If you’re planning to apply to medical school, one big milestone stands between you and your acceptance letter: the MCAT, or Medical College Admission Test. This standardized exam is required by most medical schools in the U.S. and Canada, and it plays a major role in your application. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — from what the test is, to how to study, when to take it, and what makes a good score.
What is the MCAT?
The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a multiple-choice exam that measures your ability to think critically, solve problems, and apply knowledge from the natural, behavioral, and social sciences. It’s broken into four sections:
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (B/B)
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (C/P)
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (P/S)
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
What is a Good MCAT Score?
The MCAT is scored on a scale of 472 to 528. While every school has different expectations, we recommend a score of around 510–511. A score of 515 or higher is typically considered very competitive. Remember that “good” is relative — the best score is the one that makes you a strong candidate for the schools on your list.
How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT?
The AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) limits how often you can sit for the exam:
- Up to 3 times per testing year
- Up to 4 times in two consecutive years
- Up to 7 times total in your lifetime
Because of these limits, it’s important to be fully prepared before test day.
How Do I Study for the MCAT?
Most students spend 3–6 months preparing, putting in a total of about 300–500 study hours. If you have other commitments (like work or school), planning a longer timeline may be more realistic. A balanced study plan should include:
- Reviewing high-yield content in biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology
- Practicing reading and reasoning skills for CARS
- Taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Reviewing mistakes carefully to identify weak areas
Consistency is key — building steady daily or weekly study habits often works better than cramming. MCAT Bootcamp offers a CARS study guide that takes out the guesswork from your study schedule.
What to Expect on Test Day
The MCAT is a multiple-choice test, and everything you need will be provided at the testing center. Here’s what you should bring:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Snacks and drinks to keep in your locker for breaks
- Any approved personal comfort items (like earplugs)
You won’t be allowed to bring your own calculator — and you won’t need one, since the test is designed for hand calculations.
When Should I Take the MCAT?
Most students take the MCAT in the spring or early summer of the year they plan to apply to medical school. This way, scores are ready by the time applications open in late May or early June. Taking it earlier also gives you a chance to retest if needed.
When Do MCAT Scores Come Out?
After test day, scores are typically released 30–35 days later. You can check your test release date on the AAMC website.
How Long Are MCAT Scores Valid?
Most medical schools accept scores that are up to three years old, though the exact cutoff can vary. Always check the policies of the schools you plan to apply to.
The MCAT is a challenging exam, but with the right preparation and planning, it’s absolutely manageable. Focus on steady progress, give yourself enough time to study, and choose a test date that aligns with your application timeline. A good score can open doors — but remember, it’s only one piece of your application.
