The
Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) is a
standardized, multiple-choice examination required
of all students applying for admission to medical
school. The test is designed to assess problem-solving,
critical thinking, and writing skills. The content
of the examination is taken from the topics
covered in the prerequisite courses for medical
school.
The test is comprised of four
sections: Physical Sciences, Verbal Reasoning,
Writing Sample, and Biological Sciences. According
to the American Association of Medical Colleges
(AAMC) admission officers use the exam to predict
success in medical school, to determine a students
strengths and weaknesses, and to compare students
from different colleges and universities. Scores
on three academic subtests (Physical Sciences,
Verbal Reasoning, and Biological Sciences) range
from 1-15. The scores on the three scores from
the subtests are added to determine the composite
score. The writing sample consists of two thirty
minute essays.
Almost all medical schools
require applicants to submit MCAT scores during
the application process. Most schools do not
accept scores that are more than three years
old. Applicants should refer to the Medical
School Admission Requirements (MSAR) for information
regarding MCAT requirements and average scores
of accepted applicants at schools of interest.
Beginning in
2007, the MCAT is converting to a computerized
testing format. There will be 22 administrations
on 18 different days throughout the year
at Thomson Prometric testing labs all over
North America and select sites in Europe,
Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East.
The computerized version will offer many
benefits over the paper/pencil versions of
the past including more frequent administrations,
morning and afternoon sessions, a shorter
test day, and reporting of scores within
30 days. Registration for the computerized
MCAT typically begins four to five months
prior to the actual test dates. Regular registration
runs from the published opening day until
two weeks prior to the test date. Late registration
runs from the end of regular registration
until one week prior to the test date. Applicants
should be aware that seats are limited at
each testing lab and students are encouraged
to apply early. Registration is only allowed
for one test session at a time. Online registration
and information about the MCAT is available
at http://www.aamc.org/mcat/cbt.htm.
|
| Students
are strongly encouraged to schedule a test
date during the spring of their junior year.
In order to be eligible to use the services
of the LSU Premedical/Predental Review Committee
students must take the test no later than May
31. |
