MCAT Biological Sciences

Class Location: The Internet.

Description: This class will prepare students for taking the Biological Sciences portion of the MCAT.

Objective: Score high on the Biological Sciences section of the MCAT.

The biological sciences section of the MCAT follows the same format as the physical sciences section, except that it covers organic chemistry and introductory biology, including general biology with a strong animal biology component. You must answer 77 questions in 100 minutes. The test usually includes ten or 11 250-word passages, with between four and eight multiple-choice questions following each passage. You must also answer 15 questions unrelated to any passages. You will have to use your knowledge of biology and organic chemistry to solve science problems, with data appearing in charts, tables, and graphs. This section asks you to apply your knowledge in these areas to answer the questions, as well as interpret, analyze, and integrate information in the passages with what you already know.

The biological sciences section tests your knowledge of the following areas of biology:

• Molecular biology: enzymes and metabolism

• Molecular biology: DNA and protein synthesis

• Molecular biology: eukaryotes

• Genetics

• Microbiology

• Generalized eukaryotic cells

• Specialized eukaryotic cells and tissues

• Nervous and endocrine systems

• Circulatory, lymphatic, and immune systems

• Respiration system

• Skin system

• Digestive and excretory systems

• Muscle and skeletal systems

• Reproductive system and development

• Evolution

The exam also tests your knowledge of the following areas of organic chemistry:

• Covalent bonds

• Molecular structure and spectra

• Separations and purifications

• Hydrocarbons

• Oxygen-containing compounds

• Amines

• Biological molecules

• General concepts, including classification, structure, and IUPAC nomenclature of organic compounds; reactions and reaction mechanisms; and multi-step synthesis and retrosynthesis

The biological sciences section tests specific scientific knowledge, so it requires extensive studying. Follow the outlines in the MCAT Student Manual to prepare study notes as you go through your coursework. And give yourself plenty of time to study over the course of a few months so that you can digest the large amount of material tested on the MCAT.