487 MCAT Score – Is 487 a Good MCAT Score?

Understanding your 487 MCAT Score is crucial for your medical journey.

• Explore what this score means in terms of percentile rank and medical school admissions.
• Learn actionable tips to improve your score and better your chances of getting into your dream school.

Understanding the MCAT Scoring Scale: From 472 to 528

When it comes to the MCAT, scores can range from a low of 472 to a high of 528. Understanding this scoring scale is fundamental to interpreting your 487 MCAT Score and planning your next steps.

MCAT Score Percentiles

Before diving into the intricacies of a 487 MCAT Score, let’s get acquainted with MCAT score percentiles:

• 472 to 475: <1 percentile
• 476 to 479: 1-2 percentile
• 480 to 483: 3-6 percentile
• 484 to 487: 7-11 percentile
• 488 to 491: 13-19 percentile
• 492 to 495: 21-29 percentile
• 496 to 499: 32-41 percentile
• 500 to 503: 45-55 percentile
• 504 to 507: 58-68 percentile
• 508 to 511: 71-80 percentile
• 512 to 515: 83-90 percentile
• 516 to 519: 92-96 percentile
• 520 to 523: 97-99 percentile
• 524 to 528: 100 percentile

Is 487 a Competitive Score?

Your 487 MCAT Score places you in the 11th percentile. This means you’ve scored higher than 11% of all test-takers, but you’re also below 89% of them. While not a disastrous score, it’s important to acknowledge that most U.S. medical schools have much higher average accepted scores. Here’s a breakdown:

• Average MCAT scores for top-tier schools: Usually above 515
• Mid-tier schools: Generally around 505 to 515
• Lower-tier schools: Rarely accept scores below 500

So, where does a 487 MCAT Score fit in this scenario? Unfortunately, this score will be considered below average by most medical schools, limiting your options for admission.

Is 487 a Good MCAT Score?

When asking if a 487 MCAT Score is a good one, it’s crucial to frame the question within the broader context of medical school admissions. This will guide you in identifying the strengths and weaknesses of your application.

How Do Medical Schools View a 487 Score?

To put it simply, a 487 MCAT Score is not commonly viewed as competitive for most U.S. medical schools. Here are some factors to consider:

• Acceptance rates: A lower MCAT score correlates with lower chances of acceptance into most medical programs.
• Financial Aid: Some scholarships and grants might require a minimum MCAT score, often well above 487.

Frequently Asked Questions

You’re not alone in wondering about the implications of this score. Here are some common questions people ask:

• Is 487 on the MCAT good?: Compared to the accepted averages, a score of 487 is generally considered below par.
• How bad is a 487 on the MCAT?: With a percentile rank of 11, you’re outscoring only 11% of test-takers, leaving much room for improvement.
• Can you get into med school with a 487 MCAT Score?: While not impossible, it is extremely difficult. Most successful applicants with low MCAT scores offset them with exceptionally strong other components like GPA, research, and recommendations.

What Are Your Options?

Given that a 487 is less than ideal, what can you do next?

• Retake the MCAT: If you believe you can improve, preparing for a retake might be a wise choice.
• Strengthen other application aspects: Impressive research, a strong GPA, or unique life experiences can sometimes offset a lower MCAT score.

Is 487 a Bad MCAT Score?

The tough truth about a 487 MCAT Score is that by traditional metrics used in U.S. medical school admissions, it’s not an ideal number to have on your application. However, understanding the challenges associated with such a score can guide you in making informed decisions.

The Reality Check: Stats Don’t Lie

So, you’re at the 11th percentile with a 487 MCAT score. This needs to be viewed through the lens of statistical reality:

• Highly Competitive Programs: Virtually out of reach with a 487.
• Mid-Tier Programs: Highly unlikely to consider a 487 score for admission.
• Lower-Tier Programs: While these might be more lenient, a 487 is still generally below the cut-off.

Common Queries Resolved

Since this is a score that prompts questions, let’s address some:

• How bad is a 487 MCAT?: Given that most accepted scores are well above this number, a 487 is considered below average for medical school admissions.
• Should you cancel a 487 MCAT score?: This depends on various factors like whether you can significantly improve upon retaking.

How to Pivot from a 487 Score

If you’ve gotten this score, you’re likely wondering what to do next. Here are some suggestions:

• Retake and Improve: Most students opt for retaking the MCAT with a focused preparation strategy.
• Strong Alternative Credentials: If retaking isn’t an option, consider improving other areas of your application, like GPA or gaining more clinical experience.
• Broadening Horizons: While the MD route might be more challenging, other pathways like DO programs, Caribbean medical schools, or other healthcare-related careers might be more viable.

487 MCAT Score Percentile

Unpacking the percentile rank of a 487 MCAT Score can offer meaningful insights into your standing among test-takers and your medical school application’s strength.

What Does 11th Percentile Mean?

A 487 MCAT Score falls within the 11th percentile, a crucial figure to understand:

• Above the Bottom: You’ve outscored at least 11% of the test-takers, but you are below the vast majority—89% to be exact.
• The General Trend: Medical schools typically look for scores well above the 50th percentile, often seeking candidates in the 75th percentile or higher.

Comparative Analysis with Other Scores

It’s essential to see how a 487 stacks up against other scores in the percentile range:

• Close to 480-483: These scores are in the 3-6 percentile, only slightly below a 487.
• Just Short of 488-491: These are in the 13-19 percentile, a significant bump up from a 487.

Real-World Implications of an 11th Percentile Score

So, what are the practical effects of being in the 11th percentile?

• Medical School Admissions: Very challenging, as the score is well below the typical median scores of admitted students.
• Financial Aid: Scholarships or grants based on MCAT scores will likely be out of reach.
• Alternative Routes: Considering other paths in healthcare may become more appealing, as a 487 score may not be competitive enough for most MD programs.

How Hard Is It to Get a 487 MCAT Score?

Earning a 487 MCAT Score may raise questions about the level of difficulty associated with achieving such a result. Is it difficult to get, or could it indicate areas for improvement? Let’s delve into what this score might mean in the context of MCAT preparation and performance.

Effort vs. Outcome

When looking at a 487, it’s useful to gauge the effort put in versus the result:

• Minimal Preparation: If you did minimal studying and scored a 487, your baseline might not be far from breaking into higher percentiles with focused prep.
• Extensive Preparation: If you studied extensively and still hit 487, it may indicate that your strategies need revisiting.

Common Pitfalls for Scoring 487

Examining common reasons for scoring in this range can be revealing:

• Inadequate Time Management: Trying to cover too much material in too little time can result in a score like 487.
• Knowledge Gaps: Not fully grasping the core concepts can make crossing the 500-mark difficult.
• Test-Day Anxiety: Psychological factors can often contribute to a suboptimal performance.

Strategies for Improvement

If you’re disappointed with a 487, consider the following steps:

• Targeted Review: Identify weak areas and focus your studying there.
• Practice Exams: Take full-length, timed practice exams to simulate real testing conditions.
• Expert Guidance: Sometimes an MCAT prep course or a tutor can provide the targeted instruction needed for improvement.

Can You Get into Medical School with a 487 MCAT Score?

One of the most pressing questions associated with a 487 MCAT Score is its impact on medical school admissions. While a 487 score may present challenges, it’s not an outright disqualifier. Let’s break down the odds, opportunities, and alternatives.

The Odds: How Many Say Yes?

Realistically, your chances of getting into a U.S.-based MD program with a 487 are slim. Here’s why:

• Admissions Statistics: Most schools have median MCAT scores well above 500.
• Applicant Pool: You’re competing with applicants who often have much higher scores.

Opportunities: Where Can You Apply?

While MD programs may be out of reach, consider these alternative paths:

• DO Programs: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine programs often have slightly lower MCAT requirements.
• Caribbean Medical Schools: These schools are generally more lenient with MCAT scores but come with their own set of risks and challenges.

Alternative Routes: Plan B, C, D…

If medical school seems unlikely with a 487, explore other rewarding healthcare paths:

• Nurse Practitioner: Lower entry requirements and excellent job prospects.
• Physician Assistant: Another role with significant responsibility and patient interaction.
• Public Health or Research: These fields can be entered with varying degrees and qualifications.

Strategies for Consideration

For those determined to make it to medical school, consider:

• Retake the MCAT: Many students improve significantly on their second attempt.
• Application Packaging: Exceptional letters of recommendation, a high GPA, and relevant experience can sometimes offset a low MCAT score.

Should You Cancel a 487 MCAT Score?

After receiving a 487 MCAT Score, one of the immediate questions that may come to mind is whether to cancel the score or let it stand on your record. The decision is crucial and often complex, influenced by multiple factors.

When Should You Consider Canceling?

Here are some key scenarios where canceling might be in your best interest:

• First Attempt with Minimal Prep: If this is your first try and you didn’t prepare adequately, canceling could be wise.
• Significant Test-Day Issues: If illness or another emergency affected your performance, consider canceling.

Reasons to Keep the Score

Conversely, there are reasons you might choose to keep your 487:

• Benchmark for Improvement: Knowing your initial score can help you identify areas of weakness and gauge progress.
• Limited Chances: You can only take the MCAT a limited number of times, so make sure each opportunity counts.

The Risk of Multiple Low Scores

Bear in mind the implications of multiple low MCAT scores:

• Red Flags: Medical schools may view multiple low scores as a pattern of poor preparation or capability.
• Application Sorting Algorithms: Some schools may automatically screen out scores below a certain threshold.

Expert Opinions & Next Steps

Consult with academic advisors or mentors experienced in medical school admissions to make a well-informed decision:

• Seek Professional Guidance: Discuss your entire profile, not just the MCAT score, to evaluate your situation fully.
• Balanced Decision: Weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering your long-term academic and career goals.

Tips to Improve Your 487 MCAT Score

So you’ve got a 487 MCAT Score, and you’re pondering the next steps. Whether you aim to retake the MCAT or consider alternative healthcare careers, here are some targeted tips for improving your performance.

Tailor Your Study Plan

A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Make your study schedule tailored to your needs:

• Weak Areas First: Target the sections where you scored lowest.
• Quality over Quantity: It’s better to understand a concept thoroughly than to skim through multiple topics.

Adopt Proven Study Methods

Various study methods can make your preparation more effective:

• Active Recall: Engage with the material actively rather than passively reading it.
• Spaced Repetition: Revisit your study material at increasing intervals over time.

Harness the Power of Practice Exams

Practice exams are your best friends when improving your MCAT score:

• Timed Sessions: Simulate real exam conditions to boost your time management skills.
• Analyze Results: Post-exam analysis can offer you detailed insights into your performance.

Consider Professional Help

Sometimes, self-study isn’t enough:

• MCAT Prep Courses: These offer structured study plans and expert guidance.
• One-on-One Tutoring: A tutor can offer personalized coaching tailored to your specific needs.

Mental and Physical Wellbeing

Never underestimate the power of good health:

• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help you relieve stress and improve cognitive function.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques like meditation can help you keep test anxiety at bay.

For more information to improve your MCAT score we recommend visiting AMMC.

MCAT Scores 472 to 528

472	473	474	475	476
477	478	479	480	481
482	483	484	485	486
487	488	489	490	491
492	493	494	495	496
497	498	499	500	501
502	503	504	505	506
507	508	509	510	511
512	513	514	515	516
517	518	519	520	521
522	523	524	525	526
527	528

Conclusion: Embracing Your MCAT Score & Planning Your Medical School Journey

At the end of the day, your 487 MCAT Score is a single milestone on the long road to a career in healthcare. While it’s natural to feel disappointment or concern, it’s crucial to remember that this score doesn’t dictate your worth or potential for success in the medical field.

Taking Stock: The Big Picture

Before making any decisions, consider these factors:

• Holistic Application: Medical schools consider GPA, letters of recommendation, and extracurriculars in addition to MCAT scores.
• Personal Qualities: Qualities like empathy, communication skills, and resilience also matter in medicine.

Mapping the Road Ahead: Strategies & Decisions

Based on your score, here are some routes you might consider:

• Retaking the MCAT: Prepare more efficiently and try to improve your score.
• Alternative Career Paths: Look into other healthcare roles where a lower MCAT score is less of a hindrance.
• Educational Development: Consider post-baccalaureate programs or Master’s in Medical Science programs to improve your academic credentials.

Final Thoughts: Resilience & Opportunity

A career in healthcare is a marathon, not a sprint:

• Adaptability: The ability to adapt and pivot is valuable, especially in a field as dynamic as healthcare.
• Continuous Learning: Whether you choose to retake the MCAT or pursue other avenues, the journey is one of ongoing education and self-improvement.