With 24 test administrations to choose from in 2008,
some MCAT test takers may feel like they've got lots of time
before they should begin prepping for the MCAT. However, quite
the opposite is true. Because there are so many choices, MCAT
test takers have to be even more diligent in their preparation
and time management.
Here's why:
- Med School application
timelines have NOT changed – Students can begin
submitting med school applications in early June. Students who
take the MCAT in January or April will have scores back in time
to submit a complete application on the opening day. Since most
medical schools work on a rolling admissions basis, the sooner
you can submit a complete application, the better chances you
have, all else being equal.
- Flexibility with test
dates – Because there are so many test date
choices, the sooner you begin your MCAT prep the better
prepared you'll be if your plans change and you have to switch
test dates or locations.
- Retest if necessary – Prepping for and
taking the MCAT in the first half of the year allows time to
retest if necessary and still submit a full application by the
close of the application cycle in October. Kaplan recommends
only taking the MCAT once, but many students take the exam
early to leave the retest option open later.