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When it comes to getting quality Pittsburgh MCAT prep, Varsity Tutors can be of great assistance. If you plan on getting into the field of medicine, then you've probably begun to study for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The score on this exam is a factor in being admitted to the medical school of your choice. It's important to perform well on this test because it shows the admissions board that you're ready for the coursework of medical school.
The MCAT has four sections, and it'll be one of the bigger challenges to help you get into a school such as the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. If you're thinking of taking this test, a Pittsburgh MCAT prep course could be just the extra help you need to improve your understanding of the MCAT. Or perhaps you've considered working with a Pittsburgh MCAT tutor privately. In either case, Varsity Tutors can help you find the resource that works best for your test preparation.
What does Pittsburgh MCAT prep cover?
The MCAT consists of four different sections: Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems, Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills, Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior.
It's a standardized, computer-based, multiple-choice test. You'll receive five scores: one for each of the four sections and one for the total combined score. Each section is scored from 118-132. The total combined score is from 472-528. Within the test, each section may contain experimental questions that don't affect the final score. Most medical schools in the U.S. do require MCAT scores with your application.
The Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems section gives you 95 minutes to answer 59 questions. Within this section, you'll have 10 passage-based sets of questions and 15 independent questions. Students should keep in mind that they may be tested in different subject areas from general chemistry, organic and inorganic chemistry, introductory physics, introductory biology, and basic biochemistry. It could be helpful for them to review concepts such as the mechanical, physical, and biochemical functions of human tissues; chemical reactions, and the periodic table.
The next section is Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills. You'll have 90 minutes to complete 53 questions. In this part of the test, you'll have to answer 9 passage-based sets of questions. Students should refine their knowledge of verbal reasoning, reading comprehension, and analytical skills. Those skills can be helpful when going through passages and deducing different compositional elements.
The third section is Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems. You'll have 95 minutes to complete 59 questions in this part of the test. On this section of the MCAT, you'll answer 10 passage-based sets of questions and 15 independent questions. Students should be aware of different topics in biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. This can help them in understanding how living things adapt to the environment.
The last section tests you on Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior. You'll have 95 minutes to answer 59 questions in this section. Part of this section has 10 passage-based sets of questions (4-6 questions per set) and 15 independent sections. Students should be mindful to study subjects in biology, introductory psychology, and introductory sociology. They should always be aware of different concepts regarding cultural and social differences that impact a person's well being and behavioral changes in people.
What are the benefits of different styles of Pittsburgh MCAT prep?
Two of the ways students get ready for this test are prep courses and private tutoring. Varsity Tutors can help you find an option for either. Each choice has its own set of benefits, and some prospective medical students choose both methods in order to become more well-rounded. Here's a deeper look into these two methods.
Maybe an MCAT class caters to your needs. We can help enroll you in an interactive online course. This virtual classroom can help you connect with an instructor to prepare for your MCAT. You may also find it convenient that you can choose either a two-week or four-week class, depending on your weekly schedule. A Pittsburgh MCAT prep class is also great as it allows you to study wherever you feel most comfortable.
These classes focus on more of a collaborative method to retain your knowledge of the subject matter. It can be helpful to participate in group discussions as you cover the makeup of the test. Also, you can request one-on-one time with the instructor to help you clarify the concepts you're having trouble understanding.
If one-on-one sessions are more your speed, then you could have sessions with a private academic mentor to help you study for your MCAT. The advantages of getting a private instructor include customizing a program that's a perfect fit for your studies. With many people in a classroom setting, it may be hard for instructors to get to all of your questions and concerns. By being able to spend time with you getting to know your goals, your instructor can create a study plan that caters to your learning style.
An instructor can be more attentive to your needs. Working with a private instructor gives them the opportunity to find out the method in which you prefer to study, your strengths and areas of opportunity, and the best way for you to be taught the review material. Also, they can help you develop some test-taking techniques for increased efficiency on certain parts of the MCAT.
How can you find MCAT review in Pittsburgh?
Varsity Tutors can offer you help to find the study method that's right for you to help you get ready for the MCAT. It can be very helpful in knowing what type of review will best suit your needs. If you're deciding between a course that'll fit your weekly routine or the right instructor for private sessions, we can give you options for your Pittsburgh MCAT preparation. For more information, contact us for details on how you can get started with your review to prepare for the MCAT.

Vaibhav: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...novel neuroscience techniques. I will attend medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth Medical College this fall. Having taken all of the science classes since high school, I know how daunting and hard science material might seem but if taken at a very fundamental level, it is much more logical and simpler than how many high school teachers or college professors make it seem. Thats how I approach tutoring my clients. I try to use practical examples...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Algebra
- Learning Differences
- GRE
- +50 subjects

Tiwa: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...others achieve academic success is a very rewarding. I enjoy being able to pass along the things that helped me to do well in my classes to other students who will benefit from them. In regards to my tutoring style, I am very big on allowing my students to actively learn. I believe that this is the best way for my students to learn because it helps them pick up on new information and skills...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Emergency Medicine
- Johns Hopkins University - Masters, Biotechnology
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Test Prep
- ACT Writing
- Math
- +33 subjects

David: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...Carnegie Mellon, and postdoctoral work. I have worked in the biotech industry for over 10 years, and have published papers in diverse fields that have been cited over 1400 times (Research gate). My main strengths are AP, general and advanced biology, cell and molecular biology, and general and organic chemistry. I have passion for teaching, sharing what I have learned and helping students understand difficult concepts. Let me know if I can help you learn!
Education & Certification
- Stanford University - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- Carnegie Mellon University - Doctor of Philosophy, Biochemistry
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Languages
- Mandarin Chinese
- AP Chemistry
- +36 subjects

Sam: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...focus in polymer science. I am also currently applying to medical school. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about chemistry, biology, biochemistry, and organic chemistry. Having been a student-athlete in college, with volunteering, physician shadowing, and work commitments, I understand the difficulties with school and struggling with certain subjects. I tutor to help other students learn more, find success in the classroom, and do better for a brighter future.
Education & Certification
- Carnegie Mellon University - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- Carnegie Mellon University - Master of Science, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- IB Chemistry
- Test Prep
- Elementary School Reading
- +29 subjects

Jarrell: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...an honor to start that movement with a gentle push and to guide it forward with consistent encouragement. My programs benefit from a combination of my real-world background as a lawyer and over a decade of teaching and tutoring experience. I hold a B.A. in government, with high honors, from the College of William and Mary; a J.D. from the same institution; and a Ph.D. in English from the University of Pittsburgh, where I also...
Education & Certification
- College of William and Mary - Bachelors, Government
- University of Pittsburgh - PHD, English
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- SAT Reading
- CLEP Humanities
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- +90 subjects

Khari: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
My name is Khari, and I'm a recent graduate of Brown University, studying in Biomedical Engineering. I have a lot of experience with math, physics, biology and engineering, and a passion for writing as well. If you need help with school, either academically or just need someone who has been through college to help with either time management, social pressures or anything, I am willing to help!
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- High School Biology
- High School Chemistry
- Biology
- +31 subjects

Rohan: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
I attained my bachelor of science degree in biochemistry from Penn State University in May 2017. I tutor math and science generally and have been doing so for almost three years at the college level. I like to keep the learning atmosphere relaxed, but focused. In my free time I enjoy listening to music, playing sports (soccer, basketball), and reading books.
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Pre-Calculus
- Thermodynamics
- SAT Subject Test in Mathematics Level 2
- +49 subjects

Laryssa: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...with the goal of going to medical school (there is no "pre-med" major here). I tutored many students in Spanish as well as some biology and chemistry. It was great being able to help other students and remind myself of the subjects I would be taking on the MCAT soon enough. Once in medical school, I was asked to help tutor other first years (and then second years). This was very rewarding to me. My...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Spanish
- Molecular Biology
- Languages
- +35 subjects

Ren: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...in English literature/composition and test preparation. My focus is helping students gain the building blocks they need to succeed--knowing how to take a test is just as important as knowing the information! I studied Photojournalism at Point Park University, with a focus on fine art and global politics. My approach to tutoring focuses on creating independence and confidence in my clients. I try to make sure students are not just knowledgeable about the basic information,...
Education & Certification
- Point Park University - Bachelor in Arts, Photojournalism
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- IB Extended Essay
- High School English
- Social Sciences
- +68 subjects

Sai: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...as a Twenty-First Century scholar this fall, I am excited to take on my role as a lifelong learner - I know how empowering education and just figuring things out can be. I want to help students learn to love, too, for that precise reason. Be it scoring higher on a standardized test or needing help through a class they are taking, I want to help them understand and have the tools to succeed.
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Professional Certifications
- Economics
- MCAT Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
- +52 subjects

Kirsten: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
Hello! I am a registered nurse with a background in pharmacy as well. I work in an intensive care unit and eventually my end goal is to become a nurse anesthetist. I believe that knowledge is power and therefore I enjoy helping others learn in a variety of ways!
Education & Certification
- Community College of Allegheny County - Associate in Nursing, Nursing (RN)
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Medical Terminology
- PSAT
- College Chemistry
- +72 subjects

Shaunak: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...my learning even further. The steps I took in this way made me a better person and an overall proactive student. I want to help become a part of the process of helping students not just learn their subjects better, but also learn how to study better by focusing on strategies that help better optimize learning for any particular topic. I am particular helpful with MCAT Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems preparation, as...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Graduate Test Prep
- College Chemistry
- Calculus 2
- +23 subjects

Daniel: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...programs of the Allegheny Health Department. As a pre-med student, I took most basic science classes; many others, I simply took out of interest. I am comfortable with tutoring in a broad range of subjects, though I hold some preference to teaching mathematics-related courses. What I do in my free-time is rarely consistent. These days, I've been trying my hand at writing a video game in Java. This is still in a very early developmental...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh - Bachelors, Neuroscience, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- High School Chemistry
- Algebra 2
- Math
- +43 subjects

Charan: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...is a fascinating knowlede. Enjoying the process of learning the details of statistics, economics, business finance, I have spent countless hours trying to master. But just like everything in life, if you thoroughly know the rules and understand the strategy of play, you will be successful in any venture. My goal in tutoring is to help aspiring businesses minded people gain a better understanding of how the business and economics through statistics.
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts Amherst - Bachelor of Science, Business and Managerial Economics
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Macroeconomics
- College Economics
- Competition Math
- +27 subjects

Robin: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...school psychologist. I have a Master Degree in Child Psychology, in addition to an Education Specialist Degree in School Psychology. I have over eight years experience working as a school psychologist; in both school and clinical settings. My strengths include: test and measurement, interpreting assessment data, implementing research-based interventions, RTI and progress monitoring, developing organization skills, study skills, and test taking skills, and specific modules to improve academic performance. I feel that I possess the...
Education & Certification
- West Virginia University - Bachelor of Science, Journalism
- California University of Pennsylvania - Certificate, School Psychology
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Clinical Psychology
- WISC IV
- WPPSI
- +12 subjects

Matt: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...believe that the humanities and a liberal education serve to create a rich and more enjoyable life, regardless of what field of work one ends up working in. I earned my Bachelors degree in Comparative Literature from Long Beach State University and a Masters in English from Portland State University while working full time. This blue collar outlook benefitted me by seeing how a liberal arts education dovetailed into situations that were not strictly academic...
Education & Certification
- California State University-Long Beach - Bachelors, comparative literature
- Portland State University - Masters, English
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- College Level American Literature
- GRE Analytical Writing
- Essay Editing
- +20 subjects

Chris: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...between quantities and concepts, and most importantly the use of dimensional analysis to verify test answers. Background material such as the history of science and mathematics is quite effective at not only making the material more interesting but at clarifying concepts and tying them together. The story of what a scientist was trying to accomplish when creating a theory can make the difference between accurately comprehending a theory and therefore its limitations or only memorizing...
Education & Certification
- U of Akron - Bachelors, Chemistry
- YSU - Masters, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- AP Calculus BC
- Summer
- Linguistics
- +70 subjects

Karianne: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...abroad in Scotland, Australia, and Switzerland, and I love to travel. In law school I tutored privately for the GRE as well as served as a teaching assistant for Civil Procedure. I tutor a wide variety of subjects, but my favorites are Writing and Editing as well as the English/Verbal portions of standardized tests. In my free time, I enjoy reading genre literature, volunteering, and learning to cook with new ingredients from my CSA share.
Education & Certification
- Beloit College - Bachelors, Environmental Biology
- University of Oregon School of Law - PHD, Law
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- ACT Science
- Geometry
- College English
- +100 subjects

Ameka: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...years) struggle with English her whole life while I excelled at it. She always really appreciated that I was willing to take the time and have the patience to help her improve and finish tough assignments, and she is the one who inspires me to tutor today. I take this role seriously and would like to guide any student needing English or literary aid toward success, however that may be defined in each situation. When...
Education & Certification
- Transylvania University - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Elementary School Math
- AP Psychology
- ACT Math
- +94 subjects

Julia: Pittsburgh MCAT test prep instructor
...who were deaf or hard of hearing. Following that I worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters for 2 years. I ran mentoring programs within many elementary and middle school public schools in the Pittsburgh area. I completed my Masters in Early Childhood Education (specifically PreK-4), in 2018. I currently am a Kindergarten teacher. Working with children is truly my passion. I have 21 wonderful 5/6 year old students. I still tutor out of school hours....
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Chinese, Communications
- Drexel University - Current Grad Student, Early Childhood Education
Subject Expertise
- MCAT
- Test Prep
- Latin
- Phonics
- +35 subjects