7 Common Misconceptions About MCAT

Your journey to building a successful medical career starts with acceptance in a reputable school of choice. Passing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a must. With that, this article lists some of the most common misconceptions about the latter, which will increase the chances of passing.

1. You Have Unlimited Chances

A lot of people assume that MCAT offers unlimited chances, but that isn’t the case. You must take the exam only once you are ready. In a lifetime, you only have seven chances to take the test. You can take it only three times in a single year and four times in a two-consecutive-year period.

2. Only Your Scores Matter for Admission

Your MCAT scores will impact your chances of medical school admission, but this isn’t the only deciding factor. Most schools will consider different factors, such as your experience, transcript, and demographics, among other things. Even if you have performed well in the admission test, this isn’t a guarantee that you will get into the best medical schools.

3. You Cannot Practice Early

Some people think that it is best to take an MCAT practice test only a few weeks before the exam so that things will be fresh in their memory. However, it is best to practice as soon as you can. By studying early, you will be learning more things. You are giving yourself more time to prepare for the exam.

4. Registration is Possible Anytime

MCAT registration is not open year-round. There are only three registration dates – November, February, and May. You need to register on those months depending on when you would like to take the actual exam. In total, there are 31 dates for the exams.

5. Time is Unlimited

Before taking the MCAT, take note that you do not have the luxury of time. There are 53 to 59 questions. You only have 90 to 95 minutes to complete each section of the exam. Do not be pressured beating the time as you might be unable to think straight. While being mindful of the time limit, see to it that you read every question thoroughly.

6. There is a Magic Score

Stop aiming for a specific score, thinking that this is the number that will get you into a medical school. The truth is that different schools will have varying requirements. Do not be too preoccupied with the scores but do your best to have as many correct answers as possible.

7. It is a Measure of Intelligence

Many assume that the MCAT is a measurement of one’s intelligence. The test is more than that. It gauges your diligence. It shows how interested you are in becoming a doctor and the things that you are willing to endure. Because the exam is long, it is also a test of patience.

Do not be a victim of false assumptions about the MCAT! The more you know about the test, the higher is the likelihood of passing.