The MCAT is fundamentally changing beginning in 2015, and that brings up two big issues that you should start thinking about now.

1. What’s different about the 2015 MCAT? Read about the 2015 changes here.
2. Should you take the MCAT in 2014 or 2015?

Choosing between a 2014 and a 2015 MCAT test date is not a trivial decision because the changes to the 2015 test are so big that preparing for the 2015 test will be a totally different than preparing for the current test.

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Here’s the best piece of advice I can give: Don’t make the mistake of taking the MCAT before you’ve taken the foundational courses (Bio, Chem, Ochem, Physics) that are covered by the MCAT. For example, if you haven’t yet taken more than one course of Chemistry or Physics, it’s a bad idea to take the MCAT in 2014.

Why will some premeds take the MCAT too early? They’re afraid of the unknown. To them, they would rather chance it on the current MCAT than take the scary new 2015 MCAT. Bad idea.

Should You Take the MCAT in 2014?

If you’ve finished nearly all of your medical school pre-requisites and you’re planning to apply in 2014 or 2015, take the MCAT in 2014. Read more about the top four ways to study for your upcoming test.

Another reason why you should take the MCAT sooner rather than later: Getting the MCAT out of the way by taking it the summer before you apply frees up your final academic year and makes for a much less hectic application process. More info on the best MCAT study schedules.

Should You Take the MCAT in 2015?

If you’re planning to apply 2016 or later, you will be taking the 2015 version of the MCAT. You don’t really have a choice, and that’s ok. By the time you take the test the MCAT prep community will have created lots of resources for the new test.

You should take the MCAT in 2015 if you won’t be ready for 2014. So if you haven’t taken your foundational courses by Spring 2014, you should wait to take the 2015 MCAT. Even though it’s a new test, you’ll have the foundational knowledge you need to earn a high score.

A Prep Option That Covers 2014 and 2015 MCAT

Whether you’re planning to take the MCAT in 2014, 2015, or later, The MCAT Club gives you what you need to be prepared for any version of the test. Club Members meet with me and other MCAT experts weekly and get access to over 350 hours of MCAT videos. Join the club today and come to our weekly Monday meetings at 4pm pst.

Join my online MCAT prep community and get 350 hours section review videos!

The MCAT Club gives you access to more than 350 hours of MCAT videos, and other prep resources. It's an affordable, self-guided MCAT prep program that will help you master the science sections.

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