Now that you have successfully graduated with your undergraduate degree in a medical-related field, it is time to take your skills to the next level and apply to medical school. Taking the MCAT is the first step in applying your medical knowledge and getting into medical school.
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What is the MCAT?
You may be asking yourself, what is the MCAT? MCAT stands for Medical College Admission Test is a computer-based standardized exam that all prospective students must take before applying to medical school. The test is administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and the scores range from 472 to 528.
This test is designed to assess problem-solving, critical thinking, written analysis, and knowledge of scientific concepts and principles. You will be tested on your knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts and principles.
How Should You Study for the MCAT?
You should register far enough in advance that you allow yourself plenty of time to prepare and study for the test. Begin by investing in the best study guide materials and books. Next, know your test date and set up a study guide and timeline so you know what to study and when to ensure you cover all areas that will be presented on the exam. Also, allow enough time to go back and review the areas you struggle in.
What is the Best Way to Prepare for the MCAT?
One of the best ways to prepare for the MCAT is to sign up for a prep course. Test prep courses can be taken online or in-person and are a great way to develop study strategies and learn test-taking tips.
Another option is to find a study group through a local school, listed on a bulletin board or through an online search. Attending a study group could lead to you finding a study partner that you can meet with in-between study groups to get in extra practice. During these study groups or one-on-one study sessions, make sure to take plenty of practice tests to get you ready for the MCAT.
How to Determine What Medical School is Right for You?
The first step in finding your ideal school is doing the research. If one or two schools stand out, plan a visit to them. While visiting the school, make sure to set up a meeting with the admissions office so you can learn about the application process.
You can also meet with professors at the school to find out about the academic structure, the classes you will take and what you can expect when you are in medical school. While visiting potential medical schools, you should meet with current students as well as alumni so you can ask them questions about the school and medical program.
Tips for Succeeding in Graduate School
Before you begin graduate school, you must know what to expect. Medical school is time-consuming, so you need to be prepared to be extremely busy. This will require long days of classes, late nights of studying, and not much free time for yourself. Invest your time wisely by having a study schedule and set up study groups with your peers.
While in medical school, it is never too early to start networking. The more people you know, the easier it will be to find a job down the line. You should sign-up to volunteer at a local clinic to get experience or take an internship in a medical-related field. The more exposure you have to the different medical fields, the easier it will be for you to narrow down the area you want to focus on.
If you are invested in becoming a doctor, you already possess some of the natural characteristics that one must possess to succeed in the medical field. Being fully prepared before entering graduate school to become a doctor requires a lot of preparation for you to take your skills to the next level.
