Study plan for a non-trad

[kayak30]

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I read many interesting and informative threads on SDN, however, I was hoping someone could offer some advice specific to my situation.

As much as I would love to follow the SN2ed plan posted, I am limited on resources/finances and I'm hoping to purchase only set of books from either Princeton Review or Kaplan to self-study (I do have an old EK verbal 101 book that someone gave me, and a super old 2005 McGrall Hill MCAT book, should I use these?).

Here is my situation:

I am a non-trad over 30 student and I will be finishing my last two pre-reqs (Organic 1 and Organic 2 this fall/spring at a community college after leaving a post-bac, so I know how important my MCAT score will be first time around).

I would really like to apply in the spring so this means I need to take the MCAT before I complete Organic 2. I would like to start an intensive study schedule soon, but I worry if I give myself too much time before taking the MCAT that I may forget some of the material. Is it the general consensus that it's best to study 3mo. before and no more/less? I will be working only part-time and taking 1 class close to home.

Here are some of my questions/concerns:

1) Should I invest in Princeton Review or Kaplan books- I don't want to/can't spend more than $200

2) When should I start an intensive study schedule? More than 3mo ok?

3) What is the best MCAT date I should register for if I want to apply in the spring while taking Ochem 2?


Thank you so much in advance...much, much, much appreciated!!! 😳

 

[SN2ed]

If you only have $200 to spend for MCAT prep materials, I would strongly suggest you wait until you have more money. Sadly, MCAT prep and just taking the test itself is an expensive process (not to mention applying). With $200, you can't even buy all of the AAMC FLs, let alone MCAT books.

 

[OzelloPiRat]

For books, keep your eye on the classified threads here. Also look on Craigslist as I got all EK books and some 2005 ones for $80. See if there's people you can borrow from. I have lent many materials out to those in need. And yes, make sure you budget out the complete costs of practice tests and the real one.

 

[kayak30]

For books, keep your eye on the classified threads here. Also look on Craigslist as I got all EK books and some 2005 ones for $80. See if there's people you can borrow from. I have lent many materials out to those in need. And yes, make sure you budget out the complete costs of practice tests and the real one.

Thank you, I will be sure to keep checking the classifieds

 

[kayak30]

If you only have $200 to spend for MCAT prep materials, I would strongly suggest you wait until you have more money. Sadly, MCAT prep and just taking the test itself is an expensive process (not to mention applying). With $200, you can't even buy all of the AAMC FLs, let alone MCAT books.

Thank you I will be sure to try to budget to at least get the AAMC tests!

 

[Bamfu]

I personally thought AAMC tests were worth the most money to me. After that, probably the EK full review pack. Think it was $125 when I bought mine.

 

[PanRoasted]

I got the entire EK book set off amazon used for $50. Granted, it was highlighted to bits (I mean, who needs to highlight every SINGLE word...what's the point?), and it was a pretty old edition, but it got the job done. I would splurge a little and get some of the BR books though, particularly the physics and chemistry.

 

[ven2083]

SN2ed,
I read your 3-month guide to studying for the MCAT. I wanted to ask you what you would change to your study guide now that the exam is changing over the next couple of years? Which study books/practice tests should I purchase? I am planning to take the test in March 2013. I know that the writing sample section will be removed.

Thanks