<p>I'm currently finishing off sophomore year in university, and am planning on applying to med.</p>
<p>However, I have gotten sadly lost admist all the gossip/rumors/tales of MCAT... so a few questions, to all you more-wise/knowledgeable persons out there (who are kind hearted enough to give a few pointers!)</p>
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<li><p>I have gotten the Examcrackers and Kaplan study guides. Do I still need to register for one of those lecture sessions? Are the lectures actually worth it (did they help much)? I tend to doze off/daydream in class, so am I advised to register for those courses? </p></li>
<li><p>When should I plan to take the MCAT? This year, or next?</p></li>
<li><p>Is there any helpful study plan for the MCAT? I know that for SAT, I started studying for the verbal parts early on, and practiced writing essays once a day. Does the same apply for the MCAT?</p></li>
<li><p>Any secret tips/advice for doing well on the MCAT?</p></li>
<li><p>What is the competitive score for a top medical school? (Analogous to the 2300's on the SAT for the Ivy's...)</p></li>
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<p>Hello. As a high school student I am not qualified to perfectly answer your questions, but I will answer based on what I have read up until this point.</p>
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<p>Enrolling in a course certainly is not necessary, particularly if you feel much more motivated while learning at your own pleasure. They are also terribly expensive. Many pre-medical students choose to take one not for the instruction, but if they feel that they lack the self-discipline and initiative to complete a self-study regimen.</p>
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<p>Usually, it is best to take the test directly after you have completed each of your introductory science courses (Physics, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biology). The summer after sophomore year is probably best and a four-month period of preparation is usually recommended.</p>
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<p>There is a wealth of information on these topics [url=<a href=“http://■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■/]here[/url”>http://■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■/]here[/url</a>]. There is a fair amount of MCAT advice collected on CC but certainly not to the extent as that documented at studentdoctor.net. Usually, that forum attracts a far greater proportion of those who are immediately involved in issues pertaining to medical education.</p>
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<p>A 36 (12 per section) is usually considered competitive. Alongside a 3.8+ GPA and four years of research experience, that will usually provide you with multiple offers if you apply to a large volume of schools.</p>
<p>If you haven’t already, consider bringing your inquiries to the Student Doctor Network.</p>