MCAT Preparation: One-on-one Tutoring or Online Classes?
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If you are considering a career in medicine, one of the most important steps you will have to take is preparing for the Medical College Admission Test or MCAT. Most, if not all US medical schools and many Canadian medical schools require applicants to submit MCAT scores as part of the admission process. This standardized, multiple-choice, computer-based exam developed and administered by the Association of American Colleges (AAMC) is designed to help medical school admission offices test examinees' skills and knowledge on major prerequisites identified by professionals as necessary for succeeding in medical school as well as in practice. More information about the MCAT, registration, and preparation for the test can be found on the AAMC website where you can find guidance on how to study, register and prepare for it. Note that you can avail of reduced registration fees as well as free MCAT preparation resources if you meet the eligibility requirements.
To prepare for the MCATs, you can opt to study on your own using free materials from websites and forums or join live online classes however one-on-one tutoring is also worth considering especially when taking the test for the first time. For starters, it is best to look up reputable review centers like MedSchoolCoach which utilize effective time-tested approaches and customized study plan options to optimize success rate of examinees so you only need to sit for this test once. The MCAT takes about seven and a half hours hence you want to prepare for it comprehensively. Here are some benefits you can gain from structured one-on-one review services.
Mentorship
When you opt for one-on-one training, a tutor can focus solely on you and can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses whereas, in a classroom or online setting, there will be other students hence you will not get a tutor's undivided attention. This focused mentorship allows you to address troublesome areas of the MCATs and receive proper guidance from experienced and passionate tutors from the best medical centers nationwide.
Customization
If you are one of those premeds who require personalized attention when reviewing for an exam, then a one-on-one class is probably the best fit for you. In this kind of setting, you can allot ample preparation time on your weak areas. By committing your time wisely on the sections you find challenging, you are able to increase your chance of success hence allowing you to get the highest MCAT score possible.
Flexibility
Although online classes are also scheduled conveniently, one-on-one training is suitable for individuals who have extremely busy and erratic schedules. This way you have the option to choose the time and dates of your classes to match your availability allowing you to create a balance between your MCAT preparation and other activities in your personal life.
Taking the MCATs is one of the first major steps you need to take as you prepare for your medical school applications. Take the time to consider and study the best preparation method to suit your requirements and specific learning style.