If you’re a high school student or an underclassman in college and already thinking about the MCAT, you’re ahead of the game—and probably starting to feel a bit overwhelmed. Maybe you have seen the different aspects of the exam, or considered watching MCAT prep videos. First off, I want to say I am so glad you are here and that you’re thinking ahead. But one question still remains: Is it too early to start prepping for the MCAT or thinking about your MCAT prep schedule?
The real answer is it might be too early to start studying, but it is never too early to start preparing for the MCAT. So let’s talk about what you can do now to set yourself up for success in the future.
When Is It Too Early To Study for the MCAT?
The MCAT is a content-heavy exam that covers subjects including general chemistry, biology, physics, organic chemistry, biochemistry, sociology, psychology, and critical reasoning. Most of this material comes from college-level courses. A little is covered in high school AP classes and/or freshman year general education courses.
If you haven’t taken most of these prerequisite courses yet, beginning MCAT preparation, like buying prep books or doing MCAT practice exams or questions, is probably not worth your time. You will miss key content, burn out early, or eventually learn things later with a stronger foundation of knowledge.
That being said, there are certainly things you can be doing right now that will make a huge difference when it comes time to start MCAT studying.
Further Reading
💻 What College Classes Will Help You on the MCAT?
🧐 I Haven’t Completed All My Medical School Prerequisites! Can I Still Start My MCAT Prep?
Keep Your MCAT Prep Schedule In Mind
We have established that you need to take the bulk of prerequisite courses before cracking open MCAT prep books. But long before you complete these courses, you should think about your timeline and MCAT prep schedule. If you are a freshman or sophomore in college, here is what I recommend as an MCAT instructor.
1. Get Familiar With What Is on the MCAT
The MCAT is divided into four sections:
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/Biochem)
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys)
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc)
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
2. Plan Your Coursework Accordingly
You will want to be almost or completely done with your premed science courses before starting serious MCAT prep, which usually includes the courses we listed above. The way schools schedule these courses can vary. So, make sure you can slot them into your schedule the way you hope to in advance.
3. Decide When To Take the MCAT
If you’re applying to medical school after your junior year, most students aim to take the MCAT by spring or summer of that year. This means you would begin studying for the MCAT in the fall or winter of your junior year. This is also a good time to consider whether you will fit the prerequisites in with enough time before your MCAT prep schedule, or if you might benefit from a gap year.
When Should You Actually Start Studying?
Most students begin dedicated MCAT prep four to six months before their test day. This gives you ample time for content review, lots of practice questions, and multiple full-length exams. However, it is important to note that MCAT prep schedules vary greatly from student to student. There is no one-size-fits-all for study plans. As noted above, studying before taking prerequisite courses can lead to gaps in understanding. Therefore, make sure you take as many of these courses as possible before dedicated MCAT studying begins.
Further Reading
🗓️ The Ultimate 6-Month MCAT Study Schedule
Prepping for the MCAT as an Underclassman
1. Focus On Truly Learning in Your Classes
I really cannot stress this enough. Your biology and chemistry classes are MCAT prep! So, do not just memorize facts to pass the next quiz. Try to understand the concepts and how different ideas connect together. It is truly crucial to build a strong foundation now, so your future self can breeze through content review and focus on MCAT-style questions.
2. Establish Good Study Habits
One of the best things you can do from day one of college is refine how you are learning. Get comfortable using active recall and spaced repetition methods. Try to break down complex topics when you get stuck. Good habits now will help you with MCAT studying and later in medical school, too! While you’re at it, start thinking about time management strategies and ways to work smarter.
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3. Read Regularly
The CARS section of the MCAT doesn’t test science content. Rather, it tests your ability to read, comprehend, and analyze texts. The best way to prepare is by reading challenging material now, including essays, philosophy, history, editorials, etc. Anything that forces you to slow down and think critically fits the bill here. Some students even work a philosophy course into their schedule, which can be helpful when it comes to studying for the CARS section.
4. Explore Medicine At Your Own Pace
.Don’t get so lost in thinking about the MCAT that you don’t make time for the other pieces of your application. Things like shadowing, volunteering, and premed clubs are very helpful experiences for you as a premed student.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that although it might be too early to start studying for the MCAT, it is definitely never too early to start preparing. In truth, the preparation begins with prerequisite courses and developing strong studying habits. Focus on building a strong foundation of knowledge and keep your long-term goals in sight!
And when it’s finally time to really get into MCAT prep, Blueprint MCAT will be here to help! Whether you need the flexibility of a Self-Paced Course, the instruction of a live 515+ Course, or the 1:1 attention of a private MCAT tutor, Blueprint MCAT has the MCAT prep option that works for your learning style!
