Will plan to retake test, but slightly unsure about it

[kddude1]

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Just got my score back and a lot lower than my fl average of ~519. I did have some test anxiety but didn't think it would affect me as much as it really did. I am most likely going to retake in early spring before applications open, but with CARS being so hit or miss is it worth it? I know I can do better but at the same time what if I sell CARS and P/S. Both my CARS and P/S were a lot lower than my FL averages.

Im a TX resident. 4.0 GPA, and I believe the rest of my app is T30 material. But with this MCAT I am just disappointed cuz I know I can do better. Im also taking a gap year so I'll have more time to build up hours. What do y'all think?

Suppose I were to retake, what rough score would I need to get for it to be viewed favorably/make a difference in adcoms view?

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Welcome to the forums. Most applicants retake the exam and get a score within 3 points of their original score. Therefore to me, a significant difference would be +10 to your overall MCAT (522+).

You are also more than your metrics. As a Texas applicant, mission fit is essential to your success, even if you have a lower than average MCAT. (Someone has to be lower than the average.)

 

[kddude1]

Thanks for the information! I believe that this exam was not a true representation of what I have been scoring. If I score a 516-517 during my retake would that be enough difference? I don't know if I want to gamble, because what is to say I have the same level of anxiousness during my retake.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Thanks for the information! I believe that this exam was not a true representation of what I have been scoring. If I score a 516-517 during my retake would that be enough difference? I don't know if I want to gamble, because what is to say I have the same level of anxiousness during my retake.

Many schools average all MCAT attempts when screening applications (though they may choose differently at their discretion). A 10-point second score will result in a 517 when both results are averaged.