MCAT Guide

MCAT Quick Facts
Duration 6 hours 15 minutes (7½ hours including optional breaks)
Cost $335
Test dates for 2024 January 12 – September 14
Registration opens October 24 / 25, 2023
Sections Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior

What is the MCAT?

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice admissions exam used by the majority of U.S. medical schools, as well as many Canadian schools. It is a notoriously hard exam, lasting approximately 7½ hours!

See more information about the MCAT and the Difference Between the MCAT and UCAT.

What is tested on the MCAT?

The MCAT assesses your knowledge of natural, behavioral and social science concepts and principles, and your problem solving and critical thinking skills. 

The exam is formatted into the following four sections:

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

Learn more about the MCAT format and sections

How is the MCAT scored?

You’ll receive an individual score for each of the MCAT sections. These are given as a scaled score, ranging from 118 (lowest) to 132 (highest), with a midway point of 125. These are also combined to give you a total scaled score, ranging from 472 (lowest) to 528 (highest), with a midway point of 500. 

Find out more about MCAT scoring and what’s a good MCAT score

When can I register for the MCAT?

For 2024, MCAT test dates are available between January and September. Registration will open on October 24 / 25, 2023. You can also pre-register prior to this.

How much does the MCAT cost?

The standard registration fee for all 2024 testing dates is $335. 

Learn more about fees associated with testing outside of the US, Canada or US Territories, rescheduling or canceling your exam.

How can I prepare for the MCAT? 

By focusing on revising the key topics included in the MCAT (listed below) and completing practice questions and mock exams. 

Find out more about preparing effectively for the MCAT.

Free MCAT resources

The volume of topics covered in the MCAT is one reason why candidates often find it so challenging. That’s why we’ve created free study materials for a range of MCAT topics.