Three quarters of lecture and laboratory of each of the following sciences are generally required.
In addition, one year of English composition is usually required.
Some programs will have additional requirements that you will need to meet. And though it is not required, it may be helpful to take Biochemistry, Psychology, and Sociology as these concepts will be on the MCAT. Regarding AP, CLEP, and IB coursework, you will need to check the school admissions requirements for each program’s website.
How the Exam Is Structured
The MCAT exam has four multiple-choice test sections:
• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
• Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
• Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
When should I take the MCAT?
When you feel ready! There is no need to rush to take the exam. Sometimes, students will take the MCAT exam the same year they plan to apply to medical school. Before taking the MCAT, be sure you have a study plan to help you prepare.
Create a study plan for the MCAT:
Step 1: Gather Information about MCAT
Step 2: Take a practice test
Step 3: Gather study materials
Step 4: Make a study calendar
Step 5: Study!
Step 6: Prepare for test day
How many times should I take the MCAT?
Ideally, you should only take the MCAT one time. However, students can take the MCAT up to three times in one testing year. The MCAT can be taken up to four times in a two-year period. The MCAT can be taken a total of seven times in a lifetime. Voids and no-shows count toward your lifetime limits.
How long are MCAT scores valid?
Generally, the scores are valid for up to 2 to 3 years. Students should check each school's admissions policy to which they plan to apply.
Is the exam expensive?
The MCAT exam cost is $325.
The AACOMAS application cycle opens in May and closes the following April.
Generally, the AACOMAS application is available in early May for applicants to fill out their information. However, students cannot certify and submit their application until the end of May/beginning of June. Students do not need to immediately apply when the application opens, but they also should not wait until the last minute to apply. Ideally, students should certify and submit their AACOMAS applications no later than August 1. However, some medical schools may offer rolling admissions and review applications, interview candidates, and make decisions throughout the application window.
Students need to contact AAMC to have their official MCAT scores sent to AACOMAS.
Once students have certified and submitted their application and AACOMAS has received all required transcripts, the application enters the processing queue where the information will be verified. This process can take 6 – 8 weeks. Students are responsible for checking the status of their application to ensure it is error-free to avoid delays, which can result in missed deadlines.
There is a fee assistance program to help with the initial AACOMAS application.
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JUNIOR YEAR
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