Mastering the MCAT: The new FREE MCAT Prep Resources from NextGenU.org with Preparation Tips, Common Challenges, and Essential Information

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is crucial in becoming a medical professional. This standardized, multiple-choice examination assesses problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts prerequisite to the study of medicine. To help you navigate this challenging exam, we've compiled a comprehensive guide with preparation tips, common challenges, and essential information.

Understanding the MCAT Exam

The current version of the MCAT exam, launched in April 2015, consists of four sections:

Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems

Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems

Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior

Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills

At NextGenU.org, we developed specific courses and curated a program that aims to cover the MCAT syllabus. These courses, which are free to the general public and listed under our Sciences courses, aim to mimic the MCAT so that students can understand the exam.

Below is a specific list of courses developed to help students prepare for health professions. The courses are mapped to the MCAT exam and can be a great study tool. Click here to view the MCAT Courses. You can read more about NextGenU.org’s FREE MCAT study program in this brochure.

• Intro to Algebra & Trigonometry,
• Intro to Statistics
• Intro to Sociology
• General Chemistry 1?
• General Chemistry 2
• Organic Chemistry 1
• Organic Chemistry 2
• Physics
• Biology
• Biochemistry
• Writing for Health Sciences—As of 2013, this is not on the MCAT exam, but it is still an essential skill as students have to write essays as part of their university applications.

Most U.S. and Canadian medical schools require MCAT scores for regular admission, and many do not accept scores older than three years.

Preparation Tips

• Start early: Prepare well to ensure you have ample time to cover all the necessary content and practice effectively.

• Understand the exam format: Familiarize yourself with the exam structure, question types, and timing to avoid surprises on test day.

• Review prerequisite courses: The MCAT exam tests content from introductory-level courses, including biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, first-semester biochemistry, psychology, and sociology. Ensure you have a strong foundation in these subjects.

• Utilize official MCAT resources: The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) offers a variety of official prep materials, including practice exams, question packs, and the "What's on the MCAT Exam?" content outline.

• Make use of other available resources: In addition to the official MCAT resources, consider utilizing other study material, such as online courses and study groups, and try contacting other people who have previously taken the MCAT exam.

• Create a personalized study plan: Develop a study schedule that works for you, taking into account your learning style, strengths, and weaknesses.

• Practice, practice, practice: Regular practice with MCAT-style questions and full-length exams is essential to build stamina, improve timing, and identify areas for improvement.

• Stay updated on official MCAT Info: The content and format of the MCAT can change over time. Keep updated with any changes by regularly checking the official AAMC website.

• Registration deadlines: Be aware of the registration deadlines for the MCAT. Registering early can ensure you get your preferred test date and location.

• Test day logistics: Plan your test day logistics in advance. Know the location of the test center, what time you need to arrive, and what you need to bring with you.
• Test-taking strategies: The MCAT tests your knowledge and test-taking skills. Learn strategies for answering multiple-choice questions, such as eliminating incorrect answers and guessing when necessary.

• Maintaining motivation: Studying for the MCAT is a long-term commitment, and it can be challenging to stay motivated. To keep your motivation high, set small, achievable goals and reward yourself when you reach them.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Time management: The MCAT exam is lengthy and requires efficient time management. Practice pacing yourself during study sessions and mock exams to develop a sense of timing.

• Stress and anxiety: Preparing for the MCAT can be stressful. Incorporate stress-management techniques, such as meditation, exercise, and self-care, into your routine.

• Content gaps: Identify your weak areas and focus on strengthening your understanding of those topics through targeted studying and practice.

• Burnout: Avoid burnout by setting realistic goals, taking regular breaks, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

• Eye-Strain: in its entirety, the MCAT exam is 7 hours and 30 minutes long, inclusive of breaks and on-boarding before the exam begins, this lengthy exam is completed solely on the computer and it is proven that prolonged computer use, can cause eye strain, which leads to an increased chance of developing an injury. To overcome this challenge, it is recommended to schedule periodic rest breaks to avoid eye fatigue. Incorporating the use of the 20-20-20 rule as a guide: Every 20 minutes, look away to an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Keep your eyes moist, by blinking or using artificial tears, to prevent them from drying out.

Essential Information

• Testing limits: You can take the MCAT exam three times in a single testing year, four times over two consecutive testing years, and seven times in your lifetime. Voiding your exam or not showing up on test day counts toward your attempt limits.

• Score reporting: Medical schools see all your exam scores, but taking the exam more than once does not put you at a disadvantage. However, it's important to prepare thoroughly before each attempt.

• Accommodations: If you have a condition that requires modifications to the standard testing conditions, you must apply for accommodations through the MCAT Accommodation Services.

• Testing environment: The MCAT exam is administered in a quiet, reduced-distraction environment. Familiarize yourself with the testing conditions and permitted items to ensure a smooth experience on exam day.

By understanding the exam format, utilizing effective preparation strategies, and being aware of common challenges and essential information, you can confidently approach the MCAT exam and maximize your performance. Remember that every student’s MCAT journey is unique, and oftentimes, what works for one person may not work for another; as result, it is important to understand your own learning style and needs and curate your own learning program, using these tips give, remember to incorporate self-care routine to keep yourself destressed. Good luck from all of us at Next GenU on your MCAT preparation and in your medical journey!

Link to the official MCAT website:?

https://auth.aamc.org/account/#/login?goto=https:%2F%2Fmcat.aamc.org%2Fmrs%2F

Link for registering for the MCAT Exam:?

https://students-residents.aamc.org/taking-mcat-exam/taking-mcat-exam

Author: Tenika Foster