The Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) is an entrance exam used by medical schools throughout the United States. Information and online application can be found at www.aamc.org/students/mcat. You should begin reviewing and preparing for the MCAT before making formal application to take the test!

Beginning in January 2007, the MCAT will be delived as a computer based test with multiple test days each year. On-line registration opens 6 months prior to the test date and it is advised to register at least 2 months before the test. In 2007 the MCAT will be offered 22 times and will be available in January, April, May, June, July, August and September. The closest testing center to USU is in Salt Lake City.

Students often ask "When is the best time to take the MCAT?" The best time to take the MCAT is as soon as the necessary background courses have been completed and a thorough review of MCAT study materials has been made. Taking the spring test ensures that scores will be returned early for timely application to medical school. These same scores will also be available to medical schools for early screening and evaluation which could be to your advantage. It must be understood that any advantage in taking the spring test is lost if you have not properly prepared.

Experience has shown that, overall, the best preparation for success on the MCAT is consistent high performance in the necessary biology, chemistry, physics, math, and English classes listed on the Department of Biology's Prehealth Professions Program Requirement Sheet.

The prehealth professions advisor can suggest supplementary courses that may help to enhance your performance on the MCAT. It is possible for many students to take classes spring semester and still prepare for the spring MCAT. However, for other students, study and review throughout the summer for the fall MCAT may be to their advantage. You should consult with the prehealth advisor early to determine which testing period may be best for you.

Most medical schools honor your MCAT scores for two to three years from the testing date. Some students actually take the summer MCAT and use the scores for the following year's application period. This provides them with an opportunity to thoroughly prepare during the summer break for the fall MCAT.

The MCAT organization can provide you with various study materials and sample tests at a nominal cost. These materials should be ordered directly from them, well in advance of the time you intend to take the MCAT. Private commercial MCAT study materials, sample tests, and preparation courses are also available. Some firms now offer MCAT preparation programs for use on a personal computer. In addition to specific MCAT preparation materials, students should acquire and study specific subject matter concepts in commercially produced review guides: College Inorganic, Organic and Biochemistry; College Biology; and College Physics. These guides are available at most college bookstores. There is also a campus review course offered every spring for one credit, pass/fail, taught by undergraduates (BIOL 1750, ST: MCAT.)

The MCAT may be repeated a maximum of 3 times per year but you can only register for one exam at a time. There is no specified waiting period between exams.