To register for the MCAT go to: AAMC MCAT Home.
Essential and current information about the MCAT is provided by the AAMC.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- When should I take the MCAT? You should submit the primary application for allopathic medical schools (AMCAS) by the end of June. Most people want to know their MCAT score before submitting an application; therefore, they take the MCAT by the end of May during the year they apply. It takes about 30 days to receive your score. The best time to take the MCAT is when you are well prepared. For some people this means an August test date and for others a March test date. A conversation with a pre-health advisor can help you decide on a test date. You should not plan to sit for the MCAT as practice for a future test date. Scores from every test date are reported to schools.
- How long will my MCAT score be valid? Most medical schools will accept scores that are up to three years old; however, each school has its own policy as to the oldest accepted MCAT score. Consult the Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) Online, published annually by the AAMC, or the websites of individual schools for information.
- Are fee waivers available for the MCAT? The AAMC offers a Fee Assistance Program (FAP). Applicants approved for the FAP can register for the MCAT at a reduced rate. More information can be obtained from the AAMC FAP Home.
- Are testing accommodations available for the MCAT? Information regarding accommodations and the online application are at the AAMC MCAT with Accommodations Home.
- Is taking an MCAT test prep course necessary? While Career Services does not endorse MCAT prep companies, some students find the structure of an MCAT prep course helpful. However, many people who can study in a disciplined way have been successful studying independently. The AAMC also has a helpful online guide, How to Create a Study Plan for the New MCAT Exam.
- Can I take the MCAT twice? Ideally, you should take the MCAT one time as all scores are reported to medical schools. If you feel that you have not performed to your potential, you may want to take the exam a second time. This is a good conversation to have with a pre-health advisor.
