In this brief guide, we are going to answer the question “How much of the MCAT is biochemistry?” We will introduce you to each of the MCAT sections, the main concepts you will need to learn, and some tips for studying biochemistry.
How Much of the MCAT is Biochemistry?
Biochemistry comprises approximately 25% of the MCAT, with 25 to 35 questions covering biochemistry in two of the four sections of the exam.
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized test administered to individuals who wish to attend medical school in the United States. Almost all American medical schools require MCAT scores from applicants interested in pursuing careers as physicians.
Therefore, the MCAT is an extremely important exam, and both schools and applicants take it seriously. Members of the Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine require MCAT scores from their applicants.
The history of the MCAT is quite long. MCAT Test preparation administrations began in the 1920s when standardized intelligence tests became immensely popular in the United States. Medical school administrators were concerned about the high dropout rate among medical students and decided to design a standardized test to assess readiness for medical school.
Dropout rates dropped dramatically after the implementation of this standardized test, and most medical schools adopted it as part of their admissions process.
The MCAT content assesses several areas. The first, of course, is the basic knowledge of the physical sciences and biology. The test also evaluates the applicant’s analytical and critical thinking skills, presenting various passages and arguments that the examinee must analyze during the test.
The MCAT also assesses reading comprehension and communication skills, which are vital for clinicians.
The modern MCAT is a computerized test, although it is not adaptive like the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). This means that examinees can return to a section once they have completed it, as the questions are set and static.
The MCAT takes around five hours to complete, including breaks, and is administered in secure testing centers so applicants have quiet, distraction-free spaces to work.
MCAT Sections
There are four sections on the MCAT. The first tests the applicant’s knowledge of the physical sciences and also challenges the applicant to use their problem-solving skills.
The Verbal Reasoning section, Part Two, provides passages for test-takers to read and analyze, followed by a series of multiple-choice questions that test the applicant’s ability to comprehend and synthesize information. For those looking for additional support, a college paper writing service can help improve writing and analytical skills.
The third section is a writing sample, in which the applicant responds to two short prompts that assess their communication skills and logical thinking. Finally, the life sciences section covers basic topics in biology.
Chemical + Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
The first section of the MCAT focuses on the physical sciences, specifically general chemistry and physics. It covers content in the following proportions:
30% General Chemistry
25% Biochemistry
25% Physics
15% Organic Chemistry
5% Biology
This section lasts 95 minutes and includes 15 standalone questions and 10 passages, each followed by 4 to 7 questions. To prepare for the chemistry portion, examinees need a strong grasp of the periodic table, chemical processes, and molecular bonding. The physics portion requires understanding fundamental physical laws and concepts such as motion, energy, light, and atomic structure.
Critical Analysis + Reasoning Skills
The CARS section is significantly more challenging than SAT-style reading comprehension and the verbal section of the old exams. This section covers:
50% humanities
50% social science
You are not required to have any outside knowledge; everything you need to know to answer the questions will be provided in the passages. You will have a total of 90 minutes to work through nine passages with a total of 53 questions. If you’re struggling with essay writing as part of your test preparation, a paper writing service can help you improve your skills.
In this section, no specific factual knowledge is required. Rather, the questions are designed to test reading comprehension, critical and logical thinking, and analytical skills. In general, test takers prepare for this section of the MCAT primarily by taking practice exams.
Biological + Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
This section covers:
65% Biology
25% Biochemistry
5% General Chemistry
5% Organic Chemistry
As with the first science section, you’ll have 95 minutes to answer 15 discrete questions and 10 passages with 4 to 7 questions each. The topics in this section vary widely, from enzyme structure to evolution. Test-takers require a thorough understanding of molecular biology, including the structure and function of DNA, as well as microbiology, including the characteristics of viral, bacterial, and eukaryotic cells.
In addition, examinees should be familiar with all major biological systems of larger animals. Finally, organic chemistry topics range from covalent bonds to the characteristics of biological molecules.
MCAT Scores
Each section of the MCAT allows a student to score between a minimum of 118 points and a maximum of 132 points. For the total sum of the four sections, a student can achieve a score ranging from a minimum of 472 to a maximum of 528.
You may have heard scores like 23 or 31 mentioned in the past. However, it’s important to clarify that these scores were used before the MCAT underwent its most recent change in 2015. Currently, all students applying to medical school are doing so with the new scoring system.
What is considered a good GMAT score?
The average for the total MCAT score is 510-511.
The average total MCAT score is 510-511. However, for the most accurate estimate, you should check directly with the programs. Especially for those who must juggle the MCAT alongside other jobs, it helps to know how much effort and time to put into preparing for the exam.
Here are some important questions to consider before beginning your research.
What MCAT Scores Do You Need for Acceptance?
To determine the MCAT score you need, it’s essential to have a target score in mind. Start by contacting the admissions office of the medical schools you’re interested in to request their preferred cutoff score. If the school doesn’t provide a specific cutoff, you can find the average GPA and MCAT scores for accepted students here.
Keep in mind that some schools may use your MCAT scores for course placement or scholarship decisions. In such cases, aiming for a score higher than the minimum requirement may increase your chances of receiving additional benefits.
How can I prepare for the MCAT?
To excel on the MCAT® Biology exam, start by gathering detailed information about the test. This knowledge will help you craft an effective study plan. The MCAT is a standardized exam with primarily multiple-choice questions. Besides biology concepts, it also assesses your understanding of physical sciences, verbal reasoning skills, and writing abilities. There are many MCAT preparation courses available online and in person.
Exploring the Biochemistry Section
For specific details about the MCAT biochemistry section, visit the Association of American Medical Colleges website. The site provides a comprehensive overview of the content covered in the biology and chemistry sections of the MCAT.
Importance of Early Preparation
A high score on the MCAT can significantly enhance your chances of getting accepted into your desired medical school. Therefore, it is beneficial to begin your study preparation early. Many experts recommend starting at least three months before the exam date.
Additionally, if you find yourself struggling with other academic tasks, you might consider using an online paper writing service to help manage your workload. Dedicating substantial study time each day can ensure thorough preparation, allowing you to cover all necessary concepts and avoid last-minute cramming, which is generally ineffective for achieving a high score.
Utilizing Study Guides and Practice Tests
Consider obtaining a copy of the Official MCAT Exam Guide, available on the Association of American Medical Colleges website. This guide contains content and questions similar to those on the actual MCAT, along with answers and detailed explanations. It also offers tips for answering questions correctly and insights into how a strong MCAT score can impact medical school acceptance.
Practice tests are an essential tool for preparing for the MCAT® Biology section. The Association of American Medical Colleges website offers practice tests, and additional tests can be found on other preparatory websites and in study guides. If you opt for an MCAT® Biochemistry Prep course, practice tests, and expert commentary are often included in the package.