The MCAT is one of the most important factors in medical school admissions, but it is not the only one. While a high score can strengthen your application, a lower score does not always mean rejection. Many applicants wonder, “What is the lowest MCAT score that can still get me into medical school?” The answer depends on several factors, including the type of program, the applicant’s overall profile, and the specific school’s admissions criteria.
According to the AAMC, the average MCAT score for accepted students in U.S. MD programs is 511.9, while DO programs tend to accept applicants with slightly lower averages, around 504–506. However, some schools have accepted applicants with scores in the 490s, particularly osteopathic and Caribbean medical schools.
This guide explores what counts as a “low” MCAT, which schools have historically accepted lower scores, and what steps you can take to strengthen your application even with a less-than-ideal result.
Key Takeaways:
- There is no universal minimum MCAT score. Each medical school sets its own criteria, and some consider applicants with scores below 500.
- MD programs typically expect higher MCAT scores than DO or international programs. For U.S. MD schools, scores under 502 are often considered uncompetitive, while DO schools may accept scores in the high 490s.
- A strong GPA, exceptional extracurriculars, and compelling personal statements can sometimes offset a lower MCAT.
- Caribbean and international medical schools often accept students with MCAT scores as low as 490, but they come with their own risks and considerations.
- Retaking the MCAT may be a better option if your score is significantly below the average for your target schools.
In the sections ahead, we will break down MCAT score ranges, highlight schools that have historically accepted lower scores, and offer strategies to improve your chances of admission.
What Counts as a Low MCAT Score?
Understanding what qualifies as a “low” MCAT score is essential for any aspiring medical student. The definition varies significantly depending on the type of medical program you’re applying to, the competitiveness of the school, and how admissions committees weigh other elements of your application.
National MCAT Score Averages
According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the average MCAT score among all test takers typically hovers around 500 to 502. However, for students matriculating into U.S. MD programs, this average is substantially higher, around 511.9. For DO programs, the average matriculant MCAT score is slightly lower, approximately 504.3.
| Program Type | Average MCAT Score for Matriculants |
|---|---|
| U.S. MD Programs | 511.9 |
| U.S. DO Programs | 504.3 |
| Caribbean Medical Schools | Typically 490–500 |
This means:
- Scores below 500 are generally considered low for most MD programs.
- Scores in the 490–500 range may be competitive for many DO schools and Caribbean medical programs.
- Scores below 490 significantly reduce chances at U.S. medical schools but may still be acceptable in some international programs.
Medical Schools Known to Accept Lower MCAT Scores
While many schools do not publish explicit MCAT cutoffs, several institutions are recognized for accepting students with MCAT scores below the national MD average. Here are some examples:
- Mercer University School of Medicine has a median accepted MCAT score of around 503, making it one of the more accessible MD programs.
- Meharry Medical College, a historically Black medical school, has matriculants with MCAT scores as low as 494–498. They emphasize holistic review processes and a strong commitment to serving underserved communities.
- Howard University College of Medicine also reports matriculants with MCAT scores in the high 490s and low 500s, reflecting its inclusive admissions approach.
- University of Mississippi School of Medicine reportedly screens out applicants with MCAT scores below 493, indicating that scores just under 500 can still be competitive.
- Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM) has median accepted MCAT scores around 503, reflecting the generally more flexible standards of DO programs.
- Caribbean medical schools such as St. George’s University and Ross University typically accept MCAT scores as low as 490, although their admissions processes and academic environments differ substantially from U.S. schools.
Percentiles and How They Impact Competitiveness
MCAT scores correspond to percentiles that illustrate how a score compares nationally. For example, a score of 500 roughly corresponds to the 50th percentile, meaning you scored better than half of all test takers. A score of 510 is near the 80th percentile, and 515+ is in the 90th percentile or higher.
Because medical schools are highly competitive, even a small difference in percentile can affect your chances. A “low” score often means you’re below the 50th percentile for accepted students at many MD programs.
Beyond the MCAT Score
Admissions committees conduct holistic reviews of applicants, so a low MCAT score can sometimes be offset by strengths in other areas.
- Undergraduate GPA: Strong academic performance can balance out a lower MCAT score.
- Clinical and Volunteer Experience: Demonstrates dedication and understanding of the medical profession.
- Research: Particularly valued at research-oriented schools.
- Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendation: Provide insight into your character and motivation.
- Interview Performance: Your interpersonal skills and fit for the program matter significantly.
What This Means for You
If your MCAT score falls below the median for your target schools, it’s important to be strategic:
- Consider applying to schools known for accepting lower MCAT scores, especially DO or Caribbean programs.
- Strengthen other parts of your application to compensate.
- Evaluate whether retaking the MCAT to improve your score is feasible.
Medical Schools That Have Accepted Low MCAT Scores
If your MCAT score is lower than you hoped, don’t assume medical school is out of reach. Several U.S. and international programs have a history of admitting students with MCAT scores below the national average. Knowing which schools have accepted lower scores in the past can help you build a realistic and strategic school list.
U.S. MD Programs with Historically Lower MCAT Averages
While most allopathic (MD) programs are highly competitive, a few have median MCAT scores that are slightly more forgiving. These schools tend to prioritize holistic admissions, focusing on applicants’ commitment to medicine and service in underserved areas.
| School Name | Median MCAT Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Meharry Medical College | 503 | Focuses on training physicians to serve underserved communities (source) |
| Howard University College of Medicine | 504 | Strong emphasis on diversity and holistic applicant review (source) |
| Morehouse School of Medicine | 504 | Mission-driven admissions favoring underserved populations (source) |
| University of Mississippi Medical Center | 504 | Prefers in-state applicants; reported screening MCAT floor of 493 (source) |
These programs are ideal for applicants with slightly below-average MCAT scores who can demonstrate strong GPAs, community involvement, and a clear alignment with the school’s mission.
U.S. DO Programs Accepting Lower MCAT Scores
Osteopathic medical schools (DO programs) are generally more flexible with MCAT scores than their MD counterparts. They emphasize a holistic approach to medicine and value qualities like compassion, leadership, and hands-on patient care experience.
| School Name | Median MCAT Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM) | 503 | Prioritizes students from rural or underserved areas (source) |
| Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) | 502 | Campuses across multiple states; strong focus on primary care (source) |
| Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM) | 503 | Emphasis on serving medically underserved areas (source) |
| Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) | 504 | One of the largest DO schools; multiple campuses and flexible programs (source) |
Some DO programs have reportedly accepted students with MCAT scores in the 490–495 range, especially if other application components are strong.
Caribbean and International Medical Schools
Caribbean medical schools are often more lenient with MCAT requirements and may admit students with scores as low as 490 or even slightly lower. However, prospective students should research these schools carefully, as they vary significantly in quality, residency match rates, and student support services.
| School Name | Typical Accepted MCAT Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| St. George’s University (SGU) | 490–500 | Strong clinical rotations in U.S. hospitals (source) |
| Ross University School of Medicine | 490–500 | Focus on U.S. residency placements; flexible admissions (source) |
| American University of the Caribbean (AUC) | 490–500 | Offers small class sizes and U.S.-style curriculum (source) |
While these programs offer opportunities to applicants with lower MCAT scores, it’s crucial to weigh factors like accreditation, USMLE Step 1 pass rates, and residency match success before applying.
Why Knowing These Schools Matters
Identifying schools that have accepted lower MCAT scores allows you to focus your efforts strategically. Applying to a mix of MD, DO, and (if appropriate) Caribbean programs ensures you maximize your chances while avoiding wasted applications at highly competitive schools where your score may not be viable.
How Admissions Committees View Low MCAT Scores and Compensating Factors
A lower-than-average MCAT score is not an automatic rejection at every medical school. Admissions committees evaluate applicants holistically, meaning they consider a range of academic, personal, and professional factors alongside standardized test scores. Understanding how they interpret a “low” MCAT can help you better position your application.
The Role of the MCAT in Admissions
The MCAT is designed to assess your critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and foundational knowledge of science and medicine. While most schools weigh it heavily in their decision-making process, many use it as part of a bigger picture rather than a standalone gatekeeper.
- For highly competitive MD programs, scores below 502 often make it difficult to secure interviews.
- DO programs tend to be more flexible, considering scores in the high 490s if other application components are exceptional.
- International and Caribbean schools may place less emphasis on the MCAT but often assess candidates for academic preparedness in other ways.
Some schools even employ MCAT “screening thresholds” (e.g., University of Mississippi reportedly screens out applicants below 493), while others explicitly state they have no minimum but still prefer competitive scores.
What Can Compensate for a Low MCAT?
Admissions committees are often willing to overlook a lower MCAT score if you excel in other areas of your application:
1. High Undergraduate GPA
A strong GPA (particularly in science courses) demonstrates academic consistency and readiness for the rigors of medical school. For example, a 3.8 GPA with a 500 MCAT may appear more promising than a 3.2 GPA with a 512 MCAT.
2. Exceptional Clinical and Volunteer Experience
Significant hands-on exposure to patient care or volunteer work shows your commitment to medicine. Schools focused on primary care and serving underserved populations value this highly.
3. Research and Leadership Roles
Extensive research experience, publications, or leadership in student organizations can strengthen your application, especially at programs with strong research components.
4. Compelling Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendation
A personal statement that tells a powerful, authentic story, combined with glowing letters from mentors or physicians, can leave a lasting impression.
5. Outstanding Interview Performance
Some applicants with lower MCAT scores secure interviews and ultimately acceptance by impressing committees with their interpersonal skills, professionalism, and passion for medicine.
Trends in Holistic Admissions
Many medical schools now embrace holistic admissions models, as recommended by the AAMC. This approach considers applicants’ experiences, attributes, and academic metrics together rather than focusing on any single factor.
Programs such as Meharry, Howard, and many DO schools are well-known for employing this model to evaluate candidates beyond numbers.
While a low MCAT score presents challenges, it’s not the end of your medical school journey. Applicants with strong GPAs, meaningful experiences, and excellent communication skills can and do get accepted to programs that value diverse paths into medicine.
Should You Retake the MCAT?
Deciding whether to retake the MCAT is one of the most common dilemmas for pre-med students. A single attempt requires months of preparation, significant financial investment, and mental energy. So, how do you know if retaking is the right move?
The answer depends on your current score, your target schools, and how confident you are in improving your performance.
When Retaking the MCAT Makes Sense
Retaking the MCAT is a strategic option if:
1. Your Score Is Below 500, and You’re Targeting U.S. MD Programs
Most MD programs have matriculant MCAT averages between 508–515. If your score is well below this range, retaking may be necessary unless you plan to shift focus to DO or international schools.
2. Your Score Is Below the 10th Percentile for Your Target Schools
For example, if a school’s middle 50% MCAT range is 507–514, a score below 507 places you outside their usual applicant pool.
3. You Did Not Prepare Adequately the First Time
If you took the MCAT without sufficient preparation and now have the time and resources to study properly, a retake can lead to a substantial score increase.
4. Your Practice Test Scores Were Consistently Higher
If your actual MCAT score was lower than your practice exam averages (e.g., you consistently scored 510–512 on AAMC practice tests but earned a 502 on test day), a retake could align your official score with your proven ability.
When You May Not Need to Retake
A retake might not be necessary if:
1. Your Score Aligns With DO or Caribbean School Averages
If your MCAT is in the 490–503 range, many DO and international programs consider such scores acceptable when paired with strong GPAs and experiences.
2. You Have an Exceptionally Strong Application in Other Areas
Applicants with extensive clinical experience, a stellar GPA, and a compelling narrative sometimes get accepted despite lower MCAT scores, especially at schools with holistic admissions.
3. You’re Unlikely to Improve Significantly
Statistically, about 30% of retakers score lower on their second attempt. If you’ve already invested maximum effort into your first attempt, retaking may not result in meaningful gains.
Strategies if You Choose to Retake
If you decide to take the MCAT again:
- Assess Your Weak Areas: Use your MCAT score report to identify sections that need improvement.
- Build a Structured Study Plan: Allocate 3–6 months for intensive preparation, focusing on content review and full-length practice tests.
- Consider Professional Prep Courses: Programs like Kaplan or Princeton Review offer comprehensive resources and structured timelines.
- Aim for a Target Score Based on Schools’ Medians: Research median MCAT scores of your desired programs and use them as your goal.
Retaking the MCAT is not always necessary, but it can make a significant difference if your current score is far from your target schools’ averages. Careful self-assessment and a solid study plan are critical to making your next attempt your best one.
Strategies for Applying with a Low MCAT
A lower MCAT score does not mean the end of your dream to become a physician. Many applicants with scores below national averages have successfully matriculated into medical schools by leveraging other strengths in their applications. Here’s how you can make your application stand out, even with a less-than-ideal MCAT score.
Can I get into Medical School with a LOW GPA or LOW MCAT? | Super Simple Step by Step Guide
1. Target Schools That Value Holistic Admissions
Focus on programs known for reviewing applications holistically rather than heavily relying on metrics like the MCAT. Schools like Meharry Medical College, Howard University, and many osteopathic programs (DO) assess applicants’ personal experiences, commitment to service, and life challenges as key factors in admissions.
2. Strengthen Your Academic Profile
While your MCAT may be lower, you can still showcase academic excellence:
- Maintain or Improve GPA: A high cumulative GPA (especially in science courses) demonstrates your ability to handle rigorous coursework.
- Complete Post-Baccalaureate or Special Master’s Programs (SMPs): These programs allow you to prove academic readiness for medical school. Programs like those offered by Georgetown or Boston University have strong placement records for medical school.
3. Build a Strong Narrative in Your Application
A compelling story about your journey to medicine can help admissions committees see beyond your MCAT score:
- Personal Statement: Share meaningful experiences that shaped your decision to pursue medicine. Highlight resilience, growth, and commitment.
- Letters of Recommendation: Secure letters from mentors and physicians who can attest to your character, work ethic, and potential as a medical student.
4. Gain Extensive Clinical and Volunteer Experience
Demonstrating direct patient care experience and service to underserved communities can offset a lower MCAT:
- Clinical Roles: Work as a scribe, medical assistant, EMT, or volunteer in hospitals and clinics.
- Community Service: Consistent volunteer work highlights your dedication to helping others, a core quality sought by medical schools.
Programs like LMU-DCOM and VCOM particularly value applicants with a proven record of serving rural or underserved populations (LMU-DCOM Admissions).
5. Excel in the Interview Process
Many applicants with low MCAT scores make a strong impression during interviews. Prepare thoroughly:
- Practice common medical school interview questions.
- Be ready to discuss your MCAT score honestly if asked, framing it as a learning experience and highlighting how you’ve grown.
- Show genuine enthusiasm, maturity, and communication skills—qualities that cannot be measured by standardized tests.
6. Consider Broader Application Options
If U.S. MD programs feel out of reach, consider:
- DO Programs: These are often more forgiving of MCAT scores and emphasize a patient-centered approach.
- Caribbean Medical Schools: Schools like St. George’s University and Ross University offer pathways to a medical degree for students with lower MCATs, though applicants should weigh residency match rates and program quality carefully.
A low MCAT score is only one part of your application. With a strategic focus on your academic record, clinical experience, and personal story, you can still present yourself as a strong candidate for many medical programs.
Risks of Attending Medical School with a Low MCAT
While getting into medical school with a low MCAT score is possible, it’s important to understand the potential challenges that may arise during and after medical school. Being aware of these risks allows you to make informed decisions about where to apply and how to prepare for the journey ahead.
1. Struggles With Academic Rigor
Medical school is academically demanding, and students admitted with lower MCAT scores may face a steeper learning curve. The MCAT is designed to predict how well students will handle the preclinical curriculum, so lower scores can sometimes correlate with difficulties in coursework such as anatomy, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
Why it matters:
According to a study published in Academic Medicine, MCAT scores have a moderate correlation with performance on medical school exams and board licensing tests.
2. Lower USMLE Step Scores
Students who enter medical school with weaker foundational knowledge may struggle on the USMLE Step exams (for MDs) or COMLEX-USA exams (for DOs). These tests are crucial for residency placement.
- A lower Step 1 or Step 2 score can limit access to competitive specialties like dermatology, orthopedic surgery, or radiology.
- Even for the primary care fields, residency programs may have score thresholds that can be difficult to meet.
3. Residency Match Challenges
Residency match rates differ significantly between U.S. MD, DO, and international medical graduates (IMGs). According to the 2024 NRMP Match Data:
| Applicant Type | Match Rate |
|---|---|
| U.S. MD Seniors | 93.6% |
| U.S. DO Seniors | 91.3% |
| U.S. Citizen IMGs | 61.0% |
| Non-U.S. Citizen IMGs | 57.1% |
Students attending Caribbean or international schools, where lower MCAT scores are more commonly accepted, often fall into the IMG category and face steeper odds in the Match process.
4. Financial Considerations
Medical school is an enormous financial commitment. Programs that accept students with lower MCAT scores—especially international and Caribbean schools—can have higher tuition and living costs, combined with lower financial aid availability.
Example:
- U.S. MD/DO programs: Average tuition ~$60,000/year
- Caribbean schools: Tuition often exceeds $70,000/year plus relocation costs
5. Emotional and Mental Health Challenges
Students entering with lower MCAT scores may feel increased pressure to prove themselves academically, which can contribute to stress and burnout. Support systems and academic resources vary widely between schools, so researching these aspects before committing is critical.
Mitigating These Risks
You can minimize these risks by:
- Choosing a program with strong academic support services.
- Building effective study habits during your pre-med years or post-bacc programs.
- Prioritizing schools with high USMLE/COMLEX pass rates.
- Focusing early on residency application strategies and networking.
Attending medical school with a low MCAT score is not inherently risky, but it does require careful planning and awareness of potential challenges. A strong work ethic and proactive approach can help you overcome these obstacles and succeed in your medical career.
How to Build a Balanced School List with a Low MCAT
If your MCAT score is lower than you hoped, choosing the right medical schools to apply to is critical. A balanced school list increases your chances of acceptance while helping you avoid wasting time, effort, and money on programs where admission is unlikely. Here’s how to create a targeted, realistic application strategy.
1. Understand the Three Tiers of Your School List
Your list should include a mix of “reach,” “target,” and “safety” schools:
- Reach Schools: Programs where your MCAT is below their 10th percentile for accepted students. Applying here is ambitious but not impossible, especially if other parts of your application are strong.
- Target Schools: Programs where your MCAT is near or slightly below their median score but where holistic admissions processes may work in your favor.
- Safety Schools: Programs where your MCAT is at or above their median for matriculants. For applicants with scores below 500, these may include many DO and international medical schools.
2. Focus on Schools With Holistic Admissions
Some medical schools place less weight on MCAT scores and more on life experiences, community service, and personal attributes. Examples include:
- Meharry Medical College
- Howard University College of Medicine
- Morehouse School of Medicine
- Many osteopathic schools like VCOM, LMU-DCOM, and ACOM
These programs value diverse backgrounds and nontraditional paths to medicine.
3. Include DO Schools in Your Strategy
Osteopathic schools tend to accept students with lower MCAT scores and prioritize applicants with strong GPAs, healthcare experience, and a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care. According to AACOM, DO matriculants have an average MCAT of 504.3, but some programs accept students in the high 490s.
4. Consider Caribbean and International Options Cautiously
Caribbean schools like St. George’s University (SGU) and Ross University accept applicants with MCAT scores as low as 490. However, you must weigh potential downsides such as:
- Lower USMLE Step pass rates
- Residency match challenges
- Higher tuition and living expenses
Only consider these schools if you’ve thoroughly researched their outcomes and are prepared for the additional hurdles.
5. Research School-Specific Data
Use tools like the MSAR (Medical School Admission Requirements) database for MD programs, and choose DO Explorer for DO programs to compare:
- Median MCAT scores
- 10th percentile MCAT scores
- Acceptance rates for in-state vs. out-of-state applicants
- Mission statements and priorities (aligning your story with their mission strengthens your case)
6. Apply Broadly
With a lower MCAT, increasing the number of applications can improve your odds. The AAMC reports that students who apply to 16 or more schools have significantly higher acceptance rates than those who apply to fewer than 10.
Example of a Balanced School List (MCAT: 498, GPA: 3.6)
| School Type | Number of Schools | Example Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Reach (MD Programs) | 5 | Meharry, Howard, University of Mississippi |
| Target (DO Programs) | 7 | VCOM, LMU-DCOM, ACOM |
| Safety (Caribbean Schools) | 3 | SGU, Ross, AUC |
| Total | 15 |
A well-researched and balanced school list is your best defense against the uncertainty of applying with a lower MCAT. Combine schools that align with your strengths, prioritize holistic admissions, and offer realistic chances for acceptance.
Conclusion: Turning a Low MCAT Into a Strong Application
A low MCAT score can feel discouraging, but it doesn’t have to end your medical school journey. Many successful physicians began their path with scores below the national average, relying instead on strong GPAs, exceptional clinical experiences, and compelling personal stories to stand out.
By applying strategically—targeting schools with holistic admissions, expanding your list to include DO and international programs, and leveraging every other strength in your application, you can keep your dream alive.
If you believe you can significantly improve, a thoughtful MCAT retake may also be worthwhile. But remember: admissions committees are looking for more than test scores. They want compassionate, resilient, and dedicated future doctors. With careful planning and determination, you can still get there.
FAQs: What’s the Lowest MCAT Score Accepted Into Med School?
1. What is the absolute lowest MCAT score someone has been accepted with?
In rare cases, applicants have been accepted with scores as low as 490–495, especially at DO programs and Caribbean medical schools. However, these are exceptions rather than the rule, and success often depends on having a strong GPA and outstanding extracurricular achievements.
2. Do any U.S. MD schools accept MCAT scores below 500?
Yes, though it is uncommon. Schools like Meharry Medical College, Howard University, and the University of Mississippi School of Medicine have accepted applicants with MCAT scores in the 494–499 range when other parts of their application were very strong.
3. Is it better to apply with a low MCAT or retake the test?
It depends on your situation. If your MCAT is below 500 and you’re aiming for MD schools, retaking may be necessary. However, if your score aligns with DO or international schools’ averages and the rest of your application is competitive, applying without a retake might still be a good option.
4. How many schools should I apply to if I have a low MCAT?
Experts recommend applying broadly—usually 15–20 schools or more—to maximize your chances. Include a mix of MD, DO, and, if necessary, Caribbean schools that historically accept lower MCAT scores.
5. Can a strong GPA compensate for a low MCAT?
Yes, to some extent. A high GPA (3.7+) demonstrates academic ability and can help balance a lower MCAT, especially if paired with clinical experience, research, and a compelling personal statement. However, highly competitive MD programs still expect both metrics to be strong.
