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If you are interested in studying for the MCAT in a convenient virtual classroom, Varsity Tutors can place you in a San Diego MCAT prep course today. The MCAT, or Medical College Admission Test, is a standardized exam that applicants to the majority of medical schools in the United States (including local schools such as the University of California San Diego School of Medicine) are required to take. The test is rigorous, but a good score could help you differentiate yourself from all of the other applicants.
Test prep is important, and a San Diego MCAT class could be a great way to build your study skills heading into the exam. Our live virtual platform facilitates face-to-face interaction over the internet, making you feel like you're attending a physical class without the logistical hassle of a commute. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of this service.
What topics might I go over in a San Diego MCAT course?
The MCAT is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam that consists of four sections. Each section is scored on a scale from 118-132, and your four section scores are added together to produce a final score from 472-528. Any section may contain unscored experimental questions that will not affect your score. The exam has a total testing time of six hours and 15 minutes, though you will be seated for approximately seven and a half hours, including breaks. Here is a closer look at what you can expect on each section of the MCAT.
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
This section consists of 10 sets of passage-based questions plus 15 independent items. Some of the topics covered include how tissues, organs, and organ systems work in the human body; basic biochemistry, organic and inorganic chemistry, and the role of physics in bodily systems. You are also expected to know how to read the Periodic Table of Elements. You have 95 minutes to answer 59 questions on this section.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
This section contains 53 passage-based questions divided between nine different passages. Unlike the rest of the test, items on this portion of the exam are more English-related than science. Passages are drawn from the humanities (such as literature or history) and the social sciences (like economics or sociology), but you aren't expected to have any prior knowledge of any of these areas. Instead, your reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, and analytical thinking skills are put to the test. More specifically, you'll need to draw inferences based on what you read, identify how new information could affect the meaning of a passage, and apply the information you've learned in different contexts in order to succeed. You have 90 minutes to answer 53 questions on this section.
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
This section follows the same basic format as the first section, containing 10 sets of passage-based questions followed by 15 stand-alone items. Some of the subjects covered include how an organism's cells work together at the micro-level to achieve macro-level processes such as growth and reproduction, how organisms respond to stimuli, and how organisms go about acquiring the energy and materials they need to survive. You will again have 95 minutes to answer 59 items on this portion of the MCAT.
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
This section also follows the standard formula of 10 sets of passage-based items followed by 15 independent questions, producing a total of 59 questions over a testing session lasting 95 minutes. Some of the topics in this section include mental health, how behavior impacts health, introductory psychology, introductory sociology, and the relationship between social stratification, access to resources, and overall well-being.
What are the benefits of taking a San Diego MCAT course?
Every San Diego MCAT course is taught by a teacher who has been vetted by Varsity Tutors, so you know your instructor will be a great communicator with extensive knowledge of the exam for you to draw upon. Since you can communicate in real time, asking for help is as easy as raising your hand. Your instructor is also available for private discussions outside of your normal meeting time if you feel that you need help with a particular concept.
Many students downplay the benefits of having others in the classroom. For example, working with your new friends can help you develop a more comprehensive understanding of the concepts on the exam. If somebody else comes up with a mnemonic device to remember the biochemistry behind the human heart, they can share it with the rest of the class. Likewise, you can explain something to another student to reinforce your own understanding of the topic. You also save money, as you are splitting the cost of instruction with everybody else in your class to make your San Diego MCAT class more affordable.
On a test that lasts over six hours, intellectual endurance is also an important skill to work on. You might want to look into the possibility of taking a practice test under realistic test-taking conditions to get your brain accustomed to focusing for so long. Taking practice exams can also help you build a familiarity with the test's electronic interface, potentially mitigating any test anxiety you're experiencing. If you're still a little nervous, your instructor may demonstrate meditation techniques you may use to calm your nerves during the actual exam.
At Varsity Tutors, we understand how valuable your time is. We can set you up in classes lasting either two or four weeks to make it easier to find something that works for you. There are also new classes starting every week, so it's always a great time to jump in and start pursuing your academic goals.
Can I sign up for a San Diego MCAT course today?
Simply utilize the contact info on this page to reach out to an educational consultant who can walk you through how to select the San Diego MCAT class that makes the most sense for you. Varsity Tutors would be delighted to answer any questions you may have!
Aaron: San Diego MCAT course instructor
I just recently graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology and a minor in chemistry. I am in the process of applying to medical school. I enjoy teaching others what I have learned. In my free time I like to watch sports and spend time with friends and family.
Education & Certification
- San Diego State University - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- SAT Math
- Geometry
- Algebra 2
- +26 subjects
Cody: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...and patient approach to guide students. Whether it be a review session before a big exam or building an educational foundation for success, I will work with students to actualize their goals. Although I'm new to this platform, with hundreds of hours of tutoring experience, I am confident we can work together effectively. I graduated from UC San Diego with my bachelor in Biology and am in the process of applying to medical school. As...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Math
- SAT
- Middle School Math
- +22 subjects
Anouchka: San Diego MCAT course instructor
Hi everyone! I am a young professional and I used to work as a business consultant for clients active in different sectors (pharmaceutical, facilities, financial, etc.). I am flexible and positive, I like to learn and share. My biggest hobbies are travel, photography and sports.
Education & Certification
- Universit Catholique de Louvain - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business and Managerial Economics
- Universit Catholique de Louvain - Master in Management, Business and Managerial Economics
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Algebra
- Finance
- ACCUPLACER ESL - Listening
- +25 subjects
Tyler: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...Since graduating, I have applied to medical school and have gained acceptance. Prior to graduating, I have tutored at a private tutoring company near UC Davis for 2 years. Through this experience, I proven effectiveness in teaching subjects ranging from Elementary math and Common core, to Algebra and Pre-Calculus, as well as Chemistry, Biology, Reading, and Writing. Out of these subjects, I believe that helping students build a strong foundation in Math and Science are...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Davis - Bachelor of Science, Neurobiology and Behavior
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Languages
- Pre-Algebra
- AP Japanese Language and Culture
- +37 subjects
Hafid: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...school, where I began tutoring junior high students in math. Since then, I have helped students (including medical students doing hospital rotations) succeed in academics. I have improved a lot in my teaching methods and make each session high energy and interactive. Most recently I did a pediatrics internship at UCSF-Fresno, but with my background in the biotechnology industry, I'd like to go back into research. I enjoy math almost as much as Biology/Medicine and...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Los Angeles - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
- University of California-San Diego - Doctor of Medicine, Medicine
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Graduate Test Prep
- Geometry
- SAT Mathematics
- +18 subjects
Caroline: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...School of Medicine with the long term goal of a career in academic medicine. My teaching experience includes volunteering to tutor low income students as well as TA'ing for several introductory biology classes at Caltech. I was also a Dean's tutor in subjects such as biology and chemistry. Currently, I tutor in MCAT preparation for all three sections. I enjoy teaching all subjects, but I am most passionate about topics relating to biology, chemistry, and...
Education & Certification
- California Institute of Technology - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Elementary Math
- Advanced Placement
- Multivariable Calculus
- +51 subjects
Lixian: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...degrees so far, 1 in mathematics and 1 in biology. I taught undergraduate math and biology courses when I was a graduate student, and tutored privately since college years. I enjoy teaching kids and adults of all ages, especially for more advanced topics/subjects/standardized tests. I'm interested in helping people and passionate about education! I have my own teaching methodology and approach that will be tailored to the learner's specific needs and issues. I have great...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelors, Biology, General
- California State University -San Marcos - Masters, Math
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- DAT
- GRE
- Competition Math
- +104 subjects
Ian: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...ECFMG certification, I can help someone simplify science in a less complicated way. Having almost 10 years of education has forced me to simplify all science. I would be honored to help high school students, future scientist, medical students, US medical graduates, and International medical graduates as well. I am especially helpful in memorizing anatomy human parts, simplifying biochemistry, biology, and microbiology. One of my strength is helping students who are foreign medical school graduates...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelors, General Biology
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Physiology
- College Biology
- Pathology
- +25 subjects
Education & Certification
- K N T University of Technology - Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering
- University of Massachusetts Amherst - Doctor of Philosophy, Electrical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- GMAT
- GRE
- +115 subjects
Max: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...hopefully matriculating into medical school fall of 2016. I have done extensive coursework in biology, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, trigonometry, calculus, psychology, sociology, and lab sciences. I have also recently taken the new MCAT and believe that I can teach my tools for success to any pre-student willing to learn them. I have been a teaching assistant for both General Chemistry I and II for two semesters each and have taught CPR, AED, First Aid to...
Education & Certification
- University of Utah - Bachelors, Exercise and Sports Science
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- PCAT
- College Chemistry
- Honors Chemistry
- +29 subjects
Clara: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...school, I tutored for the SAT as well as teaching swimming lessons for over four years, so I am very confident in my ability to make complicated topics understandable. My favorite area is standardized testing. I love the look on a student's face when they realize that they don't have to be nervous about an exam - that it can actually be really fun if the questions are viewed as the simple patterns they really...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- College Biology
- College Algebra
- College Essays
- +44 subjects
Matt: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...Masters program at Georgetown University in human physiology. Given the amount of schooling I have gone through myself, I have taken a wide range of subjects and more standardized tests than I would like to admit. I have taught students of almost every age in various fields such as elementary science, Hebrew, chemistry, MCAT prep, and many more.. My ultimate plan is to go to medical school, but in the meantime I try to teach...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Public Health concentration in Immunology and Infectious Disease
- Georgetown University - Masters, Biophysics and Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- SAT Reading
- Biology
- +85 subjects
Timothy: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...and completed an honors thesis for the political science department. I took one gap year between UCLA and medical school where I worked in a Neuroscience and Biophysics Research Lab while TAing (teaching assistant) for several biology courses including LS 2, LS 4, and LS23L (Cells, Tissues and Organs, Genetics, and Intro to Biology Lab). I currently attend Drexel University College of Medicine where I am in my final year of MedU al school currently...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Los Angeles - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
- Drexel University College of Medicine - Current Grad Student, M.D.
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- College Chemistry
- Graduate Test Prep
- ACT
- +48 subjects
Benjin: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...things out without a lot of explanation. In most things, I'm not that guy! Like many students, understanding comes with repetition of principles and hard work. I have the perspective of a student trying to understand, not a teacher trying to preach. I love working with people from the ground up; we start at the comfort zone and work our way to improvement. I know I don't know everything, so I'm excited to learn as...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University - Current Undergrad, Biophysics
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Organic Chemistry
- MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
- Chemistry
- +16 subjects
Lee: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...I'm a laid back individual, but I like to push my students. I know that every student is able to do well and I really enjoy helping them along their path to success. But being laid back, I am also good at relaxing a student and helping point out what is important and what is not. In my free time, I enjoy writing music. I am also a die hard Packers fan originally being from...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Engineering
- Northwestern University - Master of Science, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Test Prep
- ACT
- College Chemistry
- +41 subjects
Mihir: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...and drives me to continue tutoring. I specialize in tutoring for standardized tests, including the MCAT, GRE, SAT, and ACT, and have scored in the 99th percentile on the MCAT, SAT, and ACT. I also tutor the sciences and can cover all science topics up to advanced college-level chemistry and biology. As a science major and experienced tutor, I understand that the sciences pose unique and varied challenges to students. One of my primary goals...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Current Undergrad, Chemistry - Biochemistry Track
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- General Chemistry
- Homework Support
- Anatomy
- +57 subjects
Andrew: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...test taking strategies and specializes in pre-medical, medical and general science exams. He has a wealth of experience as a tutor and formerly worked as an instructor for The Princeton Review MCAT prep course, in which he taught 11 courses across 4 cities and received excellent reviews. Anyone looking for a complete, well-rounded tutor who can coach students for short- and long-term success will find Andrew to be a good fit for their needs.... I believe that anyone can be a successful learner and a skillful test-taker. I try to coach my students to think like the test-writer and see beyond the content of the question. Using my strategies, students will be able to successfully answer questions regarding topics of which they have no knowledge. I then combine these strategies with common sense examples to make the educational objectives stick. My students know me for my love of the subjects I teach, my meticulous organization of the material, and my dedication to helping each individual achieve their personalized goals. I believe these are the three most important components of a successful tutor.
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelors, Biology, General
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center - Current Grad Student, MD
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- Elementary School
- MCAT Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
- +55 subjects
Connor: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...chemistry, introductory physics, economics and for the MCAT exam. I excelled in undergraduate coursework pertaining to these subjects and have prior experience in assisting pre-professional (pre-medical and pre-nursing) students looking to succeed in their required general science classes. My tutoring methodology is dependent on the establishment of a strong conceptual framework, and subsequent application of theory through practice problems (the best way to master any pure science). I frequently employ the use of problem sets...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- GRE
- College Business
- Physics
- +43 subjects
Kyle: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...with two degrees in biology and psychology, I have spent my time going through the medical school application process. During the upcoming year, I hope to help tutor those still in school not only to keep on my toes academically, but to help those who may be struggling with various subjects throughout their academic careers. There is no better feeling than watching someone have a eureka moment of understanding, and I look forward to meeting...
Education & Certification
- University of Colorado Denver - Bachelor of Science, Biology & Psychology
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- AP Chemistry
- General Biology
- Algebra
- +46 subjects
Matthew: San Diego MCAT course instructor
...my fellow classmates with their classes and coursework, primarily with general and organic chemistry. During my time at the Tutoring Center, I found that I really enjoyed helping students understand their studies. I have always had a passion for helping others. In my time with the tutoring center, I earned the "Distinguished Service Award" three times. I really enjoyed learning how to best help each student succeed. Because of this experience, I intend to always...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelors, Microbiology
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Microbiology
- High School Biology
- SAT
- +17 subjects