The MCAT tests students' knowledge of the three major science disciplines: biology, chemistry, and physics. Students should have completed at least one year each of general biology and physics and two years of chemistry before taking the exam. In addition to covering content that will be tested on the MCAT, these classes are also generally required by most medical schools.
Students typically apply to medical school about 12 months before they plan to attend, and it is important to ensure that their scores will be available before schools start reviewing applications. Scores become available to both students and schools 30 days after the test date, so if students are applying in September, they should take the MCAT no later than May or June. This will allow ample time for a retake, if necessary, while still meeting application deadlines.
Performing well on the MCAT requires plenty of preparation. Whether students choose to enroll in a prep class, form a study group, or prepare alone, it is recommended to begin studying at least four months before the exam. One recommended study plan is to spend an hour a day reviewing with textbooks from previous science classes and then take a practice test two times a month. Students need to take into consideration other obligations, like work and school, and register for a test date that will leave them with ample study time.