How to Survive the MCAT's

The Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT or MedCAT) is a "make-or-break" exam that goes a long way to determining your future as a student in medical school. High scores make med school admission a near certainty; low scores decrease the odds dramatically. The preparation for the exam is as important as the exam. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Choose a pre-med curriculum. The MCAT covers all the basic sciences that are included in a solid pre-med course of study. There's nothing to stop a history major or a psychology major from sitting for the MCAT, but the preparation is far more intense.
2. Register for the test late in your junior year of college. Test scores are evaluated based on the completion of two-and-a-half to three years of undergraduate work.
3. Make a study plan. Create a three-month schedule and an outline for review with weekly goals. Evaluate your progress each week.
4. Take the practice tests under test-like conditions. An online question bank is an excellent study tool. Students report excellent test results from studying every single question in the online bank. Memorize the MCAT mnemonics. (See Resources.)
5. Bone up on test-taking skills. Study the art of the "educated guess."
6. Sign up for a prep course. Courses are available online, in a classroom setting, small group tutoring and by private tutor. Most test-prep companies guarantee results and are well worth the investment in your future.
7. Get in test taking shape. About three months before the exam, get in the habit of going to bed and rising at a regular time. Eat a healthy diet and workout to keep your mind sharp.

Tips & Warnings

• The Association of American Medical College, which administers the MCAT, now reports your full MCAT history. You want to take the exam just one time and maximize those results.