Signs You Need to Push Back your MCAT Test Date

So the big MCAT test date is approaching at what feels like an aggressive velocity, and – wait…is it velocity…or speed? What’s the difference between those again? And oh man, how can you even think about physics content when you’ve got a cat wedding to plan and that endless feeling of crushing, probably-related-to-studying-ochem fatigue that you can’t seem to shake? If this sounds familiar, don’t stress (more, anyway); these things may just be signs that you need to push back your MCAT test date.

The MCAT ain’t easy, and it requires significant preparation and months of focused study time with the right resources. Check out our posts on How to Create an MCAT Study Schedule that Works for You and How to Pick Your MCAT Resources for some hot study tips. But let’s get back to the topic at hand – your big day is fast approaching, and you’re not sure if you’re fully prepared. But how can you be sure? Well, here are some signs that you might benefit from pushing back your exam date:

Your practice exam scores are consistently low

Let’s face it, those 502s are probably not going to get you into your dream school. If you're taking practice tests over and over again and not meeting your test score goals, that's a sign that you need more time to study and hone those test-taking skills. Your practice test scores are a great indicator of your readiness for the real thing, so pay attention to them.

You feel overwhelmed or burnt out

If the thought of studying thermochemistry or the reactions of alkanes makes you want to throw your study materials out of a 12-story building (well, more than usual), it might be time to take a break – which might mean pushing back your MCAT exam date. There are several signs of burnout that you may experience if you’re studying for the MCAT for an extended period of time. If you find yourself lacking the motivation to study or feeling completely disinterested in studying altogether, it could be a sign of burnout. You might also find it hard to focus or retain information as effectively as you used to. Or maybe you’re feeling physically, mentally, and/or emotionally exhausted. Burnout and stress can also manifest in physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, trouble sleeping…and the list unfortunately goes on. You may also feel emotionally drained or experience mood swings.

Experiencing burnout may be a sign that you need to take a step away from studying for the MCAT. It's important to take breaks, prioritize self-care, and seek support from your people. Even if that means a later test date. 

You’re experiencing unexpected life events

Life happens, and things don't always go as planned. If you're dealing with unexpected life events (illness, major change, family emergencies, personal issues, etc.), it might mean you should push back your MCAT test date. It's challenging to focus on studying when your mind is preoccupied with something more pressling…like the tux color Mr. Whisker Face should wear, or whether the ceremony should be catered by Fancy Feast or Purina, for instance. 

If you are considering pushing back your MCAT exam date, don’t worry – you don’t have to go it alone; there are people you can reach out to for guidance and support. Your academic advisor can hook you up with relevant info about the MCAT, discuss your current situation, and help you weigh your options. If you are enrolled in an MCAT prep course, your instructor would be a source of some great advice – they’re an MCAT expert, after all. And talking to mentors or peers who have taken the MCAT can help you gain insight from people who have probably been in the exact same spot you are now.

In conclusion

Okay, so you decided you need a bit more study time and that your MCAT exam date should happen sometime further in the future. Fortunately, this part is easy – you can reschedule your MCAT exam date online using the AAMC’s MCAT Registration System, or you can call (202) 828-0600 to contact the AAMC old-school style. Keep in mind that rescheduling isn’t free, and the closer you get to your exam day, the more it’s gonna cost ya. Check out AAMC’s MCAT Scheduling Fees page for more info. 

Ultimately, the decision to take a raincheck on your MCAT exam date is yours to make, and it's important to consider all factors – including how ready you feel to take on the exam AND your overall well-being. Take your time, focus on your preparation, and reach out to your support system to give yourself the best chance of achieving your dream score – without all the burnout.