Old MCAT or New MCAT test?

WayOutWestMom
Mon, 21 Oct 2013 10:26:09 +0000

RE: AP classes

Be careful in assuming med schools will accept AP credits in lieu of actual coursework–even if its recorded as credit on his transcript. Many schools will accept some (usually in math), but not all will accept science AP credits or will expect higher level coursework instead of intro level classes. This is especially true in CA.

RE: MCAT this summer.

I don’t think it will hurt his chances if he does well. At worst, he’ll just have to take the 2015 MCAT.

But if he doesn’t score well on it or if he scores well on the old MCAT but not as well on the new version….it can hurt his chances a great deal.

Either scenario makes him a bigger than necessary admission risk since for the STEP [USMLE] exams unless a student actually fails the exam, he’s not allowed a retake. And a failed USMLE, even if he score very well the second time–closes so many doors in specialty and residency choices.