Can Anyone Take the MCAT?

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is one of the most recognized and challenging standardized exams in the world. Designed and administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the MCAT is a critical requirement for admission to most medical schools in the United States, Canada, and select international programs.

But what about eligibility? Can anyone simply register and sit for the MCAT, or are there specific restrictions and requirements? This question often arises among students exploring careers in medicine or related health fields. While the AAMC encourages a wide pool of applicants, there are clearly defined rules about who can take the MCAT and under what circumstances.

This article provides a comprehensive step-by-step breakdown of MCAT eligibility, including key rules, exceptions, and considerations for international students. By the end, you will understand not only who can take the MCAT but also how to prepare for it and navigate the process efficiently.

To support your planning, we’ve also included links to official resources, expert insights, and detailed strategies to help you decide your next steps confidently.

Key Takeaways

The MCAT is primarily for students planning to apply to health professions programs, including MD and DO schools.
While there are no strict academic prerequisites for registration, success requires knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and critical reasoning.
International students and graduates can also take the MCAT under the same conditions, with additional logistical considerations for test locations and fees.
Applicants without immediate plans to apply to medical school must request special permission from the AAMC.
The MCAT has lifetime limits: you can take it a maximum of seven times, with yearly and bi-yearly restrictions.

Understand Basic Eligibility

The first and most important question for any prospective MCAT test-taker is whether they meet the basic eligibility requirements set by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). While it may seem like the MCAT is open to anyone curious about medical knowledge or testing their academic skills, the reality is more nuanced.

The AAMC specifically states that the MCAT is intended for individuals planning to apply to health professions programs. This means that unless you are actively considering a career in medicine or a related field, you may not qualify to sit for the exam. Let’s break down these requirements and understand what they mean for different types of applicants.

Who Can Register for the MCAT?

According to the official AAMC MCAT Eligibility Guidelines, you are eligible to take the MCAT if:

You are applying to a health professions program that accepts MCAT scores.
This includes but is not limited to:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) programs
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) programs
- Podiatric medicine (DPM) programs
- Veterinary medicine (DVM) programs
- Any other program that explicitly requires MCAT scores for admission

During registration, you must confirm that you are taking the exam with the intention of applying to one or more of these programs.

You have completed (or are close to completing) undergraduate coursework.
While there are no strict academic prerequisites to register, most test-takers are undergraduate juniors, seniors, or recent graduates who have finished the recommended pre-med coursework.

What About International Students?

International applicants are subject to the same eligibility rules as U.S. students. If you are pursuing or have completed an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) or an equivalent degree and plan to apply to medical school programs that accept MCAT scores, you may register.

Keep in mind:

The MCAT is offered at select international testing locations.
Registration fees may be higher for international sites due to regional testing costs.

For example, students from countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom commonly take the MCAT as part of their path to U.S. or Canadian medical schools.

Special Permission Cases

If you are not applying to a health professions program but still wish to take the MCAT (for example, as part of a research interest or to evaluate your own readiness for future studies), you must request special permission from the AAMC.

This involves:

Writing to the AAMC at mcat@aamc.org
Explaining your reason for wanting to take the exam
Awaiting approval before you can register

The AAMC evaluates these requests on a case-by-case basis. Approval is not guaranteed, and you may be asked for additional information to justify your request.

What if You’re Unsure About Your Plans?

For students who are still exploring whether medicine is the right career path, it’s best to wait until you are confident about applying to medical school before registering for the MCAT. The exam is rigorous, time-intensive, and costly, with fees starting at $330 for U.S. examinees and higher for international sites.

Additionally, because there are limits on how many times you can take the MCAT (more on this in Step 4), unnecessary attempts could negatively impact your testing record.

Key Considerations

Intent Matters: Simply being curious about the MCAT is not enough. You must declare an intent to apply to a qualifying program or seek special permission.
No Age Limits: There are no age restrictions; even nontraditional applicants in their 30s, 40s, or older can register if they meet the intent requirement.
No Citizenship Restriction: Eligibility is not tied to U.S. citizenship or residency status, though testing locations may limit access.

Eligibility to take the MCAT hinges on one primary factor: your intention to apply to a health professions program that accepts MCAT scores. If you meet this criterion, you are welcome to register. If not, you will need to request special permission from the AAMC.

Confirm Prerequisite Coursework

One of the most common misconceptions about the MCAT is that you need to complete specific courses before you’re allowed to register. In reality, the AAMC does not require any particular academic prerequisites for eligibility. However, most successful MCAT candidates have completed key undergraduate science and social science courses before sitting for the exam.

Why? Because the MCAT isn’t simply about memorizing facts. It’s a test of your ability to integrate and apply knowledge across multiple disciplines—a skill that is almost impossible to master without a strong academic foundation.

In this step, we’ll break down which courses are recommended, why they matter, and how to assess if you’re truly ready to take the MCAT.

Recommended Coursework for the MCAT

The AAMC provides a comprehensive list of topics covered on the MCAT. While not mandated, completing the following courses is highly recommended:

Course	Typical Duration	Why It’s Important
General Biology	2 semesters	Forms the backbone of the Biological Sciences section; key for genetics, cell biology, and physiology.
General Chemistry	2 semesters (with lab)	Essential for understanding chemical reactions, acids/bases, and lab skills tested indirectly.
Organic Chemistry	2 semesters (with lab)	Required for mastering biochemical pathways, molecular interactions, and reactions.
Physics	2 semesters	Crucial for interpreting data on mechanics, energy, and fluids in the Chemical & Physical Foundations section.
Biochemistry	1 semester	Directly tested in the Biological & Biochemical Foundations section.
Psychology	1 semester	Covers content for the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations section.
Sociology	1 semester	Adds context for sociocultural determinants of health, also tested in the Psych/Soc section.
English or Critical Writing	1–2 semesters	Improves performance on CARS (Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills).

Why Recommended Courses Matter

While technically optional, these courses are considered essential for three reasons:

1. The MCAT Tests Application, Not Memorization

Unlike many undergraduate exams, the MCAT requires you to apply scientific principles to novel scenarios. Without exposure to foundational sciences through coursework, you’re more likely to struggle with unfamiliar material.

2. Many Medical Schools Require These Courses Anyway

Even if you could ace the MCAT without them, most medical schools require applicants to have completed these classes. Skipping them may put you at a disadvantage later in the admissions process.

3. Strong Coursework Reduces Study Time

Students who have completed recommended courses typically need 300–400 hours of MCAT prep. Those without this background often require double that time because they must learn the material from scratch before beginning MCAT-focused practice.

What If You Haven’t Taken All the Recommended Courses?

It’s possible—but not advisable—to sit for the MCAT without this preparation. You should ask yourself:

Have I studied all the topics listed in the AAMC MCAT Guide?
Am I comfortable interpreting passages that blend physics, chemistry, and biology concepts?
Do I have time for intensive self-study to compensate for missing coursework?

If you answer “no” to any of these, consider delaying your test date until you’ve completed the necessary classes.

The Role of Self-Study and Prep Courses

For students who lack formal coursework but are determined to move forward, self-study using comprehensive MCAT prep materials can bridge the gap. Top resources include:

These resources provide structured content review and practice tests to simulate the MCAT experience.

Although there are no formal prerequisites for MCAT registration, completing the recommended pre-medical coursework gives you the strongest chance of success. It equips you with the scientific literacy needed to navigate the exam’s interdisciplinary approach and minimizes the risk of being overwhelmed during preparation.

If you’re missing key courses, weigh the pros and cons of proceeding now versus delaying your test date. Remember: a well-prepared candidate is far more likely to earn a competitive score on their first attempt.

Know the Exam Format & Content

Understanding the MCAT’s format and content is a critical part of deciding when—and even whether—you’re ready to take it. Unlike other standardized tests, the MCAT is a rigorous, multi-hour assessment designed to evaluate both your foundational knowledge and your ability to think critically in high-pressure situations.

Before you register, it’s essential to know what you’re signing up for. This step breaks down the structure of the MCAT, explains the purpose of each section, and highlights how these align with pre-medical coursework.

How Long Is the MCAT?

The MCAT is often described as a marathon, not a sprint. It is approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes long, including optional breaks. The actual testing time is about 6 hours and 15 minutes.

Here’s how the timing works:

Section	Number of Questions	Time Allotted
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems	59	95 minutes
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)	53	90 minutes
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems	59	95 minutes
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior	59	95 minutes
Total Testing Time	—	~6 hours, 15 minutes
Including Breaks	—	~7 hours, 30 minutes

The Four Sections Explained

1. Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems

This section tests your understanding of how physical and chemical principles apply to biological systems. Topics include:

General chemistry
Organic chemistry
Biochemistry
Physics
Basic biology

You’ll encounter passage-based questions requiring analysis of lab data and experimental setups.

Recommended Coursework: General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics

2. Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)

Unlike the science-heavy sections, CARS tests your ability to analyze and evaluate arguments in passages drawn from the humanities and social sciences.

Key skills assessed:

Comprehension of complex texts
Identifying assumptions and biases
Synthesizing information from multiple paragraphs

There is no specific coursework prerequisite for CARS, but strong reading and critical thinking skills are essential.

Tip: Regularly reading dense, analytical material like scientific journals or philosophy essays can help improve performance.

3. Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems

This section focuses on processes unique to living organisms and relies heavily on:

Biology
Biochemistry
Organic chemistry
General chemistry

It requires a deep understanding of cellular and molecular biology, along with an ability to apply this knowledge in a problem-solving context.

Recommended Coursework: Biology, Biochemistry

4. Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior

This section was added to the MCAT in 2015 to emphasize the importance of behavioral and socio-cultural factors in medicine. It tests concepts from:

Psychology
Sociology
Biology

Topics include behavior, social structures, mental health, and the cultural context of medicine.

Recommended Coursework: Psychology, Sociology

How Is the MCAT Scored?

Each of the four sections is scored from 118 to 132, with a median score of 125 per section. Combined, your total score ranges from 472 to 528.

The mean total score for all MCAT test-takers is approximately 501.5, while successful applicants to U.S. medical schools average closer to 511–512.

Why Knowing the Format Matters

1. Helps You Plan Study Time

Familiarity with the exam’s structure enables you to allocate study time effectively. For example, students with strong science backgrounds may need to focus more on CARS, while non-science majors may need intensive review for the science-heavy sections.

2. Reduces Test Day Anxiety

Knowing what to expect reduces the cognitive load on test day, allowing you to focus on performing rather than managing surprises.

3. Aligns Prep With Medical School Expectations

Since each section mirrors the interdisciplinary nature of medical practice, understanding the MCAT format also prepares you for the kind of thinking required in medical school.

The MCAT’s unique structure—with its blend of science content and reasoning skills—means that success depends on both academic knowledge and test-taking strategy. A deep understanding of the format will help you prepare more efficiently and approach test day with confidence.

Before moving forward, ask yourself:

Am I familiar with all four sections?
Do I understand how my pre-med coursework aligns with each part of the test?
Have I developed a timeline for studying based on this format?

If not, revisit the AAMC’s MCAT Guide to map out your preparation.

Learn the Registration Rules & Test Limits

Before you can sit for the MCAT, you need to understand the registration process and the rules that govern how often—and under what circumstances—you can take the test. This isn’t just a matter of logistics. Your registration strategy can directly impact your chances of admission to medical school.

In this step, we’ll break down the AAMC’s rules on registration, attempt limits, scheduling windows, fees, and accommodations so you can plan your testing timeline effectively.

How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT?

The AAMC imposes strict limits on how many times you can take the MCAT in your lifetime. These limits are designed to prevent over-testing and ensure that scores reflect a student’s true ability.

Here’s what you need to know:

Limit Type	Details
Single-Year Limit	You may take the MCAT up to 3 times in a single calendar year.
Two-Year Limit	You may take the MCAT up to 4 times in any two consecutive calendar years.
Lifetime Limit	You may take the MCAT a maximum of 7 times in your lifetime.

Source: AAMC Testing Limits

Important: Even if you void your score or do not show up on test day, it still counts toward these limits.

When Can You Register?

The MCAT is offered from January through September at designated testing centers worldwide. Registration typically opens in two phases:

Phase 1 (October): Registration opens for January–May test dates.
Phase 2 (February): Registration opens for June–September test dates.

To secure your preferred test date and location, it’s best to register as early as possible. Spots at popular locations fill up quickly, especially in urban centers and international sites.

View upcoming dates: AAMC MCAT Test Dates & Score Releases

What Are the Fees?

MCAT registration is not inexpensive, and costs vary depending on where you take the test.

Fee Type	U.S. & Territories	International Locations
Standard Registration	$330 USD	$445 USD
Late Registration	+$55 USD	+$55 USD (added to base fee)
Reschedule Fee (60–30 days out)	$55 USD	$55 USD
Reschedule Fee (<30 days out)	$110 USD	$110 USD
Cancellation Refund	Partial refund	Partial refund

Source: AAMC MCAT Fees

Financial Assistance

For U.S. residents facing financial hardship, the AAMC offers a Fee Assistance Program (FAP). Benefits include:

Reduced registration fee ($135 instead of $330)
Free MCAT Official Prep products
Waived medical school application fees for up to 20 schools via AMCAS

Unfortunately, FAP is not available for international students.

Special Considerations for International Applicants

If you’re testing outside the U.S., there are additional factors to keep in mind:

Fewer Testing Sites: The MCAT is only offered at select international locations. Check the current AAMC International Testing Locations.
Higher Fees: As shown above, registration costs more internationally.
Limited Dates: Fewer dates are available compared to U.S. test centers.

Plan ahead if you need to travel or secure a visa for your testing location.

What About Nontraditional Students?

For nontraditional applicants—such as career changers or those returning to school after years in the workforce—the same registration rules apply. However, it’s crucial to consider:

Timing: Allow extra time for prep if you’re balancing work and family obligations.
Attempt Limits: Since the MCAT limits are lifetime-based, plan carefully to avoid using up attempts prematurely.
Academic Readiness: If your undergraduate coursework is outdated, consider enrolling in a post-baccalaureate program or intensive self-study.

Accommodations for Disabilities

The AAMC provides testing accommodations for students with documented disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Possible accommodations include:

Extended time
Extra breaks
Reduced-distraction testing rooms
Assistive technology

To apply, submit a formal request with documentation well in advance of your desired test date. Processing can take several weeks or even months.

In Brief

You may take the MCAT up to 3 times per year, 4 times in two years, and 7 times total.
Register early to secure your preferred date and location.
Standard registration costs $330 in the U.S. and $445 internationally.
Financial aid is available for U.S. residents through the AAMC Fee Assistance Program.
Special planning is required for international students and those needing accommodations.

Mastering the registration process and understanding testing limits is just as important as academic preparation. Knowing when and how to register, budgeting for fees, and being aware of attempt limits can save you from costly mistakes and unnecessary stress down the line.

Before moving to the next step, make a timeline that includes:

Your planned test date
Registration opening dates
Application deadlines for your target medical schools

This will ensure your MCAT fits seamlessly into your broader medical school application strategy.

Navigating Special Circumstances

The MCAT is designed primarily for students actively planning to apply to health professions schools. But what if your situation isn’t typical? Many prospective test-takers fall into “special circumstances” where eligibility and timing may not be clear-cut.

This step explores these scenarios in detail and guides you on how to navigate them successfully, including how to seek special permission from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) if needed.

Taking the MCAT Without Immediate Plans to Apply

Can you register if you’re not yet sure about applying to medical school?

The AAMC’s eligibility policy states that you may register for the MCAT only if you are actively preparing to apply to a health professions program that accepts MCAT scores.

However, there are exceptions. If you’re not applying immediately but have a valid academic or professional reason for taking the exam, you may request special permission from the AAMC.

Common reasons for requesting permission:

You are considering a career in medicine but haven’t fully decided.
You need the MCAT for a non-medical graduate program (some interdisciplinary programs require it).
You’re a researcher or educator who wants to understand the MCAT for professional purposes.

To request permission:

Email mcat@aamc.org explaining your reason.
Provide supporting details (e.g., program requirements, professional context).
Wait for a response before attempting to register.

Approval is not guaranteed and is handled case by case.

Gap Year Applicants

Many students choose to take a gap year between college and medical school to gain experience, improve their application, or simply take a break.

Key considerations for gap year students:

You’re still fully eligible to take the MCAT as long as you’re planning to apply within a reasonable timeframe.
The optimal testing window is typically the spring or summer of your final undergraduate year, so your scores remain valid for the application cycle you’re targeting.
Remember: MCAT scores are valid for 2–3 years at most medical schools.

Career Changers and Nontraditional Students

If you’re entering medicine from a different career path, you may face unique challenges:

Eligibility

As long as you plan to apply to a health professions program, you are eligible to register.
You don’t need to be enrolled in a degree program at the time of registration.

Preparation

Career changers often lack some of the recommended coursework (see Step 2). Options include:

Completing a post-baccalaureate pre-med program
Intensive self-study using MCAT prep materials
Taking prerequisite courses at a local college

Scheduling

Consider your work and family commitments when selecting a test date. Many nontraditional students choose later testing windows (June–August) to allow more preparation time.

Learn more about MCAT prep for nontraditional applicants here: AAMC Nontraditional Pathways

International Applicants with Unique Situations

If you’re an international student, you may need to address:

Limited Testing Sites

The MCAT is only offered in select countries. If no site is available in your country, you may need to travel. Check the current AAMC International Testing Locations.

Visa Considerations

If testing abroad, ensure you have the necessary travel documents well in advance.

Validity of MCAT Scores Abroad

Before registering, confirm that the medical schools in your country of interest accept MCAT scores. For example:

Canadian medical schools almost universally require the MCAT.
UK and Australian schools may accept it for certain programs.
Many European and Asian programs do not.

Accommodations for Special Needs

Students with disabilities or health conditions that require testing accommodations should apply through the AAMC’s MCAT Accommodations Service.

Common accommodations include:

Extended testing time
Additional or longer breaks
Reduced-distraction environments
Assistive technology (screen readers, magnifiers)

Important: Submit accommodation requests at least 60 days before your desired test date. Processing can take time, and spots for accommodated testing may be limited.

While the MCAT’s eligibility rules may seem restrictive at first glance, the AAMC provides pathways for students in nontraditional situations. Whether you’re a gap year applicant, a career changer, or an international student, understanding these special circumstances helps you plan effectively.

If you don’t fit the “typical” pre-med profile but have a valid reason to take the MCAT, reach out to the AAMC early to avoid delays or registration issues.

Consider Timing & Prep Strategy

Choosing when to take the MCAT is one of the most strategic decisions you’ll make on your journey to medical school. Unlike a college midterm or final, the MCAT demands months of preparation, careful scheduling, and alignment with application timelines. Getting this wrong can delay your plans by an entire year.

In this step, we’ll break down how to pick the best test date for your situation, how much preparation time you’ll need, and how to tailor your study plan based on your academic background and commitments.

Why Timing Matters

The MCAT isn’t just another standardized test—it’s a gateway to medical school. Timing your exam correctly ensures:

Your scores are available when you apply.
You have enough time for thorough preparation.
You minimize the need for retakes due to rushed preparation.

MCAT scores are typically released 30–35 days after your test date. Medical school applications open in May–June each year, so testing early enough to have scores ready is critical.

Best Time to Take the MCAT

For Traditional Applicants (Undergraduate Students)

Most traditional applicants aiming to enter medical school immediately after college should take the MCAT:

Spring of Junior Year (March-May): This allows time for retakes if necessary and ensures scores are ready for the primary application cycle.
Summer of Junior Year (June–July): Ideal if you need extra preparation time, but later testing could delay your application submission.

For Gap Year Students

If you’re taking a gap year, you have more flexibility. Consider:

Late Spring or Summer of Senior Year (April–August): This schedule works well because you’re finished with most undergraduate coursework and can dedicate more time to preparation.
Ensure your score remains valid for your intended application cycle (many schools accept scores up to 2–3 years old).

For Nontraditional or Career Changer Applicants

If you’re balancing work, family, or returning to academics after a long break:

Allow 6–12 months of preparation depending on your background.
Choose a test date in June–August to align with medical school application timelines and avoid rushing.

How Much Time Do You Need to Prepare?

The AAMC recommends that most students spend 300–350 hours preparing for the MCAT. This equates to:

3–4 months of full-time study (25–30 hours/week)
5–6 months of part-time study (10–15 hours/week for those working or in school)

Assessing Your Academic Background

Academic Background	Recommended Prep Time	Notes
Strong pre-med coursework	3–4 months	Focus on test-taking strategy and content gaps.
Some pre-med coursework	4–6 months	May need more content review before practice.
Little to no pre-med coursework	6–12 months	Consider post-bacc programs or intensive self-study.

Building an MCAT Study Plan

Step 1: Content Review

Dedicate the first phase of your study plan to reviewing foundational science concepts across biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology. Use resources like:

AAMC Official Prep
Kaplan MCAT Complete 7-Book Subject Review
The Princeton Review MCAT Prep

Step 2: Practice Testing

Once you’ve reviewed content, shift focus to practice:

Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions.
Analyze results to identify weak areas.
Gradually build stamina for the 7.5-hour testing day.

Aim for at least 5–7 full-length practice exams before your official test date.

Step 3: Final Review and Strategy

In the last 4–6 weeks:

Focus on high-yield topics.
Refine test-taking strategies for each section.
Practice with AAMC Official Question Packs and sample questions.

Retaking the MCAT

While many students take the MCAT only once, about 23% of test-takers retake it to improve their scores. Plan your initial test date early enough to leave room for a retake if needed.

Key Tip: Avoid treating your first attempt as a “trial run.” Every attempt counts toward your lifetime limit (see Step 4).

Timing your MCAT and preparing thoroughly are as critical as the test itself. Start by identifying your ideal test window based on your academic progress and application timeline, then build a realistic study plan that fits your lifestyle.

By setting a clear schedule and sticking to it, you can approach test day confident and prepared.

Understand the Role of the MCAT in Admissions

The MCAT is more than just a test—it’s one of the most heavily weighted components in the medical school admissions process. But many students don’t fully understand how their score fits into the bigger picture.

Do schools use it as a cutoff? How does it compare to GPA? What happens if you take the test more than once?

This step breaks down how admissions committees evaluate MCAT scores, what scores are considered competitive, and how your MCAT performance interacts with other elements of your application.

What Is the MCAT? | What Is the Medical College Admission Test?

How Do Medical Schools Use MCAT Scores?

1. As a Screening Tool

Many medical schools use MCAT scores to screen applicants before they even review full applications. While not always published, most schools have internal score thresholds—minimum scores below which applications may not be considered, regardless of GPA or extracurriculars.

For example:

A school may have an MCAT floor of 500–505.
More competitive schools may not consider applicants with scores under 510–512.

This doesn’t mean automatic rejection, but it does mean that MCAT scores help determine whether your application makes it to the next round.

2. As a Predictor of Academic Success

The MCAT is designed to predict performance in the first year of medical school (AAMC Validity Data). Schools rely on it to gauge whether students can handle the academic rigor of their programs, especially in the basic sciences.

It’s particularly important for:

Applicants from smaller or lesser-known colleges
Students with a low or inconsistent GPA
Career changers who lack traditional science coursework

In these cases, a strong MCAT score helps “validate” your readiness.

What Is a Competitive MCAT Score?

There is no universal answer, but here’s a breakdown based on national data from the AAMC:

Total Score	Percentile (Approx.)	Competitiveness
528	100th percentile	Perfect score
515–528	94th–100th	Top-tier schools
510–514	81st–93rd	Strong range
505–509	64th–80th	Average range
500–504	45th–63rd	Below average
<500	Below 45th	Risky

Source: AAMC Percentile Ranks for the MCAT

A score of 511+ is considered competitive for most U.S. MD programs. DO programs typically accept slightly lower scores, but the overall trend is that higher MCAT scores increase your odds, especially when paired with a solid GPA and experience.

How Does the MCAT Compare to GPA?

Admissions committees typically look at:

Cumulative GPA
Science GPA (BCPM): Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Math
MCAT Score

These three components form the academic core of your application. While GPA shows long-term performance, the MCAT reflects your ability to master and apply science under pressure.

Here’s how they interact:

High GPA + High MCAT: Ideal
High GPA + Low MCAT: May raise concerns about standardized testing or academic rigor
Low GPA + High MCAT: Can sometimes offset concerns, especially with strong upward grade trends

This is why students with weaker academic records often use the MCAT to demonstrate academic readiness.

Do Medical Schools Average Multiple Scores?

Most schools do not average your scores. Instead, they consider:

Your highest total score
Score trends (e.g., improvement vs. decline)
Section scores (e.g., if you struggle consistently in CARS)

That said, all scores remain visible on your AMCAS or AACOMAS application. So, avoid treating your first MCAT as a practice run—it stays on your record.

Pro tip: If your scores improve significantly between attempts, it shows growth and resilience, which can impress admissions committees.

MCAT and Holistic Review

The MCAT is critical, but it’s not the only factor. Most medical schools use a holistic review process that includes:

GPA and transcript quality
Clinical and volunteer experience
Research and leadership roles
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement and secondary essays
Interview performance

A strong MCAT score won’t compensate for poor extracurriculars, and an average MCAT score won’t ruin a well-rounded application.

The best strategy is to view the MCAT as one major piece of the admissions puzzle, not the entire picture.

How Long Are MCAT Scores Valid?

Most U.S. medical schools accept MCAT scores that are no older than 2 or 3 years at the time of application. If your score is too old, you’ll be required to retake the exam, even if you did well previously.

Confirm each school’s policy using the Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) database, which includes score validity windows and historical score ranges for admitted students.

The MCAT plays a powerful role in medical school admissions. It acts as both a screening tool and a predictor of academic readiness, and it can either boost your application or hold it back.

A score of 511 or higher is competitive for most MD programs.
Medical schools rarely average scores, but do view your full MCAT history.
Your MCAT should complement your GPA, not compensate for it alone.
Success depends on strong academics and compelling experiences.

By understanding how admissions committees interpret the MCAT, you can develop a smarter testing and preparation strategy—and avoid costly missteps.

Conclusion: Can Anyone Take the MCAT?

The question “Can anyone take the MCAT?” is straightforward in theory but complex in practice. Technically, the MCAT is open to nearly all prospective medical school applicants, with no rigid prerequisite or enrollment requirements set by the AAMC. However, the exam’s rigor and content demand careful preparation, strategic timing, and a solid academic foundation.

Throughout this article, we’ve explored every essential aspect of MCAT eligibility and readiness:

Prerequisite Coursework: While there are no formal course requirements to register, completing key classes in biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology is critical for understanding and excelling on the test.
Exam Format and Content: The MCAT is a multi-section exam testing scientific knowledge and critical reasoning skills over a grueling 7.5-hour session. Understanding its structure is fundamental to preparing effectively.
Registration Rules and Attempt Limits: You can take the MCAT up to seven times in your lifetime, with restrictions on yearly attempts. Early registration and awareness of fees are crucial for smooth planning.
Special Circumstances: Whether you’re a gap year student, career changer, international applicant, or seeking accommodations, the AAMC provides guidance and pathways to ensure fair access to the exam.
Timing and Preparation Strategy: Selecting the right test date, allocating enough study time, and building a tailored prep plan based on your background can maximize your score potential.
Role in Admissions: The MCAT score is a key factor in medical school applications, but is most powerful when combined with strong academics, meaningful experiences, and a compelling personal narrative.

If you’re considering taking the MCAT, ask yourself:

Do I have the academic background, or am I willing to invest in preparation to build it?
Have I planned a realistic timeline for study and registration?
Am I aware of how my MCAT fits into the larger admissions process?

Taking the MCAT is a significant step, but with the right approach, it is achievable for many aspiring medical professionals. Thorough preparation not only boosts your score but also builds the confidence and critical thinking skills essential for success in medical school and beyond.

FAQs: Common Questions About Taking the MCAT

1. Do I need to have a science degree to take the MCAT?

No, you do not need a science degree to register for the MCAT. The AAMC does not require any specific major or degree for eligibility. However, you will need a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, psychology, and sociology to perform well on the exam.

Students from non-science backgrounds often take additional coursework or complete a post-baccalaureate pre-medical program to build the necessary foundation before attempting the test.

2. Can high school students or undergraduates take the MCAT just to “try it out”?

No. The MCAT is intended for students who are actively preparing to apply to a health professions school. High school students are not eligible, and undergraduates cannot take the test unless they are close to applying (typically juniors or seniors in college).

If you’re curious about the exam, consider reviewing the AAMC MCAT Sample Questions instead of registering for the actual test.

3. How many times should I take the MCAT if I don’t get my target score the first time?

While you’re allowed up to three attempts per year and seven total in a lifetime, most successful applicants take the MCAT once or twice. Medical schools will see your full testing history, and frequent retakes may raise concerns unless there is a clear improvement.

Before deciding to retake, reflect on what limited your performance and whether you can realistically improve with more preparation. Resources like AAMC’s Retaking the MCAT Guide can help you make an informed decision.

4. Are there any medical schools that don’t require the MCAT?

Yes, but they are rare. Some medical schools in the U.S. and abroad have MCAT-optional pathways or accept alternative tests. For example:

University of Florida College of Medicine (certain combined degree programs)
Some international schools in Europe or the Caribbean may not require the MCAT.

However, most U.S. and Canadian MD and DO programs require MCAT scores for admission. Always verify requirements through the Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) database.

5. How early should I start studying for the MCAT?

Most students begin preparing 4–6 months before their test date, dedicating 10–30 hours per week, depending on their schedule and familiarity with the material.

If you’re working full-time or returning to academics after a long break, you may need 6–12 months of preparation. A well-structured study plan, combined with practice exams from AAM C Official Prep, is key to success.