rest of your application is solid.

Thanks!