For the MCAT, it is generally recommended to start studying at least 3 to 6 months before your test date, with most students dedicating about 300 hours total. The exact time to start depends on your test date, completion of prerequisite courses, schedule, study goals, and how much time you can commit weekly. For example, if you plan to test in January, starting your prep around August is ideal. If testing in April, starting in November is recommended to allow enough time for content review and practice.
Here are key points to consider with your start time:
- Complete required college prerequisites before starting MCAT study to avoid gaps in understanding.
- Assess your strengths, weaknesses, and schedule realistically—some students with strong backgrounds may start later.
- Allocate 3–6 months of preparation time, with 300+ hours for a solid foundation.
- If testing in spring (Jan–May), start about 5 months prior to the month you’re testing.
- Plan according to your medical school application timeline; taking the MCAT earlier allows time for a retake if needed.
- Many students start serious studying the summer before their junior year or early junior year in college.
In summary, depending on your test month and personal circumstances, aiming to start studying about 3 to 6 months ahead, ideally after completing your prerequisite courses, is the best strategy to be well-prepared for the MCAT.
