Wait for MCAT score before applying to more schools?

[SIvankovic]

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I understand similar questions have been asked, but I feel like my situation is slightly different. I have already finished everything and submitted my AMCAS in June. I took the MCAT on July 26th and I think I did ok - hopefully around 30. I understand I won't get my scores back until late August so I am wondering if I should wait before applying to more schools (I currently only have in-state schools on my AMCAS application list). I guess my main concern is that I don't want to spend application fees/ time in applying to good schools if my MCAT score is not up to par. Also, I'm worried that as soon as they get my MCAT score (if it's not good enough) they will decline me versus sending them two scores (if I have to retake and assuming I do better). Basically, I am not sure if it will hurt me to add schools after I get my score....If I apply now, will that put me ahead in line? Will they even look at my application if I submit now and then consider my score as soon as it arrives? Any help/advice would be appreciated.

 

[Jepstein30]

I understand similar questions have been asked, but I feel like my situation is slightly different. I have already finished everything and submitted my AMCAS in June. I took the MCAT on July 26th and I think I did ok - hopefully around 30. I understand I won't get my scores back until late August so I am wondering if I should wait before applying to more schools (I currently only have in-state schools on my AMCAS application list). I guess my main concern is that I don't want to spend application fees/ time in applying to good schools if my MCAT score is not up to par. Also, I'm worried that as soon as they get my MCAT score (if it's not good enough) they will decline me versus sending them two scores (if I have to retake and assuming I do better). Basically, I am not sure if it will hurt me to add schools after I get my score....If I apply now, will that put me ahead in line? Will they even look at my application if I submit now and then consider my score as soon as it arrives? Any help/advice would be appreciated.

Schools won't consider your application until your MCAT score comes back if you indicate you have a pending test date. As for whether this means you don't enter the review queue until your scores are released, I honestly have no clue. I'd assume you wouldn't because your application would not be considered complete.

That being said, I wouldn't apply to any more schools right now. Take the time now to pre-write secondaries to schools you WOULD apply to if you hit your target score though so you can instantly add them to your AMCAS and submit their secondary ASAP once your scores come back.

 

[SIvankovic]

Thank you for your advice - I will look into the secondaries for the schools I would like to apply to.

 

[The Kraken]

Schools won't consider your application until your MCAT score comes back if you indicate you have a pending test date. As for whether this means you don't enter the review queue until your scores are released, I honestly have no clue. I'd assume you wouldn't because your application would not be considered complete.

That being said, I wouldn't apply to any more schools right now. Take the time now to pre-write secondaries to schools you WOULD apply to if you hit your target score though so you can instantly add them to your AMCAS and submit their secondary ASAP once your scores come back.

No other advice needed. 👍