Expert Q&A: Is it too much to study as well as prepare to apply to med school all at once?
Super Admin
👑During our last AMA with experts @lilyharrington and Rohit Gupta, MD, a community member asked, "Would it be overburdened to study as well as prepare to apply to med school, for example, personal statements, recommendation, letters, applications, etc.?"
Here's what MCAT Tutor and Instructor, @lilyharrington, had to say:
"It depends. I was in school full-time, working part-time, and working in a lab while still getting eight hours of sleep most nights. I took my MCAT the same semester I applied to medical school. I applied early decision to the University of Kentucky, which isn't for everyone and is a very personal decision. Applying early decision meant I only had to apply to one medical school, which worked out well for me. However, I took a lighter course load that semester. Whether it's too much to study for the MCAT and apply to medical school simultaneously depends on your other obligations. If possible, try to finish your MCAT before applications open in early May. If you can do that, you'll have time to focus on your personal statement while waiting for your MCAT score, since you can't submit your application until late May or early June. The exact date varies each year."