The MCAT is known to be a lengthy and challenging exam, but understanding its structure and knowing what to expect on test day can make a big difference. When I first took the MCAT, I thought I was prepared, but on the day of the test, I realized I was wrong. I got there on time, but I didn't know where to park, which made things more stressful. I brought some water for the scheduled breaks, but I realized too late that I should've packed more snacks for energy. My anxiety doubled, and I felt like I wouldn't make it through the day. I wish I had a well-planned test day routine to help manage my anxiety and maximize my performance which is why I created an MCAT test day checklist to help out students be fully prepped for the day of the exam.
The MCAT Time Commitment
The second time I took the MCAT, I did much deeper research. So here are some things I should've also considered preparing for the MCAT:
- The total time commitment for the MCAT, including breaks, is around 7.5 hours.
- Since the exam consists of four timed sections, each would last approximately 90-95 minutes.
- Another thing to consider is the time allocated for non-scored tasks. While these tasks aren't scored and don't directly impact your results, they do factor into the total time commitment for the MCAT test day. These tasks are:
- Introductory Tutorial: This usually lasts for 18 minutes before the actual test begins. This tutorial familiarizes you with the testing interface, navigation tools, and answer format. So even though it's not scored, it's still important to pay attention to get comfortable with the platform.
- Void Question Survey: At the very end of the exam, you'll encounter a non-scored survey question. This question asks if you want to "void" your MCAT score. Keep in mind that if you void your MCAT score, it essentially becomes a "blank slate" for that particular test date. Additionally, voiding still counts as one of your lifetime attempts at the MCAT. So I wouldn't really recommend voiding your score.
Key Takeaways
- Before You Arrive: Focus on the day before the exam, including getting a good night's sleep, eating a healthy breakfast, and packing all necessary items according to AAMC guidelines.
- Upon Arrival: Learn what to expect at the testing center, from ID verification and palm scanning to familiarizing yourself with the testing center layout and procedures.
- During the MCAT: Discover strategies for managing the exam itself, including pacing yourself, handling difficult questions, and using breaks effectively.
- After the MCAT: Explore strategies to unwind and move forward, including relaxing after the exam, celebrating your accomplishment, and focusing on the next steps in the medical school application process.
Your MCAT Test Day Breakdown
Focus on the Day Before (Before You Arrive)
If there is one thing I want you to remember, it's "Getting ready for test day actually starts the day before." Here are some things you should consider preparing:
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: This is important for your brain to function well and remember things. Trust me, it's gonna be a game changer! Being well-rested boosts your focus, concentration, and mood, which helps reduce anxiety and improve performance. Not enough sleep can mess with your memory and critical thinking during the exam.
- Healthy Breakfast: The next morning, eat a nutritious breakfast with complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. My breakfast on test day was oatmeal with nuts and fruit, and whole-grain toast with avocado and eggs. Smoothies with spinach, fruit, and protein powder are also great options, especially if you're an on-the-go type of person.
- Pack Necessary Items: Make sure you pack all required items according to AAMC guidelines to avoid a last-minute panic attack. Make sure you have your ID, water, snacks, and any other essentials.
- Plan Transportation: Find the perfect parking spot or plan your transportation to arrive early. This avoids last-minute stress, like what I experienced during my first take.
What to Expect at the Testing Center (Upon Arrival)
If it’s your first time taking the MCAT, there are some things you might want to expect. This can help lower your stress and help you focus on doing your best.
Check-in Process
- ID Verification: Upon arrival at the testing center, you will be required to present a valid, government-issued photo ID. I suggest you have this already prepped in your bag the day before the exam just to be sure. This step is important for verifying your identity.
- Palm Scanning: During my first time, this made me feel like I was in a movie, but it’s really just a security measure to prevent imposters or proxy test-takers from taking the exam on someone else’s behalf. You will undergo a palm vein scan to further confirm your identity. This biometric check will be used each time you re-enter the testing room after breaks.
- Photograph: A photograph will be taken as part of the check-in process to make sure that the individual who arrives at the testing center matches the registration details. By having a photographic record of each test taker, the AAMC can help deter cheating or unauthorized access to test materials.
- Room Layout: If you check in early, and it’s your first time taking the MCAT, I suggest taking advantage of this. Testing centers typically have a specific arrangement for computers, often set up in rows or around the edges of the room to minimize distractions. Desks are usually equipped with necessary materials such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor.
- Noise-Canceling Options: If you’re someone who is easily distracted by noise, then you’re in luck. Many centers provide noise-canceling headphones or earplugs. It’s a good idea to practice with these at home to decide which you prefer.
- Scratch Work Materials: You will be given a laminated spiral notebook and a couple of fine-tip markers for scratch work. I made use of this specifically for physics questions and sometimes even chemistry-related questions. These materials are designed to be sufficient for note-taking throughout the exam.
- Familiarization: The pre-test tutorial is a valuable tool for familiarizing yourself with the testing software, interface, and functionalities such as highlighting and navigating between questions. This can help reduce anxiety and increase efficiency during the test.
- Make the Most of Your Time: Even if you’re familiar with the testing interface, use this time to get into the right mindset and feel comfortable before starting the exam.
- Skipping the Tutorial: While some students might choose to skip the tutorial to save time, I highly recommend using it, especially if it’s your first time taking the MCAT. It can be a game changer for familiarizing yourself and getting an idea of how to properly approach the exam.
Focus on Managing the Exam Itself (During the MCAT)
The MCAT is indeed a full-day commitment, involving several hours of testing with scheduled breaks in between. Understanding the structure and preparing accordingly can help you manage this long and challenging day effectively.
Remember Your Practice Tests and Strategy:
Pacing yourself during the MCAT is crucial to make sure you can tackle all the questions within the time limit. Proper pacing helps you maintain a steady flow, avoid rushing at the end, and evenly distribute your effort across all questions. Here are some strategies I used to stay focused, even with tough questions:
- Mark and Move On: If you hit a tough question, don’t spend more than a minute on it. It’s better to move on than to waste time second-guessing. Mark the question, make an educated guess if you can, and keep going. This way, you’ll get through all the questions and can come back to the tricky ones if you have time.
- Educated Guessing: Use the process of elimination to narrow down your options, make your best guess, and move on to avoid wasting time on one question. This way, you can maximize the number of questions you attempt. If you want to learn more about this strategy, check out my MCAT Preparation Courses. They include an AAMC breakdown course where instructors walk you through each AAMC question step-by-step to find the best answer.
- Review Strategies: Use any remaining time at the end of each section to review marked questions. This second look can help you catch mistakes and rethink tough questions with a fresh perspective. Just be careful not to overdo it. Allocating time for review can boost your score, but second-guessing everything won’t help.
Break Schedule:
Planning and using your breaks effectively can help maintain your energy and concentration levels throughout the exam. The MCAT is structured to include scheduled breaks, allowing you to rest and recharge during the long testing day. Here’s the typical break schedule:
- First Break: 10 minutes after the Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems section.
- Second Break: 30 minutes after the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section, which is usually the lunch break.
- Third Break: 10 minutes after the Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems section.
It’s important to note that the actual time you get to rest is slightly less because you must factor in the time required for check-out and check-in procedures.
Effective Use of Breaks:
- Plan Your Breaks: Know what to do during each break to maximize the short time. Use the restroom, eat a quick snack, hydrate, and stretch to relieve any physical tension.
- Mind Your Time: Be aware that the sign-out and sign-in processes can eat into your break time. The procedures involve ID checks, palm scanning, and possibly waiting in line if others are ahead of you. This can reduce your 10-minute break to around 7-8 minutes in reality.
- Healthy Snacks and Hydration: Bring easily digestible snacks such as granola bars, nuts, or fruit to keep your energy levels stable. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that might make you feel sluggish. Hydrate, but be mindful of not drinking too much to avoid frequent restroom trips.
- Mental Focus and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing techniques like deep breathing, positive self-talk, or quick mental breaks during allowed times can keep your concentration sharp. Practicing mindfulness or short meditation sessions, even for 2-3 minutes, can also help improve focus and reduce anxiety.
Strategies to Unwind and Move Forward (After the MCAT)
After months of intense preparation and finally taking the MCAT, it's important to let yourself relax and unwind. Here are some great ways to celebrate and de-stress:
- Engage in Your Hobbies: Whether it's reading a book or playing a musical instrument, diving back into hobbies you might have set aside can be incredibly rejuvenating. For me, I love binge-watching, so after test day, I made sure to have some personal time with my favorite Netflix series.
- Physical Activity: Exercise is a great way to relieve stress. Activities such as yoga, running, or even a casual walk can help clear your mind and boost your mood. I got into this hobby while prepping for the MCAT, and it’s something I’ve continued because it helps me feel more positive and clear-headed.
- Socialize: Spending time with friends and family can provide a significant emotional boost and help shift your focus away from the stress of the exam. I cut off a lot of time with friends during my preparation, so reconnecting with them was something I really needed.
- Plan a Day Out: Treat yourself to a day out doing something you enjoy, like visiting a museum, going to a concert, or exploring a new place.
- Have a Special Meal: Go out for a nice meal at your favorite restaurant or cook a special dinner at home to celebrate your hard work.
- Take a Short Trip: If possible, plan a weekend getaway to relax and recharge away from your usual environment.
By focusing on these activities, you can productively channel your energy post-MCAT while also giving yourself a well-deserved break. This balance will help maintain your momentum towards achieving your goal of getting into medical school.
FAQs
Can I skip breaks to finish faster?
While it might be tempting to skip breaks to finish faster, taking breaks is crucial for maintaining focus and stamina throughout the exam. These breaks help you rest, recharge, and reduce stress, ensuring you perform at your best during each section.
What can I bring with me during breaks?
During breaks, you can bring snacks and drinks to help keep your energy levels up. Make sure to pack easily digestible snacks like granola bars, nuts, or fruit, and stay hydrated with water. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that might make you feel sluggish.
How long should each break be?
Each break should be used effectively, so I recommend using most, if not all, of the break time. The first break is 10 minutes, the lunch break is 30 minutes, and the final break is 10 minutes. These breaks help you stay refreshed and focused.
Will I have time to use the restroom during the sections?
You won't have time for restroom breaks during the timed sections, so it’s best to use the restroom during the scheduled breaks. The check-in and check-out procedures during breaks will slightly reduce your rest time, so plan accordingly.
What if I need more break time due to a medical condition?
If you need more break time due to a medical condition, it’s important to contact the AAMC for special accommodations. They can provide the necessary arrangements to ensure you have the time and support you need during the exam.
Final Thoughts
Getting ready for the MCAT is key to having a smooth and successful test day. By focusing on the day before, knowing what to expect at the testing center, managing the exam effectively, and having ways to unwind afterward, you can tackle this challenging day with confidence.
Start by getting a good night's sleep and having a healthy breakfast. At the testing center, be prepared for the check-in process and get familiar with the layout and procedures. During the exam, pace yourself, use breaks wisely, and stay focused. After the exam, take time to relax and celebrate your hard work.
For more tips and strategies, follow us on social media at @30daymcat and check out our MCAT test day checklist to get ready and be fully prepped for the MCAT.
