Session 26 In today's episode, Ryan and Rich discuss how to go about it when you’re considering to retake the MCAT as well as the minimum MCAT score required by different medical schools. As always, this question has been pulled out by Ryan and Rich from the forums over at OldPreMeds.org so they can bring the answers directly right onto you. OldPreMeds Question of the Week: Student is working full time and with two boys; took the MCAT for the first time in September (which is a bit late) and received scores in October; looking at schools they're interested in applying to but only one of them had a minimum percentile listed. MCAT score of 504 and trying to figure out what to do next. Here are the insights from Ryan & Rich: The ultimate rule for MCAT: Do not take the test until you are ready. When are you ready to take the MCAT: Having completed the prerequisites to have sound foundation in the basic sciences and other subjects for the MCAT Timing the exam Taking prep and practice exams Feeling confident to go in and take the exam How schools screen scores: Most schools don't have a specific minimum for the MCAT. When they screen the applicant, they don't really screen them. They may have a minimum screening to send you a secondary. Most schools may have a formula that takes your GPA and MCAT with a minimum score to review somebody or not. The reject review step: An application that does not make their minimum scores. Application is physically reviewed by somebody to check if there is any issue. What is the average minimum? 124-125 in each section should be considered about the minimum How do you succeed on the MCAT in this case? Consider quitting full time job and study for the test again full-time Include MCAT prep over a longer period Whatever method you pick, have a disciplined study routine Do not take the MCAT until you're ready. Make sure you're solid two weeks before the exam and ready to go. Ryan recommends using Cram Fighter that provides you with a study schedule to keep track and stay on task Major takeaway from this episode: Take the MCAT only when you're ready. You need to have your head game there or you will not do well. Have a plan. Links and Other Resources: www.cramfighter.com www.mededmedia.com