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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)? Required by all Medical Schools, the test is divided into four sections: Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Verbal Reasoning, and a Writing portion. Each section (except Writing) is scored out of 15. The Writing portion is graded by a letter, J through T. For example, a MCAT score might be 36-S.

What classes should I take before applying to Medical School? The MCAT challenges areas in the Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, and Verbal Reasoning with a writing sample given at the end.
Biology with lab (BIOL 115 & 117)
Inorganic Chemistry with lab (CHEM 115 & 116)
Organic Chemistry with lab (CHEM 235 & 236)
Physics (PHYS 101 & 102)
English (ENGL 101 & 102)
Calculus (MATH 155)
Biochemistry (BIOC 531)

When should I take the MCAT? It is advised to take it one year before prior to the date you wish to begin medical school but you must have the prerequisites before testing.

How many times is the MCAT offered each year? Since the MCAT has moved from paper form to computer, it is now offered 23 times a year. 2008 MCAT Test Dates.

Do I need clinical experience? It is important because it reemphasizes your decision to go to medical school as an ambition, and not just to do. Volunteering at your local hospital may not be sufficient because they have you do tasks very unrelated to medicine but it is a start. There are programs designed for premedical students, so that your time is not wasted. Job shadowing is an excellent way to gain insight on the medical field and a hospital’s environment. Other forms of volunteering may include working at a hospice or nursing home.

Is a degree necessary to enter Medical School? All medical schools require a baccalaureate (BA, AB, BS, or equivalent) degree, with rare exceptions.

Will I be at a slight disadvantage being a physics major when applying to Medical School? While most medical school applicants are science majors, a particular major is not necessary. A wide range of majors apply to medical school. Here is a list of various majors and their average MCAT scores.

Do I have to do research? Clinical experience? No, but doing research does help demonstrate motivation and scientific investigation towards learning. Many medical students have never seen inside a research lab, but some feel that with increased competition for medical school, research experience adds more meat to the resume.