The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is an important part of the medical school admissions process. Each year, more than 85,000 medical school hopefuls sit for the test, as nearly all Doctor of Medicine (MD) programs require MCAT scores as part of their med school application.
The exam tests participants on their knowledge and skills of topics that have been identified as prerequisites for medical success. This includes information that will have been covered in your undergraduate science courses.
Medical school admissions committees consider a variety of factors when reviewing applications, and the MCAT test score is typically one of the important components in the overall evaluation. Preparing for the MCAT is a significant step on your path to medical school. To help you approach it with confidence, we’ve provided a detailed overview of the exam format along with insights on when to consider taking the test.
When do you take the MCAT?
As you prepare, it’s important to first look into the timing of the MCAT exam as part of the medical school application process. It will help you to map out your journey toward medical school accordingly. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) administers the test multiple times each year, from late January to September.
So, when should you take the MCAT?
Most pre-med students take the MCAT the year before they plan to start medical school. Some examinees are more comfortable factoring in extra time in case they decide to retake the exam and hopefully receive a better score.
Do note, however, that medical schools will be able to see all your scores, and there are specified testing limits in place. You can only sit for the MCAT three times in a calendar year, four times over the course of two years, and seven times in total.
How to register for the MCAT exam
What is the MCAT test format?
The MCAT is presented in a multiple-choice, computer-based format. The current format has 230 questions divided into four sections:
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems tests your knowledge of basic biology, biochemistry, as well as organic and inorganic chemistry.
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems focuses mainly on general chemistry, basic biochemistry, organic chemistry, and physics.
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior focuses on psychology, sociology, and biology concepts that help explain how behavior, culture, and biology affect health.
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills includes reading comprehension sections like other standardized tests with topics on humanities and social sciences.
In addition, each section of the exam evaluates your understanding of research methods and statistics, as well as your ability to apply scientific thinking to real-world problems within that subject area.
Be prepared to spend the entire day at your testing site, as the exam lasts seven and a half hours with some breaks spread throughout. Students will receive five results from their exam—one for each of the four sections accompanied by one combined total score.
Prepare for the MCAT
Now that you have more information about the MCAT exam format and ideal timing, you can feel confident in preparing for this important milestone on the path to becoming a doctor. Performing well on this exam can set you up for success for your career in medicine.
Getting ready for the MCAT has many facets. We have gathered several resources to help you understand different aspects of the exam.
- MCAT Prep Materials: The Pre-Med Student’s Guide
- MCAT Resources to Help You Feel Confident and Prepared
- MCAT Sections: A Detailed Breakdown
- How Long Is the MCAT? Uncovering the Facts You Need to Know to Be Prepared
- What Is a Good MCAT Score? Understanding Your Results
- How to Study for the MCAT: 6 Tips and Tricks to Try
- MCAT Test Prep: 4 Tips for Success
- How Many Times Can You Retake the MCAT? Important Considerations for Retaking the Exam
Have you been thinking about applying to medical school but have more questions?
Remember that taking the MCAT test is only one step in the larger Journey to Becoming an MD. At St. George’s University, discover how our holistic and supportive approach to admissions goes beyond test scores and grades to focus on what truly sets you apart as a future medical professional. Discover how we can help you take the next step to make your career dreams come true.
*This article was updated from April 2022 with updated information.
