Is the Achievement Gap Closing for MCAT® Examinees Who Are Underrepresented in Medicine? (Poster 51)

• In Event: Saturday Poster Session 1:15 pm
  In Poster Session: Division I Poster Session 2

Abstract

Average MCAT score differences between White examinees and underrepresented in medicine (URM) racial/ethnic groups (e.g., Black and Hispanic) have decreased over the last three decades. We sought to understand the reason for this change and hypothesized it was a result of fluctuating percentages among subgroups (e.g., Columbian, Puerto Rican) within each broader race/ethnicity variable (e.g., Hispanic/Latino). Results indicate subgroup percentages has largely remained stable. We conclude alternative explanations (e.g., improved information outreach and access to free exam preparation resources) are likely responsible for decreasing average group score differences. Further, we believe these findings lend some, albeit limited, evidence the achievement gap between majority groups and URMs may be closing in the medical education admissions arena.

Authors

• Andrea Carpentieri, Association of American Medical Colleges

• Ying Jin, Association of American Medical Colleges

• Kenneth Royal, Association of American Medical Colleges

• Marc H. Kroopnick, Association of American Medical Colleges