How to Create a 3-Month MCAT Study Plan

Prepping for the MCAT in just three months can feel overwhelming — but with the right plan, it’s totally possible. While three months might sound short, what matters most is how many hours you put in. Most students need between 250–350 hours to be fully prepared, which averages out to 20–30 hours per week in a three-month timeline.

Start with a Diagnostic Test

Before you build your plan, take a diagnostic test. This will give you a baseline score and help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. You don’t need to spend too much time reviewing every question — just get a sense of where you’re at.

Break Down Your Hours

Aim for at least 20 hours per week if you’re balancing other responsibilities, or 30+ hours per week if you’re studying full-time. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Content Review (1–1.5 months): Focus on weak areas while keeping up with all subjects. Don’t get stuck in passive review — move on once you understand the basics.
• Practice Questions (Most Important): Spend the majority of your time on practice questions, especially after the first month. Active practice is the best way to improve.
• Full-Length Practice Exams (Every Week): Take one practice exam each week to simulate test day, measure your progress, and adjust your study plan.

Adjust Based on Your Background

If you’re fresh out of your pre-med classes, you’ll need less content review and can focus more on practice. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen the material, allocate more time to reviewing content.

Stick to a Schedule

Consistency is everything. Use a study planner to map out what you’ll study each day. Need help building a schedule? You can create a free personalized MCAT study plan at MCAT.Tools — just input your timeline and schedule, and we’ll handle the rest.

Final Thoughts

Three months is tight, but it’s doable if you commit to the hours. Focus on active learning, take regular practice tests, and adjust your plan as needed. Most importantly, trust the process and take care of yourself along the way.

Ready to get started? Create your free MCAT study plan today at MCAT.Tools!