When to take the MCAT

[cherry~blossoms]

I started studying a bit ago with the intent of taking the exam in January, but now I'm doubting myself. I've gotten through 20% of content review so far, but kind of halfheartedly without much practice (the times have been rough for me). I'm just wondering if my plan is doable, keeping in mind that I do have school but a lighter course load:

-finish content review in 30-40 days with practice sprinkled in + CARS passages (maybe 4-5 hrs/day)
-a few weeks of devoted practice passages
-last 1.5-2 months of AAMC material (FL's, Q Packs, Section Bank)

Honestly, I think it boils down to my mindset and commitment. I've been having a hard time, but my living situation is changing soon, so I think that will help. If it doesn't, I'll just push the exam to March. Overall, I'm hoping to get some advice from folks, perhaps some confirmation and a confidence boost as well. Thank you!

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[crownblue]

Honestly pushing back my MCAT was the best decision I made. I think it’s good to have a deadline and push yourself to study enough before then but I just wasn’t ready and I did well bec I pushed it back. Think about the big picture!

 

[Princeton Medical Student]

I HIGHLY suggest to use third party full lengths and to start on UWorld asap if you haven't already. MCAT is an application test, and not a test of content. Ultimately the person who can decide when to take is you. For me, not taking the test last summer was the best decision I could have made, and have seen my score rise over 15 points on average since.

 

[Blueprint Med School]

Agree with above. Practice questions are your friends, add more of them. And you usually know you're ready when you have multiple practice exams within your goal range. It also depends on your risk tolerance. Will any US med school do? Do you want to do MD? T20? What does the rest of your resume look like?

David D, MD - USMLE and MCAT Tutor
Med School Tutors