If you’re looking to get into the best colleges in the country, you’re not alone; there are plenty of others out there who share the common aspirations! However, as we all know, MCATs can be tricky and often lead us feel like we’re never going to make it because of difficulty level of the examination. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with this blog post that will tell you everything about MCAT preparation guide. So sit back and enjoy reading our helpful guide on what’s new and how to prepare for it!
Every year, students worldwide take a standardized computer based exam called MCAT. We’ve compiled some helpful tips for you on what to expect and how to prepare! Find out in our Filo – MCAT blog post as we break down from how many sections there are to recommended preparation guides to scoring information.
What is MCAT?
The Medical College Admission Test is an entrance test which students are required to give so as to get admission in medical schools in the United States, Australia and Caribbean Islands. In a year, the test is conducted 25 times in 21 countries. Also MCAT is designed by the Association of American Medical Colleges and dealt by Pearson VUE.
MCAT Exam Pattern 2022
Currently the exam consists of four sections that are scored individually. The test time allotted is either 90 or 95 minutes and candidates are required to attempt 50 to 60 questions. The exam lasts for 7.5 hours including the breaks.
| Time | Total number of questions | |
| Physical and chemical foundation of biological system | 95 minutes | 59 |
| Critical Analysis and reasoning ability | 90 minutes | 53 |
| Biological and biochemical foundation of living systems | 95 minutes | 59 |
| Psychological, Social and Biological foundation of behaviour | 95 minutes | 59 |
Physical and Chemical foundations of biological systems requires understanding of organic and inorganic physics and chemistry as well as biology and biochemistry. This portion focuses mostly on the physical principles underlying biological processes and chemical interactions forming the basis of a broader understanding of living systems. Knowledge of research methods and statistics are also important to successfully reason through the material.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Ability is quite similar to verbal reasoning sections including passages with questions testing reading comprehension. The passages including 500-600 words covers topics ranging from social science to the humanities, Sometimes it is required from reader side to consider what is written from multiple perspectives. Topic included in this section is unfamiliar but success in this section depends on using information from this passage without using previously known knowledge.
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of living systems mainly tests biology and biochemistry but understanding of organic and inorganic chemistry is also demanded. Questions related to functions of biomolecules, biological system organization and processes that are unique to living organisms are mostly asked. Knowledge of research methods and statistics are also important to successfully reason through the material.
Psychological, Social and Biological Foundation of Behaviour tests psychology and sociology in a way that students can establish their understanding of the behavioural and socio-cultural determinants of health. Behaviour and behaviour change, perceptions of self and others, social and cultural differences influencing well-being and social stratification are included under specific tested material. Knowledge of research methods and statistics are also important to successfully reason through the material.
Don’t Miss out on the Important MCAT dates here : MCAT Exam Dates 2022: The Complete Guide!
MCAT Important New Update for 2022
Under new MCAT exam, not only the content of the exam is changed but also the way in which content has to be presented is also changed. Examinees will demonstrate four scientific inquiry and reasoning skills which are identified as MR5. The first skill which is knowledge of Scientific Concepts and Principles requires candidates to recognize and recall scientific information along with identifying relationship between similar concepts. Scientific Reasoning and Problem Solving tests student’s ability to relate scientific theories and formulas to explain findings and drawing conclusions. Reasoning about the Design and Execution of Research focuses more on understanding science in the context of experiments. The last skill of Data based and Statistical Reasoning expects students to be able to read graphs and tables and derive conclusions from evidences.
| SECTION | DURATION | TYPE OF QUESTIONS |
| Agreement of Examinee | 8 minutes | |
| Tutorial (Optional) | 10 minutes | |
| Physical and Chemical foundation of Biological systems | 95 minutes | 10 passage based questions(4-6 questions each set) and 15 independent questions |
| Break (optional) | 10 minutes | |
| Critical Analysis and Reasoning ability | 90 minutes | 9 passages (5-7 questions per passage) |
| Mid- Exam Break (optional) | 30 minutes | |
| Biological and Biochemical foundation of Living Systems | 95 minutes | 10 passage based questions(4-6 questions each set) and 15 independent questions |
| Break (optional) | 10 minutes | |
| Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behaviour | 95 minutes | 10 passage based questions(4-6 questions each set) and 15 independent questions |
| Void questions | 5 minutes | |
| Satisfaction survey | 5 minutes | |
| Total Time | 6 hours 15 minutes |
How to create a study plan for MCAT exam 2022?
Create your customized study plan and even though this only includes a relatively small portion of your preparation time, but greatly impacts the results. Our expert tutors can help you create a personalized study plan based on your requirements. Contact our experts via the Filo App Now!
Now with this study plan in place, make sure to study, practice and follow this vigorously. This step may consume majority of your time, depending on how prepared you are when you start your preparation. We also encourage you to set aside time to take mock tests under similar testing conditions and evaluate your readiness.
Remember, every step will depend on your level of preparedness and the time you have for the preparation and practice.
To know more about the exam, click here: MCAT 2022: Eligibility, Application, Exam Pattern, Syllabus & All You Need To Know
Recommended Reference Books for MCAT test prep
| Book Name |
| Barron’s New MCAT By Barron’s |
| Princeton Review MCAT Subject Review Complete Box Set, by The Princeton Review |
| MCAT Practice tests, by Sterling Test prep |
| Secret study guide, by MCAT Exam Secrets test prep team |
| MCAT Complete 7-Book Subject Review 2018-21, by Kaplan’s |
- Aspirants can refer to the plenty of material for the exam which is provided by AAMC.
- Online tutorial and video lectures are there on official site of AAMC which can be used by the aspirants so make their bases strong.
- Students can take various mock test and sample paper for MCAT for preparation purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the maximum length of MCAT prep time?
Most students will require 10 to 15 hours per week for atleast four to six months to study for the MCAT. In total, one should study for the MCAT for at least 200 to 300 hours.
When should a student take the MCAT in preparation for the 2022 cycle?
Between January and April of your application year, you should take the MCAT for the last time. If a student wants to start medical school in August 2023, for example, you’ll need to take the MCAT within the first four months of 2022- no later than April 2022.
How far back the MCAT scores is accepted by the Medical Schools?
Each school is different but mostly the schools accept the scores from tests taken 3 to 5 years ago.
Will medical school be aware if I void my exam?
Medical Schools do not keep this record of exams you chose to void or no-show. Medical schools only have access to the exams you decided to score. Note, voids or no-shows count as an attempt towards your testing limits.
Summing Up!
Remember, if you ever get confused, don’t be afraid to ask our excellent teachers questions by downloading the Filo App now!
We hope you have benefitted from the information on this blog. Please share your thoughts about the MCAT Preparation Guide by commenting down below!
