Updated: August 2025
Author: Dr. Alex Morgan, MD, MCAT Strategy Coach & Former AAMC Reviewer
What is the MCAT?
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, computer-based exam required for admission to most U.S. and Canadian medical schools. Developed by the AAMC, the MCAT tests your problem-solving, reasoning skills, and knowledge of natural, social, and behavioral sciences.
MCAT Format & Sections
The MCAT takes about 7.5 hours and includes four sections:
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys): Chemistry, physics, biochem.
- CARS (Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills): Reading complex passages, no prior knowledge needed.
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/Biochem): Biology, biochemistry, genetics.
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc): Psychology, sociology.
MCAT Scoring System
| Section | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Chem/Phys | 118–132 |
| CARS | 118–132 |
| Bio/Biochem | 118–132 |
| Psych/Soc | 118–132 |
| Total | 472–528 |
Average accepted score: 510–515
Best MCAT Study Resources
| Resource | Content ⭐️ | Practice ⭐️ | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaplan 7-Book Review | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Comprehensive prep |
| Princeton Review MCAT Elite | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Strategy-based prep |
| UWorld MCAT Qbank | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Practice-focused learners |
| AAMC Official Bundle | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Exam simulation |
| Anki (MilesDown Deck) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Spaced repetition |
| MCAT Self Prep | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Budget-friendly option |
🔗 Visit: AAMC, Kaplan, Princeton, UWorld
Recommended Study Plan
6-Month Plan
- Months 1–2: Kaplan or Princeton + Daily Anki
- Months 3–4: UWorld Qbank + AAMC practice
- Month 5: Weekly full-lengths + review
- Month 6: Final review & weak areas
3-Month Plan
- Month 1: Crash content review + Anki + Intro UWorld
- Month 2: UWorld + CARS daily + AAMC FLs
- Month 3: Review errors + timing drills
MCAT for International Students
- Available in select countries
- Check visa, ID, and AAMC policies
- MCAT + TOEFL/IELTS often needed
Top MCAT Tips
- Start early. Don’t cram.
- Practice CARS daily
- Review full-lengths carefully
- Use spaced repetition with Anki
- Simulate test day conditions
FAQs
- ❓ How many times can I take the MCAT?
- ✅ 3x per year, 4x in 2 years, 7x lifetime.
- ❓ What score is considered good?
- ✅ 510+ is competitive.
- ❓ Do all med schools require the MCAT?
- ✅ Nearly all U.S./Canadian schools do.
- ❓ Is there math on the MCAT?
- ✅ No calculator, basic math only.
- ❓ When should I take the MCAT?
- ✅ 6–12 months before applying to med school.
Conclusion
The MCAT is your entry to med school. Use the right resources, follow a clear plan, and practice consistently. A 515+ is achievable with smart strategy and commitment.
Author: Dr. Alex Morgan, MD
Reviewed by: Medicine.ac Editorial Team