How to Create an MCAT Study Schedule That Actually Works

Creating an MCAT study schedule is one of the most important steps in your prep. Without a clear plan, it's easy to burn out, miss content, or run out of time before test day. Here’s how to build a schedule that fits your timeline and goals.

Why a study schedule matters

A good schedule does three things: it keeps you accountable, spreads content and practice evenly, and builds in review so nothing gets forgotten. Students who stick to a structured plan tend to see more consistent score improvements than those who study “when they can.”

Choose your timeline

Most students prep for 3, 6, or 9 months depending on how many hours per week they can study and their baseline. Use the guidelines below, then adjust based on your own pace.

3-month timeline

• Best if you can study 25–35+ hours per week (e.g., summer or light semester).
• Focus: content review in the first month, then heavy practice and full-lengths.
• Risk: less room for setbacks; one bad week can throw things off. Only choose this if you’re disciplined and have a solid foundation.

6-month timeline

• Best if you can study 15–20 hours per week (e.g., during the school year).
• Balance of content review, question banks, and full-lengths. Plenty of time for weak areas.
• This is the most common choice and usually the most manageable.

9-month timeline

• Best if you can study 10–15 hours per week or want a slower, lower-stress pace.
• More time for deep review, multiple passes through material, and building habits.
• Good if you’re balancing a heavy course load or job.

Build your schedule in blocks

1. Content phase – Go through each subject (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics, psych/soc, CARS) with notes and/or videos. Allocate time by how much you need to learn vs. review.
2. Practice phase – Do passage-based and discrete questions. Mix subjects and do timed sets.
3. Full-length phase – Take at least 4–6 full-length exams, spaced every 1–2 weeks. Review each one thoroughly before the next.
4. Final review – Last 1–2 weeks: light content review, formula sheets, and rest. No cramming.

MedLeague’s live workshops fit well into the content and practice phases: you get structure, accountability, and the chance to ask 99th percentile instructors questions in real time.

Sample week (6-month plan, ~18 hours/week)

• Mon–Fri: 2–3 hours per day (e.g., 1 hour content, 1 hour practice, 30 min review).
• Saturday: 4–5 hours (e.g., full-length or long practice block + review).
• Sunday: 1–2 hours (light review, flashcards, or catch-up).

Adjust the split as you move from content-heavy to practice-heavy. The key is consistency: same blocks each week so it becomes routine.

Final tips

• Block time on your calendar so MCAT study is non-negotiable.
• Build in buffer days for when life gets in the way.
• Review your plan every 2–4 weeks and shift hours if a section is lagging.
• Use a mix of resources—books, videos, and live instruction (like MedLeague’s workshops) keep you engaged and on track.

If you want a ready-made structure and live support, MedLeague’s unlimited access and 14-day free trial can slot right into your schedule. Start with a plan that matches your timeline, then stick to it and adjust as you go.