The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) at a Glance
Here are a few quick facts about the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT):
- It's required for all medical school applicants.
- Your score is given considerable weight by admissions committees.
- The test is long, more than four hours.
- It's offered several times a year.
- It has three sections:
- Verbal Reasoning;
- Physical Sciences (General Chemistry and Physics);
- Biological Sciences (Biology and Organic Chemistry);
The Morris Pre-med Advising Committee offers the following tips:
- Take the exam by June of the calendar year you will apply to medical school (the summer after your junior year, for example, if you plan to apply the fall of your senior year).
- Complete the Morris recommended coursework and, in addition, allow several months for review.
- Form study groups.
- Use the MCAT preparation texts available in bookstores, and take practice exams (see below).
You’ll find comprehensive information about the exam, including practice tests, at the MCAT webpage. Be sure to download and read the ‘MCAT Essentials’ booklet. Important note: A completely new, revamped version of the MCAT will be in effect starting in 2015. See the MCAT webpage for details, and check the recommended coursework page for courses that should be completed before attempting the new exam.
