What is MCAT Exam?: A Step-by-Step Guide

‘Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love for humanity.’ This irrepressible quote by Hippocrates should ring true in your case, if you’ve chosen to pursue this noble profession. So what should be your first move? MCAT Registration, considering how it helps you get admission into leading medical schools in the US and Canada. 

And it’s a great time to embark on a medical career in the US, considering how the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates 3% of job growth for physicians and surgeons between 2021 and 2031. Simultaneously, 23,800 openings for these professions are forecasted each year throughout this decade, while the median pay in 2021 stood at a handsome $208,000 annually. All things said and done, becoming a doctor or medical professional is indeed a life-altering decision. Here is a guide on how to register for MCAT and some other helpful details. 

Know More About : MCAT Syllabus | MCAT Eligibility |

MCAT Highlights Table 

Aspect	Detail
MCAT Full Form	Medical College Admission Test
Conducting Body	Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
Exam Frequency	Multiple times a year
Duration	7 hours and 30 minutes
Cost	$335 (+$120 for International students outside the US, Canada, or US Territories)
Max Score	528
Average Score	500

What is MCAT? 

The MCAT examination is a multiple-choice and standardized computer-based test which has been an integral part of the admission procedure for leading medical schools in the US and Canada for close to a century. More than 85,000 students appear annually for the examination as per the official website. Almost all medical schools across Canada and the USA accept MCAT scores, while many other graduate programs also take these scores in place of other standardized examinations. The examination is divided into four sections, which should give you an idea of the MCAT syllabus to follow. 

These are the following: 

• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
• Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
• Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills

The test is administered by the AAMC several times every year between January and September at several sites throughout Canada and the US, along with other select global locations. The examination may be taken three times in a calendar year and four times in two years. The maximum limit is seven times in a lifetime. The MCAT score report comprises individual section scores (for all four sections) and a combined total figure. Each section score varies between 118 and 132. The total score ranges between 472 and 528. Scores are usually reported by 30-35 days after the date of the examination.

Why is MCAT Important

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a computer-based standardized examination for prospective medical students who want to study in the United States or other US Territories. Its importance stems from its comprehensive evaluation of a candidate's readiness for medical education and future practice. The MCAT tests the knowledge and skills that medical schools consider to be most directly relevant to success in this field. Thus, the MCAT tests these competencies to determine if applicants have an appropriate foundation in the fundamental concepts essential for a career in medicine. In addition, because the exam is standardized, medical schools can use this tool to measure all students regardless of their background.

MCAT Accepting Universities

The MCAT is recognized and accepted by a wide range of medical schools across the globe.  

University	MCAT Score
Harvard Medical School	520
Stanford University School of Medicine	520
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine	521
Yale School of Medicine	522
University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine	500

Eligibility Criteria for MCAT Examination 

An aspirant is considered eligible to appear for the MCAT if he/she is planning to apply to any health professional school.

This includes the following: 

• Programs that grant MD
• Programs granting DO
• DPM or Podiatric
• DVM or Veterinary Medicine
• Any other health-linked program taking MCAT scores for admissions 

Upon registering for the MCAT, you have to agree to an official statement that verifies your intentions of applying to a health professions school. But what are the MCAT eligibility criteria for Indian students or other international aspirants? 

Here are some key points worth noting: 

• There are no extra criteria for international aspirants. 
• Those currently pursuing/holders of MBBS degree programs or any equivalent may register without any need for special permission. 
• You may require transcripts accepted by any accredited Canadian post-secondary/U.S. Territorial/U.S. institution. The AMCAS GPA also has to be calculated thereafter. 
• Those taking coursework as non-degree students will require 30 credit hours or even more for their progress, completing the same before applying. 
• Verified citizenship and visa status. 
• Language proficiency proof. 

Special permission is needed for those not planning to apply to any health profession school or those enrolled presently as medical students (with the exception of MBBS or equivalent). This is possible by sending an email to mcat@aamc.org. 

Is MCAT Available in India

Unfortunately, MCAT is unavailable in India for aspirants. It is only offered in the following international locations, apart from the US and Canada: 

• China
• Australia
• France 
• Israel
• Germany
• Japan
• Qatar
• Lebanon
• Singapore
• Thailand
• South Africa
• Taiwan 
• UK (United Kingdom)

However, Indian aspirants can always fly to their nearest locations in order to take the examination.

MCAT Registration 2024

Registering for the MCAT in 2024 involves several essential steps. First, candidates must create an account on the AAMC website. Once registered, they can select a test date and location from the available options, keeping in mind that early booking is advised due to high demand. Completing the registration form accurately with personal and academic details is crucial. Candidates must then pay the registration fee, although fee assistance is available for those who qualify. If accommodations for disabilities or health-related needs are required, applicants should submit the necessary documentation during registration. Upon successful registration, a confirmation email with the test date and location details will be sent to the candidate.

MCAT 2024 Registration Process

You should check the MCAT registration dates carefully. The examination is available several times this year between January and March till September. Registration is already open for the July-September MCAT testing dates. Scheduling is also available currently for the dates between March and June. You have to first register for your AAMC account in order to complete registration by filling up all your details and paying the testing fees.

MCAT Fee Assistance Program Fees

The AAMC Fee Assistance Program provides support to individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford the MCAT, apply to medical schools that use the American Medical College Application Service, and more. Registering for the program requires a fee of $140.

MCAT Registration Cost 2023

Here is a snapshot of the registration costs for the MCAT in 2024: 

• Standard Registration Charge- $335
• Fee Assistance Program Registration- $140
• Those testing outside the US will have to pay an additional $120 as the international fee, which is non-refundable upon the cancellation of registration. 

MCAT Registration Cost 2023 for Rescheduling & Cancellation

Here are the rescheduling and cancellation costs for MCAT: 

• 60 or more days prior to the examination- $50 in rescheduling fee (test center and/or date) and $165 in the cancellation refund. 
• 30-59 days prior to the examination- $100 as the rescheduling fee and $165 as the cancellation refund. 
• 10-29 days prior to the examination- $200 in rescheduling fee. There is no cancellation refund for this period. 

The Fee Assistance Program Change fees are $20 and $70 in rescheduling fees and cancellation refunds for 60 or more days prior to the examination. They are also $40 and $70 in these categories, respectively, for 30-59 days prior to the test.

MCAT Exam with Accommodation

Candidates with disabilities or health-related needs can apply for accommodation to ensure they have equal access to the MCAT. Accommodation may include extended time, additional breaks, and other specific aids.

Scheduling MCAT Test

Scheduling your MCAT test involves choosing a test date and location that fits your preparation timeline. It's recommended to schedule your test several months in advance to secure your preferred date and location.

MCAT Exam Dates 2024

Test Date	60 Day Deadline	30 Day Deadline	10 Day Deadline	Score Release Date
1 June	2 April	2 May	22 May	2 July
14 June	15 April	15 May	4 June	16 July
15 June	16 April	16 May	5 June	16 July
22 June	23 April	23 May	12 June	23 July
27 June	28 April	28 May	17 June	30 July
13 July	14 May	13 June	3 July	13 August
26 July	27 May	26 June	16 July	27 August
2 August	3 June	3 July	23 July	4 September
17 August	18 June	18 July	7 August	17 September
23 August	24 June	24 July	13 August	24 September
24 August	25 June	25 July	14 August	24 September
5 September	7 July	6 August	26 August	8 October
6 September	8 July	7 August	27 August	8 October
13 September	15 July	14 August	3 September	15 October
14 September	16 July	15 August	4 September	15 October

MCAT Exam Pattern 

The examination pattern for the MCAT is the following: 

1. Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems- 59 questions and 95 minutes. 
2. Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills- 53 questions and 90 minutes (all passage-based questions). 
3. Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems- 59 questions and 95 minutes. 
4. Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior- 59 questions and 95 minutes.

MCAT Syllabus

The MCAT syllabus has four sections.

Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems

This section tests your knowledge of biological and biochemical concepts, processes, and principles.

Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems

This section assesses your understanding of the chemical and physical principles that underlie the mechanisms operating in the human body.

Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior

This section evaluates your knowledge of the behavioral and social sciences as they apply to health and wellness.

Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills

This section measures your ability to analyze, evaluate, and apply information from a wide range of social sciences and humanities disciplines.

MCAT Scores

MCAT scores are reported in four sections, each scored from 118 to 132, with a total score range of 472 to 528. A competitive score varies depending on the medical schools you are applying to.

MCAT vs NEET

The MCAT and NEET are both medical entrance exams, but they are used in different countries and have distinct formats and syllabus. The MCAT is used primarily in the USA and Canada, while NEET is used in India.

MCAT Preparation

Effective MCAT preparation requires a strategic and disciplined approach.

• Begin by understanding the exam's format and content, covering topics in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, psychology, sociology, and critical analysis. 
• Create a detailed study plan, ideally starting 6-12 months in advance, with specific goals and scheduled study times. 
• Gather high-quality study materials, including prep books, online resources, and practice tests. Focus on mastering content, memorizing key concepts and formulas, and honing critical analysis skills. 
• Develop test-taking strategies, such as time management and stress reduction techniques. Regularly take practice tests to simulate the exam experience and adjust your study plan based on your performance. 
• Seek additional support through tutoring, study groups, and online forums. 
• In the final month, concentrate on full-length practice tests and high-yield content reviews to maximize your readiness.

MCAT Preparation Resources

There are numerous resources available for MCAT preparation, including:

• Official AAMC resources
• Prep books from various publishers
• Online courses and tutoring
• Study groups and forums

Courses After MCAT

After successfully clearing the MCAT, you can pursue various medical programs, including:

• MD (Doctor of Medicine)
• DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine)
• Dual degree programs (e.g., MD/PhD)

What Should You Aim For in MCAT

Aiming for a score that is competitive for the medical schools you are applying to is crucial. Research the average accepted scores of your target schools to set a realistic goal. On average, 500 is the midpoint score and is considered a good score.

When and How Can You Retake MCAT Test

You can retake the MCAT up to three times in a single testing year, four times over two consecutive years, and seven times in a lifetime. If you need to retake the test, it's essential to analyze your previous performance and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Conclusion

MCAT registration is a great way to embark on a fulfilling global medical career by striving to get admission into a leading medical school. Ensure that you adhere to all the regulations concerning the examination while checking the official website periodically for updates.