The alternative is, if you are not using the MEP, you could let the MEP lapse and renew both in April.
IR date will be unchanged (ie 12 months from previous expiry), MEP date will be valid 12 months from date of test.
Only difference is you will be renewing the MEP instead of revalidating. But no difference to the test as far as I know.
But only consider this if you are not planning to fly a twin between now and then.