Time frame???

[CCEMTP2DOC]

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I was just looking for some advice on time frame for application. I will graduate in Dec. 2007 with mt bachelor's. I will probably have to take a year to finish off pre req's. which would put me done in Dec. 2008. That would put me in line for matriculation in 2009. When should I take my MCAT?
April 2008? What classes should i definitely have before taking the MCAT? Orgo1 and physics 1? The reason i am worried is that I wil be 41 upon my grad with my B.S. and 42 upon application. My GPA and experience will be great, would it hurt me to wait til August? I will have a full load of classes the next 2 years, plus will take a class or 2 in the summer.


Thanks,

Rob

 

[Amy B]

You need to take all the required courses before taking the MCAT. That means gen chem 1 and 2 with labs, organic 1 and 2 with labs, physics 1 and 2 with labs, general biology 1 and 2. Those are the main courses that you should take before even attempting the MCAT. I know some folks haven't taken those and still take the MCAT but that is just asking for a low score.

I would recommend taking cell biology and physiology before taking it. Those 2 classes helped me out tremedously.

As for timing. Lots of folks are taking physics 2 and organic 2 at the same time as studying for the MCAT. Also teh April MCAT is given before finsihing those 2 classes, but it is ok, because you have covered what you need. If you take the August MCAT you will have your application going in later. You can apply at the begining of that application cycle but they will put your application on hold until they recieve your results. So there is a big advantage to taking the April MCAT. But you also want to be able to study for the MCAT and if you are too weighed down, you may not be able to study properly. The advantage to taking those classses at the same time as studying for the MCAT is your are preparing for the MCAT while you are studying the material for your exams. Two birds with one stone so to speak.

Good luck. I am now 39 and starting my MSII year. We have older students than me in my class. I am talking about in their 50's. DO schools like older students.