The test is given in April and August. Normally, it is advised to take the test no later than April of the year in which the application is filed. The August test during the application year may seriously delay the completion of the application. In each school's section of MSAR information on the age of acceptable scores is listed. While many who take the test enroll in a commercial review course, many others study on their own.
Opinion varies on the value of a course.
For most, however, diligent study is necessary. A binder of questionnaires completed by Berkeley students who have taken the MCAT is available on the open shelves in the Career Center Information Lab . While many apply at the end of the junior year so as to be able to enter the fall after they graduate, it is perfectly acceptable to apply at other times, e.g., after the senior year or a year or more later. While deadlines are not until November and December, it is important to apply early in June as many schools use rolling admissions. Career Center counselors conduct workshops on applying and are available to provide individual assistance.