If you’re preparing for medical school admissions, understanding the MCAT retake limits in 2025 is critical. The MCAT isn’t just another test — it’s a high-stakes exam that can make or break your path to becoming a doctor. With over 90,000 MCAT test administrations reported in 2023 alone, thousands of students are retaking the exam each year to boost their scores and stay competitive.

But how many chances do you actually get? And how do medical schools view multiple attempts?

This article breaks down the official retake policy from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), how each attempt affects your application, and how to retake the MCAT strategically without damaging your prospects — or your wallet.

Key Takeaways:

• You’re allowed up to 3 MCAT attempts per calendar year, 4 in any two consecutive years, and 7 total lifetime attempts.
• Void scores and no-shows still count toward your retake limit.
• Some schools focus on your highest MCAT score, while others review all scores or score trends.
• Each attempt costs $325, and retaking without improving can raise red flags.
• A smart retake strategy can maximize your score while keeping your medical school profile strong.

Let’s explore these limits in detail, understand why they exist, and learn how to turn each retake into a step closer to your dream of becoming a physician.

What Are the MCAT Retake Limits in 2025?

If you’re planning to take the MCAT in 2025, it’s crucial to understand the official rules about how many times you can sit for the exam. The MCAT retake limits in 2025, as set by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), are designed to promote fairness and ensure that candidates prepare thoroughly before attempting the test.

Official MCAT Retake Policy

As of 2025, the AAMC allows candidates to take the MCAT according to the following guidelines:

• Up to 3 times in a single calendar year
• Up to 4 times over two consecutive years
• No more than 7 total attempts in your lifetime

These limits apply to all MCAT exams taken since April 2015, when the current version of the MCAT was introduced. You can view the AAMC’s official retake policy here.

What Counts as an Attempt?

Importantly, any of the following situations will count toward your total number of attempts:

• Completed exams (regardless of score)
• Voided exams (when you choose not to have your test scored after completion)
• No-shows (if you register but do not appear on test day without cancellation)

This means that even if you don’t receive a score, whether due to personal decision, illness, or unforeseen issues, it will still count as one of your limited opportunities. According to the AAMC’s Testing Frequently Asked Questions, voids and no-shows are included to maintain fairness and protect the integrity of the testing process.

Why These Limits Exist

The purpose behind setting MCAT retake limits in 2025 (and in previous years) is multi-fold:

• Encouraging adequate preparation: With the limited number of retakes, test-takers are encouraged to study thoroughly and avoid taking the exam “just to see what it’s like.”
• Maintaining test fairness: Multiple attempts could give some students undue familiarity with test content. Limits reduce this advantage.
• Protecting admissions processes: Medical schools rely on the MCAT as a key metric. Excessive attempts could make it harder to interpret results consistently across applicants.

According to the AAMC’s 2023 annual data, more than 90,000 MCAT administrations were recorded in a single year, and thousands of students took the exam more than once. With the stakes so high, understanding how these attempts are tracked is essential for a long-term testing strategy.

What This Means for You

If you’re a 2025 applicant or a student planning to apply later, these numbers directly impact your planning:

• A student who first attempts the MCAT in January 2025 could, in theory, take the exam again in May and August, reaching the 3-attempt annual limit.
• That same student could take the exam once more in 2026 but would not be able to take it again until 2027 if they wanted to avoid breaching the 4-attempt/2-year limit.
• Once you reach your seventh total attempt, you are permanently ineligible to take the MCAT again, regardless of score history or reason.

It’s worth noting that while most students only take the exam once or twice, a significant number take it more. According to AAMC data from 2022, roughly 25% of test-takers were on their second or third attempt, emphasizing the need to get it right early.

What Happens If You Exceed the MCAT Retake Limits in 2025?

The MCAT retake limits in 2025 are strict and non-negotiable. Once you hit any of the AAMC’s attempt caps—whether in a calendar year, over two years, or over your lifetime—you lose eligibility to register for the exam again.

This means that if you have:

• Taken the test 3 times in one calendar year, you must wait until the next year to retake it.
• Taken the test 4 times across two consecutive years, you must wait until a third year to resume testing.
• Taken the test 7 times total, you are permanently barred from taking the MCAT again, even if you voided or missed some of those exams.

There are no appeal processes or exceptions to these limits.

No Exceptions or Appeals Allowed

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) does not grant waivers for exceeding the limits under any circumstances. That includes:

• Medical or personal emergencies
• Mental health-related withdrawals
• Voided exams or test-day absences
• Changes in application plans or timing

The only circumstance under which you might still qualify to test again after a technical error is if the AAMC cancels your exam due to administrative issues (e.g., site closures or equipment failure). In that case, your attempt may not count against the limit. Details about cancellations can be found in the AAMC MCAT Essentials guide.

What Happens to Your Medical School Plans?

Reaching the MCAT attempt limit can be a serious obstacle in your path to medical school:

• You won’t be allowed to retake the test, even if your current score is below a school’s cutoff.
• If your scores are not competitive and you’re out of attempts, you’ll need to re-evaluate your medical school goals, consider post-baccalaureate programs, or explore other healthcare careers.
• Medical schools will still see your full MCAT testing history, which may include all 7 attempts if you max out.

This is why it’s important to treat each attempt as if it might be your last, and why careful preparation is key. While most students don’t come close to the seven-attempt limit, poor planning or repeated testing “just to try it” can lead to exhausting your eligibility too early.

Common Pitfall: Misunderstanding Attempt Count

A frequent misunderstanding is believing that only completed, scored exams count toward the limit. In fact, the AAMC makes it clear that even voided scores and no-shows count as full attempts. So even if you decide halfway through the test to cancel your score, or miss your test entirely without canceling in advance, you’ve still used one of your limited slots.

As stated in the MCAT registration policies, these rules help preserve the exam’s integrity and standardize the testing experience across all applicants.

How Do Medical Schools View Multiple MCAT Attempts?

Understanding the MCAT retake limits in 2025 is only part of the equation. How admissions committees interpret multiple scores plays a major role in whether retaking the test improves your chances of admission.

While retaking the MCAT is common, the way medical schools evaluate multiple attempts varies widely. Some institutions focus on your highest score, others assess your score trends, and a few consider every attempt equally. Knowing how your target schools approach this can help you decide when and whether to retake the test.

1. Schools That Consider Only the Highest Score

Many medical schools look only at your best overall score, regardless of how many times you’ve taken the test. This approach benefits students who make a significant improvement after a low first attempt.

According to data from the Association of American Medical Colleges, a number of schools, including top-tier programs like NYU Grossman School of Medicine and the University of Chicago Pritzker, explicitly state that they consider only the highest MCAT score during the admissions process.

This policy gives students the flexibility to improve without being penalized for previous low scores, provided that their overall application remains strong.

You can check individual school policies through the official Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) database (subscription required).

2. Schools That Review Score Trends

Some schools go beyond just the highest score and examine trends across multiple tests. For example, they may look for consistent improvement between attempts or penalize erratic performance.

A noticeable upward trend may be viewed positively, as it reflects persistence and academic growth. However, inconsistent results or declining scores can raise concerns about your preparation or testing stamina.

In its official guidance, the AAMC advises that medical schools may “look at more than one MCAT score” and consider patterns of performance over time rather than a single result.

3. Schools That Consider All Scores Equally

Some institutions require applicants to submit all MCAT scores taken, and they evaluate each one as part of the overall academic record. In these cases, a low score—even if followed by a better one—might still impact your application.

While this policy is less common, applicants with multiple scores need to demonstrate why earlier scores don’t reflect their current academic ability. This can be addressed in secondary applications or during interviews, depending on the school.

4. Do Any Schools Superscore?

In contrast to some undergraduate programs that “superscore” standardized tests (i.e., combine the best section scores from multiple sittings), medical schools generally do not superscore the MCAT. The AAMC provides only composite scores for each attempt, and most schools base decisions on these full exam results.

How Many MCAT Attempts Is Too Many?

There’s no universal rule for how many MCAT attempts are considered “too many,” but here are some widely accepted insights:

• 1–2 attempts: Considered normal and acceptable
• 3 attempts: Still reasonable, especially with improvement
• 4+ attempts: May raise concerns unless a clear upward trend is evident

A 2023 AAMC report found that applicants who scored between 510–514 had a 78.6% chance of acceptance, compared to just 20.1% for scores between 500–504. These stats highlight how impactful even a single improved score can be, particularly when retake planning is strategic.

When Should You Retake the MCAT?

Knowing that the MCAT retake limits in 2025 allow multiple attempts is one thing, but deciding whether and when to retake the exam is a more nuanced decision. A retake isn’t always necessary, and in some cases, it could actually harm your application if done without proper planning.

Here’s how to assess whether a retake is the right move for you and how to time it effectively.

Key Considerations Before Retaking the MCAT

Before registering for another exam, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Was your score below medical school averages?

Start by comparing your score to the average MCAT scores of accepted applicants at your target schools. According to AAMC data, the average MCAT score for matriculants in 2023–2024 was:

• 511.7 overall
• 125.9–128.2 per section

If your score falls well below the average for your selected schools, especially if you’re targeting more competitive programs, a retake may be justified.

2. Did you prepare thoroughly for your first attempt?

Some students take the MCAT before they’re truly ready, often under pressure from peers, timelines, or school advisors. If you underperformed because of rushed or inadequate preparation, a retake with a revised study strategy can make a measurable difference.

3. Were external factors affecting your performance?

If your test day was compromised by illness, anxiety, or personal stress, your score might not reflect your true potential. In such cases, a well-prepared retake can offer redemption.

4. Is your GPA strong enough to carry a lower score?

Students with high GPAs from rigorous science coursework may be able to offset a slightly below-average MCAT score. However, for students with a lower GPA, improving the MCAT score becomes a key opportunity to demonstrate academic readiness.

5. How many times have you already taken the exam?

If you’ve already taken the MCAT two or more times, a third or fourth attempt should be weighed carefully. Admissions committees may start to scrutinize repeated attempts, especially without improvement.

As mentioned earlier, you’re allowed up to 3 attempts per calendar year, 4 across two years, and 7 total.

Ideal Timing for an MCAT Retake

Once you’ve decided to retake the MCAT, timing becomes critical—both for maximizing your performance and aligning with the medical school application cycle.

Application Deadlines Matter

To stay competitive, you should aim to retake the MCAT no later than June of your application year. Most schools operate on a rolling admissions basis, meaning earlier applicants often have a better chance of acceptance.

If your score isn’t ready by June or early July, waiting another year to apply may be the better long-term strategy.

Consider Your Study Timeline

A successful MCAT retake typically requires at least 300–400 hours of preparation, depending on your foundation and section-specific weaknesses. That can translate to:

• 3–4 months of part-time study (20–25 hours per week), or
• 8–10 weeks of full-time study (35+ hours per week)

Building a structured, data-driven prep schedule—focused on areas where you underperformed—will dramatically increase your chances of improving.

Leave Time for Score Release

MCAT scores take 30–35 days to be released. That means if you take the test in mid-May, your results will arrive in mid-June, just in time for early application submission.

You can view the exact dates for the 2025 cycle on the official AAMC MCAT Calendar.

Don’t Retake Just to “Try Again”

One of the most common mistakes students make is retaking the MCAT without a clear plan or measurable improvement strategy. Retaking without doing things differently—new study methods, formal prep courses, tutoring, or diagnostic testing—often leads to similar or worse scores.

With each retake using up one of your limited opportunities, every attempt should be strategic.

How to Prepare Effectively for an MCAT Retake

Once you’ve decided to use one of your MCAT retake limits in 2025, your success will depend largely on how you prepare. Simply reviewing old notes or repeating the same strategies from your first attempt isn’t enough. A strategic, tailored approach—based on your past performance and the latest prep tools—is essential for real improvement.

My 5 MCAT Retake Tips for a 10 Point Score Increase!

Below is a comprehensive guide to building a retake plan that increases your odds of a higher score.

1. Analyze Your Score Report and Section Performance

Start by thoroughly reviewing your AAMC Score Report, which breaks down your scaled score and percentile for each of the four sections:

• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/Biochem)
• Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys)
• Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc)
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)

This helps you identify specific weak areas. For instance, if you scored below 125 in CARS but above 128 in other sections, your retake prep should focus more on reading strategies and logic-based comprehension.

According to the AAMC MCAT Percentile Ranks, each section’s average score hovers between 125–127, meaning that even a 2–3 point increase in one section could move you several percentile points higher.

2. Create a Customized Study Plan

Build a study calendar based on your available time, target test date, and weak areas. Key elements of a strong study plan include:

• Dedicated study blocks (2–4 hours per session)
• Balanced content review (biology, physics, psych, etc.)
• Daily CARS practice
• Weekly full-length practice tests

Your plan should span at least 8–12 weeks, depending on how much time you can commit each week.

Use the AAMC’s official MCAT Study Plan Tool to create a structured, tailored calendar.

3. Use High-Quality Resources (Not Just Free Material)

While free videos and forums can supplement your prep, high-yield tools are necessary for MCAT success. For your retake, invest in resources that focus on strategy and full-length testing. Highly recommended:

• AAMC Official Practice Exams and Question Packs
  These are written by the test-makers and best simulate the real exam.
• UWorld for MCAT
  Known for in-depth explanations and strong content alignment, especially for CARS and science reasoning.
• Blueprint MCAT
  Offers adaptive learning, analytics, and customizable study plans.
• Khan Academy MCAT Course (now archived)
  Still accessible via Khan Academy MCAT Collection, covering foundational content.

Investing in at least 3–5 full-length practice exams is critical for retake success, as they condition your stamina and simulate real testing conditions.

4. Identify and Correct Prep Mistakes from Your First Attempt

Common MCAT prep mistakes include:

• Passive studying (re-reading notes without testing yourself)
• Ignoring the CARS practice
• Not timing practice sessions
• Lack of review and reflection after practice exams

To improve, you need active recall, spaced repetition, and frequent practice under timed conditions. Use error logs to track mistakes and analyze patterns in incorrect responses.

5. Build Exam Stamina with Full-Length Practice Tests

Taking the MCAT is a 7.5-hour endurance test. Many students underperform simply because they aren’t used to maintaining focus for that long.

Start by:

• Taking one full-length exam every 1–2 weeks
• Simulating actual test-day conditions (quiet room, time blocks, breaks)
• Reviewing every practice test in detail—why you got it wrong, and why other options were incorrect

This will help build both content mastery and mental stamina—two keys to scoring higher on a retake.

6. Consider a Formal Course or MCAT Tutor

If your self-study approach didn’t deliver results last time, it might be time to consider professional help:

• Prep courses from companies like Kaplan, Princeton Review, and Blueprint offer structure, strategy, and expert-led instruction.
• Private MCAT tutors are ideal if you need accountability, customized instruction, or a short-term improvement strategy.

The AAMC’s Fee Assistance Program (FAP) can reduce the cost of MCAT registration and prep materials by up to 50–100%, making these tools more accessible.

7. Focus on Mental Health and Test Anxiety

Finally, don’t overlook the psychological side of retaking the MCAT. Anxiety, burnout, and impostor syndrome are common, especially if you’ve already taken the test multiple times.

Resources that can help:

• Mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm for stress regulation
• Guided meditation and breathing exercises
• Pomodoro techniques for improving focus during long study sessions
• Counseling services (especially if you’re a student at a university)

Improving your mindset can directly impact your performance, especially in time-sensitive sections like CARS.

How Many Times Do Students Usually Retake the MCAT?

While the MCAT retake limits in 2025 permit up to 7 lifetime attempts, most students don’t come close to hitting that cap. Understanding how often test-takers retake the MCAT—and how that affects their admission odds—can help you calibrate your expectations and plan smarter.

Let’s break it down with real data and insights from the AAMC.

Most Students Take the MCAT Only Once or Twice

According to the AAMC’s 2023 data on MCAT testing trends, the vast majority of applicants fall into the following categories:

• 60–65% take the MCAT only once
• 25–30% take it twice
• Fewer than 10% take it three or more times

This shows that while retaking the exam is relatively common, most successful applicants score competitively in their first or second attempt. Only a small fraction of students need more than two tries, and multiple attempts don’t necessarily improve outcomes without a clear strategy.

Does Retaking Help You Score Higher?

It depends.

The AAMC’s own MCAT Score Gains Report reveals that:

• On average, students who retake the exam improve their scores by 2–3 points
• Score increases are most significant between the first and second attempts
• Improvement tends to plateau—or even decline—after the third or fourth attempt

This means retaking the MCAT can be effective, but only when supported by proper preparation. Repeated attempts without a new approach often yield diminishing returns.

Do Multiple Attempts Hurt Your Application?

Admissions committees differ in how they interpret repeated attempts. However, some general observations apply:

• 1–2 attempts are seen as normal
• 3 attempts may raise minor concerns, but improvement can offset them
• 4 or more attempts often trigger closer scrutiny, especially if scores remain stagnant or decline

Some schools expect a clear justification for multiple MCAT scores. If your test history shows steady growth, that can work in your favor. But if your performance fluctuates or fails to improve, it may suggest a lack of readiness or poor study habits.

High-Scoring Applicants Usually Don’t Retake

According to AAMC admissions data, acceptance rates increase sharply with higher scores:

MCAT Score Range	Acceptance Rate
517–528	85.8%
511–516	78.6%
505–510	47.4%
500–504	20.1%
494–499	9.6%

Students in the 511+ range usually don’t need to retake unless they’re applying to top 10 programs. Those scoring below 505, however, are more likely to face rejection, making a well-timed retake worth considering

To Sum It Up

• Most applicants take the MCAT only once or twice
• A second attempt is the most likely to lead to a meaningful score increase
• After the third attempt, the benefits often diminish unless the strategy changes
• Applicants with four or more attempts must explain their testing history and show a pattern of growth
• Scoring above 511 significantly boosts your odds, making retakes less necessary

Strategies to Avoid Hitting MCAT Retake Limits and Make Each Attempt Count

While the MCAT retake limits in 2025 provide some flexibility, it’s important to approach your test journey with a clear strategy to avoid unnecessary retakes and maximize your score on each attempt. This section offers actionable tips to ensure your MCAT path is efficient and effective.

How To PREVENT An MCAT Retake! [513 Scorer Tips]

1. Start Preparation Early and Plan Realistically

One of the biggest reasons students need multiple retakes is starting their MCAT prep too late or underestimating the effort required. According to surveys by Kaplan Test Prep, the average successful MCAT study time is 300–350 hours over 3–6 months.

Actionable tip:
Create a study calendar that accounts for your coursework, extracurriculars, and personal commitments. Build in buffer time for full-length practice exams and review.

2. Take a Diagnostic Test Before You Start

Identify your baseline early with a full-length diagnostic exam. This will highlight your strengths and weaknesses so you can tailor your study plan rather than guessing.

Official AAMC practice exams are highly recommended for this. Knowing your starting point helps set realistic goals and prevents surprises on test day.

3. Focus on Quality Over Quantity in Study

Intense, focused study sessions that include active recall, spaced repetition, and practice questions yield better results than passive reading or cramming.

Use evidence-backed study methods such as:

• Active recall (testing yourself regularly)
• Spaced repetition (reviewing material over increasing intervals)
• Practice under timed conditions

4. Use Official AAMC Materials Regularly

Official materials reflect the exam’s current format and question style best. Regularly incorporate the:

• AAMC Question Packs
• Section Banks
• Full-Length Practice Exams

This ensures you’re not only learning content but also adapting to the MCAT’s unique reasoning and question style.

5. Build Test Day Skills and Stamina

The MCAT is as much a mental endurance challenge as a knowledge test. Incorporate:

• Full-length timed practice tests
• Test-day simulation (including breaks and nutrition)
• Stress management techniques

Developing these skills early reduces the risk of burnout or anxiety on the actual exam.

6. Avoid Rushing to Retake

Only register for a retake when you are confident of a score improvement. Rushing to retake without addressing your weaknesses can waste your limited attempts.

7. Monitor and Manage Your Stress

Test anxiety affects many candidates. Incorporate mindfulness, regular exercise, and breaks into your prep. The AAMC also offers resources to help manage test stress.

8. Have a Backup Plan

Understand application timelines and consider alternative pathways:

• Applying to less competitive schools
• Pursuing a post-baccalaureate or master’s program to strengthen your academic record
• Taking a gap year to improve readiness

Navigating the MCAT retake limits in 2025 wisely involves thoughtful planning, strategic preparation, and realistic expectations. By starting early, using official resources, and focusing on quality study and test-day readiness, you can minimize retakes and put your best foot forward.

Conclusion: Make Every MCAT Attempt Count

Understanding the MCAT retake limits in 2025 is crucial for planning your path to medical school success. While you have up to seven attempts allowed over your lifetime, making every attempt count is vital. Careful preparation, strategic timing, and using the right resources can help you achieve your target score without unnecessary retakes.

Remember, most students only need one or two attempts to reach their goals. By analyzing your first score, building a focused study plan, and prioritizing mental stamina, you can improve your chances of success on the retake, if you decide to take it. Avoid rushing into multiple attempts without a clear plan, as this can negatively affect your application.

Ultimately, your MCAT journey is about quality over quantity. Invest in solid preparation, stay consistent, and approach the exam with confidence. With the right strategy, you can navigate the MCAT retake limits in 2025 and maximize your potential to get accepted into the medical school of your choice.

FAQs: MCAT Retakes and Limits in 2025

1. How many times can I take the MCAT in 2025?
You can take the MCAT up to 3 times in a single calendar year, 4 times over two consecutive years, and 7 times in your lifetime, according to AAMC’s official retake policy. Even if you void or no-show, it still counts toward your limit.

2. Does retaking the MCAT hurt my chances of getting into medical school?
Not necessarily. Many admissions committees accept retakes, especially if you show a clear improvement. However, taking the test 3 or more times may raise questions unless there’s consistent upward progress in your scores.

3. How long should I wait before retaking the MCAT?
It’s recommended to wait until you’ve fully addressed your weaknesses, typically 8–12 weeks of focused study. Avoid rushing into a retake—register only when you are confident of a meaningful improvement.

4. Do medical schools see all my MCAT scores?
Yes. Medical schools receive your full MCAT score history, including any voided exams and no-shows. While some schools consider only the highest score, many review score trends and overall progress.

5. Can I cancel or void my MCAT score if I’m not confident?
Yes, you can void your MCAT score at the end of the test session before viewing your score. However, a voided attempt still counts toward your retake limits, so use this option cautiously.