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MCAT Writing Sample Scoring
Learn how the writing sample essays are scored and how to improve your writing skills.
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| Improve Your Writing Score
Online essay writing guide, with strategies, tips and sample essays
Only $15 | | |
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The writing sample section is the only part of the MCAT test which is not rated by a computer but by AAMC trained readers. Each essay is viewed by two readers and is scored on a 1-6 scale. The sum of their scores is then added to the sum of the second essay on a scale of 4-24.
Finally, the numerical score is converted into a letter grade on a scale of J to T. Here is an example of the MCAT writing score calculation:
| Reader 1 | Reader 2 | Essay 1 | 4 | 5 | Essay 2 | 3 | 4 | Total score | 7 | 9 | Final score | 7+9=16 | Letter score | ~P-Q |
As the median score of the past three years is O, we encourage you to beat the average MCAT score by producing 4-6 point essays that will amount to a total score of Q or more.
How to improve your MCAT writing score?Scoring well on this section demands a writing ability that demonstrates clarity, depth, and complexity. However, bear in mind that by investing moderate effort you can improve your MCAT writing score significantly. Here are our guidelines for success:
- Practice by reading 6-point sample essays and draw inspiration from them.
- Follow your progress by having professionals evaluate and correct your essays.
- Practice using a sophisticated English vocabulary.
- Practice developing an idea analytically.
Our students' success is proof of our MCAT writing sample guide's unique edge!
Try a free sample of our online MCAT writing sample guide.
MCAT writing score importanceThe importance of this section is frequently questioned by MCAT test takers. This of course is a mistake. The importance of the writing sample section is three-fold.
- First, it is an integral part of the test, and as such should receive the same amount of attention as the other sections. Think of a situation in which two students who are applying to a leading medical school both have a 34 MCAT score. One of them might be favored over his friend thanks to his higher writing score. Make sure you will be the favored student.
- Second, the formal essays you are required to send to medical schools as part of the application process can be readily compared with your MCAT essays. Inconsistency between the two can bring up doubts and questions by the admissions committee, and thus your reliability will be at stake.
- Third, the writing sample section is your opportunity to exhibit the non-technical and more humanistic sides of your personality. These traits are relevant for your application process, as medical schools are searching for students who can not only carry out the technical procedures of medical practice but also communicate with people in need.
Read about our writing sample guide.
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