MCAT FAQ
See FAQ about our MCAT Program
What is the MCAT?
The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a computer-based standardized exam for applicants to medical schools in the United States and Canada. The MCAT assesses problem solving, critical thinking, written analysis, and writing skills in addition to knowledge of scientifc concepts and principles. It is scored out of 45 and also includes a written section.
Where can I register for the MCAT?
You can register for the MCAT at the website of the Association of American Medical Colleges, the organization that administers the test (www.aamc.org).
When can I write the MCAT test?
The test is administered 25 or more times per year at Prometric centers. The exam's duration is 4.5 to 5 hours, and is offered either in the morning or afternoon.
How many times should I take the MCAT? Can I just send medical schools only my highest MCAT scores?
AAMC limits applicants to taking the MCAT a maximum of three times per year, and maximum one registration per session. Although some medical schools consider the highest of the applicant’s scores, others consider all of the scores; therefore, if an applicant feels that he has performed poorly on the MCAT, he might choose to cancel the score and try the test again the next time it is offered. However, an applicant may only void a score at the end of the examination, (long before his score becomes available); therefore, he must decide whether or not to cancel his score without knowing exactly how he performed.
Therefore, students should not attempt to write the MCAT until they have thoroughly prepared for the test. This is why we at Ivy Global make sure that our students have reached their potential and are achieving high MCAT scores on practice tests under realistic test conditions.
When do I have to write the MCAT by?
It is best to take the MCAT the same year you are applying for medical school. We recommend that you take the MCAT early to allow yourself the option of writing the test again.
Should I guess answers on the MCAT?
Absolutely. There is no penalty for guessing. For example, if you have ten seconds left and four questions unanswered on a section, you should just randomly guess on all of them.
When should I start to prepare for the MCAT?
That depends on how much you need to improve your score, and how many hours a day you can commit to studying for the MCAT. The summer is a great time to prepare for the test. Take a full practice test under realistic test conditions as soon as possible to identify the specific sections and question types that are challenging for you. Talk to one of our tutors or instructors to come up with a study plan to help you reach your full potential on the test.
What scores do I need to be a competitive applicant for law school?
Examples MCAT Scores
School MCAT Scores McGill University University of Toronto University of British Columbia University of Western Ontario Dalhousie University Memorial University of Newfoundland University of Calgary University of Manitoba
How important is the MCAT?
While a high MCAT score does not guarantee entry into medical school, a low score does render acceptance into selective schools unlikely. Most medical schools value the undergraduate GPA and the MCAT score roughly equally, but some places more emphasis on one or the other. If your undergraduate program or university is not particularly renowned, admissions officers may place more weight on your MCAT score. While GPA and MCAT are the most important factors, there are also other ones: your personal statement, reference letters, any graduate degrees, work experience, and extra-curricular activities. Some medical schools publish on their websites information on how they weigh the various criteria.
When do I get my scores?
Scores are given on different dates depending on when the examination was taken. Dates are listed here.
How does score cancellation work?
You can cancel your score immediately after completing the examination at the test centre.
