MCAT for medical studies abroad

Updated on: Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Medical schools in the U.S. award the MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree after four years of study. Before practice, the candidates should complete the necessary training. Only the candidates who have completed undergraduate study with the specified subjects and have scored good marks or grade point average are admitted to medical schools. Further, they should prove their suitability for medical studies through MCAT scores (Medical College Admission Test). The schools should b e accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME).

Graduates from accredited medical schools can take the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination).

MCAT

MCAT scores are considered as part of the admission decision process in medical schools. The MCAT is a programme of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). It comprises a standardised examination that consists of three multiple-choice sections and a writing assessment. Its purpose is to test the skills and knowledge that medical educators and physicians have identified as key prerequisites for success in medical school and the practice of medicine. Most medical colleges in Canada also accept MCAT scores. Nearly 70,000 students sit for the test every year.

MCAT tests the mastery of basic concepts in biology; general and organic chemistry; and physics. It also assesses the capacity for problem solving, critical thinking and general writing skills. The four sections in the test are physical sciences; verbal reasoning; writing sample; and biological sciences.

•Physical sciences and biological sciences

The physical sciences section evaluates problem-solving ability in general chemistry and physics. The biological sciences section assesses problem-solving ability in the areas of biology and organic chemistry. Each section contains seven passage-based sets of questions and 13 independent questions. Each passage-based set consists of four to seven questions. The questions estimate our knowledge of concepts and our ability to solve problems using these concepts. They do not test our capacity to remember scientific facts.

•Verbal reasoning

This section assesses our ability to grasp, evaluate and use information and arguments presented. The test consists of seven passages, each of which is nearly 600 words long, taken from humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. Each passage-based set consists of five to seven questions, assessing our ability to extrapolate information from the accompanying passage. Each multiple-choice section may cover some experimental items that do not count for our score.

•Writing sample

This consists of two 30-minute essays, each addressing specific topics. They measure our skill in developing a core idea; blending concepts and ideas; presenting ideas cohesively and logically; and writing clearly, following rules of grammar. (Only the quality of a first draft is expected.)

The topics do not assess subject-matter knowledge in biology, chemistry or physics; the medical school application process; reasons for the choice of medicine as a career; or social and cultural issues not in the general experience of college students.

Time frame

Physical sciences – 70 minutes (52 questions)

Verbal reasoning – 60 minutes (40 questions)

Writing sample – 60 minutes (2 questions)

Biological sciences –70 minutes (52 questions)

Total content time – 4 hours, 20 minutes

Total time including tutorial, breaks, non-disclosure agreement, void questions and survey would be 5 hours, 20 minutes

The MCAT is administered throughout the world. The usual centres in India are the following:

Maini Sadan, 1st Floor, No. 38 Lavelle Road, 7th Cross, Bangalore – 560 001

Marwah House, Saki Vihar Road, Andheri East, Mumbai – 400 072

DLF Infinity Tower - A, Sector 25 Phase-II, DLF City, Gurgaon – 122 002

We can register for MCAT through the online programme hosted by the AAMC ( www.aamc.org). The regular registration deadline is 14 calendar days prior to the test date. However, it is better to register early. We can take the exam in the year in which we would apply for medical schools. Medical schools may accept scores dating back to two or three years. This has to be confirmed by the school of our choice. The fee for international registration would be $ 290. Current rates may be checked before payment, which can be made through credit card (MasterCard or VISA).

The AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service), a centralised application processing service of the AAMC, makes the process of applying to participating medical schools easier and m

MCAT for medical studies abroad

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