<p>I just took my first diagnostic MCAT test and scored PS 7, VR 8, BS 7, WS not scored. I didn't know at the time that the writing would not be scored though so it wasn't like I just sat there and relaxed until the biology section came around. Combined 22.
I have not had physics since high school and I have not yet taken organic chemistry so some of my score on BS and PS is due either to luck or reading ability for better or worse.
I am a little uneasy though because my VR score is so low and I am worried about the fact that my score is pretty significantly below the average. I just started preparing for the MCAT but it would be encouraging for people to post advice (I know read the sticky, don't worry I have) and perhaps a little assurance based on their scores that a jump in the VR is possible.
Thanks everyone and good luck on your own efforts!</p>
<p>Kaplan says that the average improvement is about 10 points; 9 to be conservative; split three ways, that translates to about three points on each section. An 11's not a bad score at all.</p>
<p>I scored a 28 on my Kaplan Diag (highest in my class; the mean was a 20) and went up 12 points on the real thing. A 22 is amazing diag score, given that you have yet to take physics and orgo. VERY impressive.</p>
<p>A little below national average? Honey, the average person, after MONTHS of studying for the MCAT, gets a 24. You're merely 2 points below - and again, after taking HALF of the pre-req classes.</p>
<p>Lastly, the MCAT is testing how well you take the MCAT (you're fooling yourself if you think it's content-based science), so practice practice practice!</p>
<p>What diagnostic test are you talking about? Everyone is making the assumption that it is a Kaplan test, or at least that it's not an AAMC test. </p>
<p>If it is a Kaplan diagnostic, answer this question. Is it better marketing to have an easy diagnostic test where the average score is high and most every test-taker feels confident in their abilities, or a a very hard test that puts the fear of the MCAT in you so you'll pay almost $2K for a course? Additionally , think about their score improvement guarantee, LOL. It's best for them to have you score as low as possible.</p>
<p>Take an AAMC test as a diagnostic. It's the only way to get a ballpark baseline. </p>
<p>D scored a realtively high score after 10 hrs prep after freshman year and scored a few points lower with zero prep after soph year. Let's just say the lesson hit home. ;)</p>
<p>As always, JMO.</p>
<p>You'll be ok...</p>
<p>I took the Kaplan Diagnostic in February and got a 23, so had the exact same feeling. I took a few AMCAS practice tests after studying modestly for the last four months, and score consistantly between 31-33 (taking the exam July 8). I'm hoping to break 35 before test day, but my verbal score is very slowly on the rise. I'm keeping my fingers crossed :)</p>
<p>I took Kaplan's class because I qualified for financial aid to take the class half price. It was worth what I paid for it because it kept me reviewing even when my schedule was crazy, but I'm not sure I would do it if I had to pay the full cost.</p>
<p>I didn't realize that AMCAS posts quite a few practice tests in the computer based format (Kaplan made it sound like the only way to get access to computer based tests was through its service).</p>
<p>Anyway, I think it's a good thing that you'll be taking the exam right after taking orgo...it will be fresh in your head! (It's amazing how much you can forget in a year).</p>
<p>Well, it wasn't from Kaplan. I am trying to create a structured program for myself without paying nearly $2000 to Kaplan or Princeton Review. I just can't afford their programs. I am going to look into though taking all of the AAMC practice tests after doing some review and trying to learn Physics and Organic Chemistry.</p>