Take MCAT closer to pre-req completion or on easy semester

[Doctorponder]

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Background: I'm a sophomore and I've completed all the pre-reqs and "recommended" except for the biologies. I'll be taking molecular bio and genetics this semester and then cell bio and physiology next semester.

I did well in my pre-reqs, but I studied more for the grade than to learn. I'm not familiar with the timeline for what needs to be done by when, I just know what I need to do. From what I understand, people in my position are usually juniors. Does the MCAT timing for juniors just happen to coincide with finishing most pre-reqs or do they usually take it because that's typically the optimal time?

Main: So I'm stuck at a crossways and could use some other perspectives. My options:
1) Study this summer and take MCAT during fall 16. (closer to prereqs, less time)
2) Study spring 17 (easy load) and take summer 17. (further from prereqs, more time)
3) Suggestions!

I know it ultimately depends on me, but it seems many of peers are taking it now, so it seems like I'm missing something.
Thanks guys!

 

[MedTRON]

do it on an easy semester you need as much studying time as possible

 

[efle]

I'm a strong advocate for summer studying. Doing large chunks of ~4 hours a day for ~8-10 weeks is perfect, and meanwhile also work part time, volunteer, take a class etc. Generally allows a lot more consistency in your schedule and makes you much more efficient than sporadic studying across a semester, even an easy one.

 

[RedStar7]

OP, just making sure but have you taken biochem?

 

[Doctorponder]

OP, just making sure but have you taken biochem?

Yeah

 

[Doctorponder]

I'm a strong advocate for summer studying. Doing large chunks of ~4 hours a day for ~8-10 weeks is perfect, and meanwhile also work part time, volunteer, take a class etc. Generally allows a lot more consistency in your schedule and makes you much more efficient than sporadic studying across a semester, even an easy one.

This makes a lot of sense.

 

[Save a life]

The best would be to study after you've taken the pre-req's and over a summer. I agree with the studying 4-8 hours a day.