The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a computer-based standardized examination for prospective medical students in the United States, Australia, Canada, and Caribbean Islands.

It is designed to assess problem solving, critical thinking, written analysis and knowledge of scientific concepts and principles.

The MCAT exam is administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and is required of applicants to virtually all U.S. medical schools.

MCAT Test content

Section Questions Minutes
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems 59 95
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems 59 95
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills 53 90
Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behavior 59 95

The test consists of four sections, each with a maximum score of 132 points (and a minimum score of 118 points).

The total MCAT score is the sum of the four section scores, and ranges from 472 to 528, with 500 being the median score.

MCAT Cost-

The cost to take the MCAT is $310 during AAMC’s regular registration window, but increases if you register late or if you reschedule.

There are also cancellation and international fees that may pertain to some test takers. It’s important that you choose the right MCAT test date—and test prep—for you, so you don’t have to pay the fee a second time.