Should I retake the MCAT?

[GBCrzzyy]

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So I'm trying to decide if I should retake the MCAT or not. 1st attempt = 488 2nd attempt = 501 (with a two month gap). I know that I could do better on a third try but I am EXTREMELY strapped for cash and I really just want to submit my apps next week. I could make the jump and take it in September but I'm concerned that my application will not be reviewed until late September and my chances of getting an acceptance will be even lower due to the delay. I definitely don't want to wait a year if I can avoid it. I just graduated in May so I'm in my gap year but I really don't want to spend a long time out of school.

 

[AnatomyGrey12]

What does the rest of your app look like?

 

[GBCrzzyy]

What does the rest of your app look like?

cGPA of about 3.5-3.45, sGPA of about 3.4 lots of ECs and volunteering - firefighter, emt, tutor, shadowing, an assortment of clubs and and leadership roles, good LORs, no research, a couple sports. I am hoping to be shadowing a DO and I'll find out about that next week. I'm planning on adding that experience and maybe LOR after I submit. My GPA is average but the MCAT is where I'm hurting

 

[PossibleDOC?]

I wouldn't retake it unless you can GUARANTEE a 508 or higher.....really a 510 but im being generous

 

[AnatomyGrey12]

cGPA of about 3.5-3.45, sGPA of about 3.4 lots of ECs and volunteering - firefighter, emt, tutor, shadowing, an assortment of clubs and and leadership roles, good LORs, no research, a couple sports. I will be volunteering at my local hospital starting in the next couple weeks (i will add that on after I submit) and I am hoping to be shadowing a DO too and I'll find out about that next week. I'm planning on adding that experience and maybe LOR after I submit. My GPA is average but the MCAT is where I'm hurting

I wouldn't retake. With those ECs (especially the firefighter part) then you should be fine with a broad app. Your GPAs are fine paired with a 501

 

[cptnjack]

just apply really broadly, u should get some IIs . GPA and ECs are fine

 

[Goro]

just apply really broadly, u should get some IIs . GPA and ECs are fine

This!!!

 

[GBCrzzyy]

Thanks so much for the advice everyone! I have 26 schools lined up, I hope that will be broad enough