Osteopathic schools are often slightly easier to get into, so if you think you may be interested in this approach, you should investigate osteopathy further. The MCATs are offered in 2001 on April 21 and August 18. Because it is important to have a complete application as soon as possible, the latest you should take the MCAT is April before the June when you apply. If you take the August MCAT, your application won't be complete until those scores are sent out in October, which puts you in a less advantageous position. For the convenience of students who are interested in taking it, there is a Kaplan MCAT prep course that is offered on campus for Swarthmore students, starting the first weekend of the spring semester.
Some students find the structure of a prep class and the frequent practice tests very useful.
Others have the discipline to study on their own, and do well without it. Many applicants take a few years after graduation to strengthen their academic records. They sometimes choose to take additional science courses at a local university, or enroll in a formal post-baccalaureate program for students interested in medical school who need to improve their credentials. If you feel that your credentials may not be strong enough, be sure to consult with Gigi about your situation.