MCAT

Before beginning your MCAT prep, it’s important to set up your study environment, identify the resources that best fit your schedule and timeline, and determine how in-depth your content review needs to be. Most students follow a 3–6 month study schedule, but timelines can look different for everyone. Balancing your coursework, job, extracurriculars, and everyday life can be challenging while preparing for the MCAT. This is one of the most important exams on your journey to becoming a physician, so staying organized and motivated is essential. Check out my pre-med planner (coming soon!) to make managing your time just a little easier.

When deciding when to start studying for the MCAT, consider when in your pre-med timeline you’ll be able to study most effectively and efficiently. Whether it’s during a summer break, a gap year, or alongside a full course load, each option has its pros and cons. Ideally, you’d be able to make studying your main focus, but that’s not realistic for everyone. I’m currently studying for my MCAT while working a full-time job and continuing my extracurriculars, so I know how tough it can be to balance it all. The key is to find a study plan that fits your schedule and commitments without burning you out. When building your timeline, also decide whether you’d like to study one subject at a time or rotate between them. I recommend keeping some overlap between subjects to maintain consistent exposure. You’ll have a better sense of when to schedule your actual exam once you begin studying and can gauge how your timeline feels.

Having “study accessories” that make studying more enjoyable—or at least more tolerable—is key to staying consistent and engaged. Whether that means investing in a comfortable desk chair, buying an Anki remote, or stocking up on your favorite snacks for breaks, find what helps you focus best. Personally, I love using an Anki remote (there’s a cheaper version on Amazon!)—it makes going through endless flashcards much easier and even a little fun. Finding a good study space, like a quiet coffee shop or a cozy home office, can also make a huge difference. Ultimately, find what makes studying for one of the toughest exams you’ll ever take just a bit easier for you.

There are countless free and paid MCAT resources online, but it’s important to research them carefully—some claim to be accredited or reliable when they’re not. I recommend sticking to trusted sources, such as those from the AAMC, or those highly recommended by peers and mentors. You may never feel completely ready to take the MCAT, but getting it done is a huge accomplishment. Whether you achieve your dream score or need to retake the test, you’re still one step closer to your goal!