Is a January Test Date Really So Crazy? The Pros and Cons

Session 315

A January test date might seem like a huge burden, but there are a lot of hidden benefits.

We’re joined by Noor from Blueprint MCAT. If you would like to follow along on YouTube, go to premed.tv.

Listen to this podcast episode with the player above, or keep reading for the highlights and takeaway points.

[01:57] January MCAT Test Dates: A Guide to Timing and Preparation

Taking the MCAT in January offers several advantages for aspiring medical students. This timeframe, typically spanning from January to March or April, allows students to complete relevant coursework before the exam. It also provides ample time for score retrieval and potential retakes without affecting application timelines.

By understanding the significance of a January test date, students can plan their preparation effectively and enhance their chances of success.

Preparing for a January MCAT can indeed be challenging due to the various semesters or quarters that students have to navigate. With the summer, fall, and winter terms intersecting, it can be overwhelming to balance coursework, extracurricular activities, and MCAT preparation simultaneously. However, by creating a well-structured study schedule and managing time effectively, students can overcome these obstacles and achieve their desired score on the exam.

[03:27] Mastering the January MCAT: Insights and Tips from Noor’s Experience

Noor, who took a January MCAT test date, shares her experience and advice for other students considering the same. She emphasizes the importance of assessing how much time you need to study and not being shy about extending your study period.

Noor acknowledges that stamina can wane over a longer study period compared to those who concentrate their studying over the summer. She suggests that taking breaks and maintaining momentum are crucial. Noor also mentions the benefits of interspersing full-length exams to stay on track and identify areas for improvement.

“One of the things about a January test day is you might feel like your stamina wanes.”Click To Tweet

As the last month and a half approaches, the intensity picks up, which can be challenging, especially with holidays and breaks. However, Noor highlights that the earlier months are dedicated to content review and practice, allowing the final month to focus on perfecting strategies and taking practice exams.

Despite the unconventional timing, Noor appreciates the opportunity to spread out her studying and enjoy more downtime without external expectations. She encourages students with the time and opportunity to consider a January test date.

[09:15] The Importance of Taking Breaks: Nurturing Mental Stamina during MCAT Prep

Noor emphasizes the importance of taking regular breaks, even during critical periods of MCAT preparation. She advocates for at least one break day a week, including holidays like Christmas Day, as it provides much-needed mental rejuvenation.

Noor acknowledges that taking time off may feel uncomfortable due to the pressure and guilt associated with the MCAT journey. However, she reassures students that a single day off will not hinder their progress. In fact, it can increase motivation and improve focus in the following study sessions.

Stamina may wane over a longer study period, but interspersing full-length exams helps to stay on track. Noor recommends incorporating these practice tests strategically to gauge progress and maintain momentum.

The last month and a half to two months before the January test day is crucial for focused studying. Noor advises students to prioritize this time for concentrated review and targeted practice, ensuring they are fully prepared for the exam.

Balancing December Challenges

December can be challenging due to holidays and potential burnout, but the studying is already frontloaded. Noor suggests finding a balance between study commitments and enjoying festive moments, allowing for both productivity and rejuvenation.

Taking a January test date allows for more downtime and less external expectations, providing the ability to focus and spread things out. Noor encourages students to take advantage of this opportunity by creating a study plan that incorporates regular breaks and self-care.

Overcoming the MCAT Guilt

'You're not taking a lot of time off. Have those conversations and give yourself the brake to rejuvenate.'Click To Tweet

Noor urges students to overcome the “MCAT guilt” that makes them feel bad about engaging in non-MCAT activities. Taking breaks and prioritizing self-care are crucial aspects of maintaining mental stamina throughout the MCAT preparation process.

[12:10] The Parallels of Mom Guilt and MCAT Guilt: An Insightful Comparison

Mom Guilt vs MCAT Guilt: The Pressure to Constantly Be Engaged

The phenomenon of mom guilt resonates with many mothers who feel the pressure to constantly cater to their children’s needs.

It’s as if any moment spent away from their kids is seen as a failure as a mother. Similarly, the guilt associated with preparing for the MCAT exam can be compared to this. Some students believe that they must be intellectually engaged with the material 24/7, fearing that any break or moment of boredom equates to falling behind.

In discussions with my wife, who is also a mother, we often reflect on this mentality. We’ve come to realize that constant stimulation is not necessary for our children’s development. Boredom can actually be beneficial. This realization draws an interesting parallel between MCAT guilt and mom guilt.

Balancing MCAT Prep and Application Work: The Interference Cycle

Many students initially aim for a January test date but often feel unprepared and push it back to March or even April. While I don’t mind a later test date, my concern lies in how it affects their application preparation. The conflicting demands of MCAT prep and application work create a cycle where one interferes with the other.

I often advise students to take a break from MCAT prep and focus on their applications. However, some hesitate, fearing that they won’t be solely dedicated to MCAT studying. Yet, I assure them that task switching and allowing their minds to shift gears is actually beneficial. It prevents the brain from being stuck in a constant MCAT mindset.

Embracing Breaks and Task Switching: Finding Balance in MCAT Preparation

Recognizing the similarities between mom guilt and MCAT guilt, it’s important to find a balance. Embracing breaks, focusing on different tasks, and understanding the value of diverse experiences can lead to more effective preparation and overall well-being.

Noor’s Perspective on MCAT Guilt and the Decision to Take the January Test Date

Noor responded to the discussion around MCAT guilt by sharing her perspective on pushing the test date to March. Initially, she had considered studying for an extra month in order to perfect her score. However, her family advised against it, reminding her that there would never be a point where she would feel 100% ready for the MCAT.

Noor acknowledged the vast amount of content and topics covered in the exam, mentioning that certain areas, like lenses, were particularly challenging for her. She admitted that even though she wasn’t 100% confident in all the topics, it was important to move forward and take the January test date.

Noor believed that after months of studying, it was crucial to start focusing on other aspects of life and the application process. She also mentioned the practicality of not continuously pushing the exam date, especially if one had to return to classes during the winter or spring quarters. Noor stressed the importance of having fresh strategies and study material in mind, ready to tackle the exam in January. She agreed with the notion of prioritizing completion and dealing with retakes if necessary at a later time.

[16:10] Navigating the Uncertainty: Noor’s Experience with the MCAT

Noor’s experience with the MCAT can be quite unsettling. Unlike regular classes where we have the opportunity to review everything, the MCAT presents a different challenge. It’s impossible to know every single detail and excel in every area. But that’s okay, because even in the field of medicine, no one knows everything perfectly.

'You are not going to know everything 100%. You're not going to be great at everything. And that's completely okay.'Click To Tweet

Noor’s father, who happens to be a physician, went through a similar experience when taking his board exam. Despite being experienced and having knowledge in internal medicine, he too faced the daunting task of not being able to review everything. Noor reassured him that it’s important to accept that you can only do your best with the knowledge you have.

Even the high achievers who score in the 520 range on the MCAT will tell you the same thing. They didn’t know everything before taking the exam. It’s about doing your best and being comfortable with the fact that you can’t know it all. Over time, as you continue your journey in medicine, you will gain more knowledge and confidence.

[18:16] Mastering Your MCAT Study Plan

Be honest to yourself.

When it comes to preparing for the MCAT, it’s crucial to assess your workload and be conscious of your class schedule. Take a moment to evaluate the classes you’re taking and the impact they will have on your time and energy. Realistically consider how much you can dedicate to MCAT preparation amidst your existing commitments.

Many students often fall into the trap of overestimating our capabilities. We create wish lists of study hours, but fail to account for the actual workload we face. Noor believes it’s important to be honest with yourself about how much time you can realistically allocate to MCAT studying, especially during busy periods like midterms and finals.

To effectively plan your study schedule, factor in those slower weeks when you have more time to focus on the MCAT. Identify the moments when you’ll be able to dedicate more energy to studying and when your focus may need to shift due to other academic demands. By mapping out your capabilities, you can optimize your preparation strategy.

Front-load your efforts.

Consider the possibility of front-loading your study efforts before the school year begins. This way, you can focus on reviewing content rather than relearning it throughout the rest of your study period. Use this time to hone your test-taking strategies, practice with sample questions, and complete full-length practice exams.

Stop procrastinating.

Remember, although you may have several months to study, it’s essential not to fall into the trap of procrastination. Avoid the mindset of thinking you have ample time to prepare and risk finding yourself in a panic come November without having started your prep. Stay disciplined and committed to a steady study routine from the beginning.

By carefully assessing your workload, mapping out your study plan, and maintaining discipline throughout your preparation, you’ll set yourself up for success on the MCAT. Stay focused, stay determined, and trust that your hard work will pay off in achieving a score that reflects your true abilities.

[20:21] Strategizing Your MCAT Prep: Balancing Priorities and Health

Successfully preparing for the MCAT requires careful consideration of your schedule and priorities. Take the time to analyze your upcoming five to six months. Identify when you can front load your preparation and recognizing the periods when you’ll be busier with school or other commitments. It’s crucial to factor in your uptimes and downtimes, understanding when you may have limited study availability.

To create a realistic study plan, scale back on extracurricular activities.

While we all wish we had unlimited time, it’s important to acknowledge the finite nature of our days. Consider reducing your involvement in non-essential pursuits. And focus on prioritizing your MCAT prep along with key activities such as shadowing or research projects.

Have open and honest conversations with your mentors or advisors about your capacity and make adjustments accordingly.

It’s crucial not to compromise your health.

Proper sleep, nutrition, and self-care are essential for your overall well-being and academic success. Avoid overextending yourself by trying to fit in excessive study hours without considering the impact on your physical and mental health. Be mindful of what truly sustains you and allocate your time accordingly.

'Do not compromise on your sleeping, or take time away from the things that you need to sustain.'Click To Tweet

Incorporate MCAT into your schedule.

If you’ve set your MCAT test date for January, strategically plan your preparation around that particular quarter or semester. Set yourself up for success by incorporating the MCAT into your schedule rather than treating it as just another extracurricular activity. Recognize its intensity and give it the focused attention it deserves.

By taking these steps and avoiding common hurdles, you can navigate the challenges of studying for the MCAT while being a full-time student or professional. Remember to prioritize your well-being, strike a balance in your commitments, and set yourself up for success on this demanding journey.

Finally, remember that there are no definitive right or wrong choices. It’s all about finding what works best for you. However, it’s crucial to carefully consider the potential consequences of your decisions, as there will always be outcomes, whether positive or negative.