When is the best time to take the MCATs?

Question

How long before applying for a Med school should you take your first MCAT?

Answer 1

AMCAS application opens in early June every year. To ensure that you scores will be ontime, you should take the April exam just before you apply.

HOWEVER, lots of people take the April exam, and the score is curved. for less competition, you can take the August exam and hope the scores will be released in time for your applications, or wait for the following year to apply.

MCAT scores are short-lived. Top-tier schools only take scores less than 2 years old. Lower-ranked schools take 3-yr-old scores. Some Caribbean schools take scores within the last 5 years.

But I think it funny you should ask about a "first" MCAT. That test is painful, and I would hope you intend to make it your first AND ONLY test. I took it twice not because I was dissatisfied with my score, but because my first score expired.

As for test prep, the other guy mentioned Kaplan. They're good if you like to work alone from books or online. I took Princeton Review classes, and they're good if you like classroom time and group exercise.

Answer 2

They've added a lot of new dates to take the MCAT so there isn't a specific test date you need to take it by. I would suggest as soon after you take all your pre reqs because you forget all that information so quickly! Most people take it after their junior year, but some take it their sophomore or senior year. Since you start the AMCAS application in June, I would try to take it as soon as you could (Jan/April) so you know your score and can retake the test if needed. A school generally won't look at an applicant until all of their MCAT scores are in their file so if the school relies on rolling admissions you won't recieve any of the benefits by applying early. Good luck!

ps. exam kracker book series are much cheaper and better than then $1500 kaplan/princeton review classes!

Answer 3

at least a year before you plan to apply. this will allow you to retest (if necessary) and still not waste too much time. the fall semester, a year prior, to the date you want to apply is best.... also, you may want to take a Kaplan course before the test. Kaplan has a guarantee of increasing your MCAT test scores quite considerably. Good luck!