Award-Winning MCAT Test Prep in Pittsburgh, PA

When it comes to getting quality Pittsburgh MCAT prep, Varsity Tutors can be of great assistance. If you plan on getting into the field of medicine, then you've probably begun to study for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The score on this exam is a factor in being admitted to the medical school of your choice. It's important to perform well on this test because it shows the admissions board that you're ready for the coursework of medical school.

The MCAT has four sections, and it'll be one of the bigger challenges to help you get into a school such as the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. If you're thinking of taking this test, a Pittsburgh MCAT prep course could be just the extra help you need to improve your understanding of the MCAT. Or perhaps you've considered working with a Pittsburgh MCAT tutor privately. In either case, Varsity Tutors can help you find the resource that works best for your test preparation.

What does Pittsburgh MCAT prep cover?

The MCAT consists of four different sections: Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems, Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills, Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior.

It's a standardized, computer-based, multiple-choice test. You'll receive five scores: one for each of the four sections and one for the total combined score. Each section is scored from 118-132. The total combined score is from 472-528. Within the test, each section may contain experimental questions that don't affect the final score. Most medical schools in the U.S. do require MCAT scores with your application.

The Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems section gives you 95 minutes to answer 59 questions. Within this section, you'll have 10 passage-based sets of questions and 15 independent questions. Students should keep in mind that they may be tested in different subject areas from general chemistry, organic and inorganic chemistry, introductory physics, introductory biology, and basic biochemistry. It could be helpful for them to review concepts such as the mechanical, physical, and biochemical functions of human tissues; chemical reactions, and the periodic table.

The next section is Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills. You'll have 90 minutes to complete 53 questions. In this part of the test, you'll have to answer 9 passage-based sets of questions. Students should refine their knowledge of verbal reasoning, reading comprehension, and analytical skills. Those skills can be helpful when going through passages and deducing different compositional elements.

The third section is Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems. You'll have 95 minutes to complete 59 questions in this part of the test. On this section of the MCAT, you'll answer 10 passage-based sets of questions and 15 independent questions. Students should be aware of different topics in biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. This can help them in understanding how living things adapt to the environment.

The last section tests you on Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior. You'll have 95 minutes to answer 59 questions in this section. Part of this section has 10 passage-based sets of questions (4-6 questions per set) and 15 independent sections. Students should be mindful to study subjects in biology, introductory psychology, and introductory sociology. They should always be aware of different concepts regarding cultural and social differences that impact a person's well being and behavioral changes in people.

What are the benefits of different styles of Pittsburgh MCAT prep?

Two of the ways students get ready for this test are prep courses and private tutoring. Varsity Tutors can help you find an option for either. Each choice has its own set of benefits, and some prospective medical students choose both methods in order to become more well-rounded. Here's a deeper look into these two methods.

Maybe an MCAT class caters to your needs. We can help enroll you in an interactive online course. This virtual classroom can help you connect with an instructor to prepare for your MCAT. You may also find it convenient that you can choose either a two-week or four-week class, depending on your weekly schedule. A Pittsburgh MCAT prep class is also great as it allows you to study wherever you feel most comfortable.

These classes focus on more of a collaborative method to retain your knowledge of the subject matter. It can be helpful to participate in group discussions as you cover the makeup of the test. Also, you can request one-on-one time with the instructor to help you clarify the concepts you're having trouble understanding.

If one-on-one sessions are more your speed, then you could have sessions with a private academic mentor to help you study for your MCAT. The advantages of getting a private instructor include customizing a program that's a perfect fit for your studies. With many people in a classroom setting, it may be hard for instructors to get to all of your questions and concerns. By being able to spend time with you getting to know your goals, your instructor can create a study plan that caters to your learning style.

An instructor can be more attentive to your needs. Working with a private instructor gives them the opportunity to find out the method in which you prefer to study, your strengths and areas of opportunity, and the best way for you to be taught the review material. Also, they can help you develop some test-taking techniques for increased efficiency on certain parts of the MCAT.

How can you find MCAT review in Pittsburgh?

Varsity Tutors can offer you help to find the study method that's right for you to help you get ready for the MCAT. It can be very helpful in knowing what type of review will best suit your needs. If you're deciding between a course that'll fit your weekly routine or the right instructor for private sessions, we can give you options for your Pittsburgh MCAT preparation. For more information, contact us for details on how you can get started with your review to prepare for the MCAT.