MCAT Information

For more general information about the MCAT:

visit: http://www.aamc.org

or call: (310) 337-1357

How Important is the MCAT?

1. Supplemental to your academic record
2. If there is a significant difference between yor test score and your academic record, question will likely be raised determining your admission. Many times if your academic record is superb, the school will offer an interview in hopes of clearing up the discrepancy.
3. If your academic record is superb and you score low on the MCAT, you may want to consider re-taking the test after significant prepartion so that you can overcome the uncertainty that the interviewer may have about your ability to handle the academic demands of medical school.

MCAT Contents

Verbal Reasoning (85 minutes)

A 500-600 work text is presented. Medical schools will look for a response addressing the following:

1. Comprehension of the essence of the text
2. Utilization of the information from the text
3. Determination of the validity of the information of the text
4. Integration of new data on the context of that which is in the text

Physical Sciences (100 minutes)

Seeks to measure an applicants' comprehension of basic concepts and problem-solving ability in physics, chemistry, and math.

Writing Sample (60 minutes)

Given a one-line statement of a policy or opinion on a topic that can come from broad-range of issue-asked to write two 30 minute essays. The response should be thoughtful, detailed, and logically expressed. The applicant is presented with 3 tasks:

1. Provide an in-depth interpretation of the meaning of the statement
2. Provide a detailed rebuttal of the point of view expressed in the statement
3. Demonstrate how one can resolve the statement and the opposing viewpoint that was offered

Biological Sciences (100 minutes)

Topics of molecular biology, cell structure and function, genetics, and evolution as well as the organization of the body systems. Topics in organic chemistry is covered in 77 questions because it forms the bases or many biological (biochemical) reactions.

Prepartion General Guidelines

1. Familiarize yourself with major topics that need to be mastered for each subtest.
2. Begin to study on subjects that you are most knowledgeable and comfortable with.
3. Do prelimenary review of material to identify areas of weakness and address them if they are causing anxiety (which can impede your preparation and attainment of your goal).
4. Try to master data within the context of a logical "framework" instead of just isolated data.
5. Determine the most successful study techniques for you.
6. Understand the information fully before committing it to memory (un-learning incorrect memorized material is not very effective. It usually creates confusion on the day of the exam).
7. Don't allow your physical or mental well-being to be compromised (take breaks- you'll learn more and be more effective).
8. Success will be determined by retention of the material (meaningful info; in its context is retained longer than non-meaningful info.)
9. A good night's sleep after intense study is important. REM (dream sleep) has been shown to consolidate long-term memory, thus enhancing retention of the information.