<p>So I was really dumb and signed up for the April 24 mcat way too late and there are no spots left in California (on any of the open days in fact) and so I signed up for one in Washington. Others are urging me to just take it in early June. My question is, if I take it in early June won't I be at a disadvantage when applying? I know many applications are rolling so wouldn't it be better to be able to submit my applications earlier? Or is there more of a disadvantage to taking the test out of state and potentially being tired/too stressed?</p>
<p>Dina, no brainer, take the April test date. June is WAY too late, your testing site doesn’t mean squat.</p>
<p>Having a score when applications open is quite important. Delay in starting the app will put you at a disadvantage which means April date is very much the one.</p>
<p>That’s what I thought, thanks. I guess I’ll just keep checking to see if anyone’s dropped in california.</p>
<p>You’re a Calif applicant. Taking the MCAT in June is way toooooo late.</p>
<p>I’m going to be in the minority here, but I’d suggest you re-think taking the test in Washington. Unless you’ve got some sort of existing support system there(e.g. close relative w/whom you get along very well) it would be a major undertaking to get there and get a hotel and get around and then take the test. I’m a firm believer that the main, and if possible only stress on test day be the test. Too many stressful variables with the major travel to Washington and making all the arrangements.
And yes, June is late, but what is the rest of your application like? Good GPA/ECs/research/shadowing, etc, etc? It’s my hope that something comes open in California for you; the MCAT is enough of a pain without the added travel worries.</p>
<p>If a much earlier Calif date opens then take it. Otherwise, the Wash date isn’t bad if the student is used to doing some alone travel. Ideally the student arrives at least the day before, figures out the test location, gets a good night’s sleep and takes the exam. If it’s a noon test time, that could be more ideal. </p>
<p>Calif is just too crazy (too many applicants ) to be a “late” test taker.</p>
<p>My gpa is mediocre at best, so the MCAT really matters to me. I’ve already booked a flight and I specifically chose this location because it’s 20 min from the airport. I know it’s not ideal, but I’m trying not to let it bother me (but yes, I’ll be checking every day to see if something in California opens up :/). Thanks for the tips.</p>