What is the MCAT: Tips, study plans, and resources

5 key takeaways about the MCAT

• The MCAT tests your critical thinking, scientific knowledge, and readiness for medical school.
• Most students spend 3–6 months studying, depending on schedule and how familiar they are with the content.
• You can take the MCAT up to seven times, but planning ahead helps avoid repeat attempts.
• A “good” MCAT score depends on the schools you’re targeting, but higher scores can expand your options.
• Free and paid prep resources can both work—what matters most is consistency and realistic planning.

Thinking about medical school? The MCAT is a major step on that journey, and getting ready for it can feel like a lot. This guide breaks down what the MCAT is, what’s on it, how long the MCAT is, how to study, and how to find MCAT prep resources that fit your life and budget.

What is the MCAT?

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is designed to measure whether you’re academically ready for medical school. It evaluates your ability to apply scientific knowledge, analyze complex passages, and think critically under time pressure.

Medical schools use your score as a major part of admissions decisions. A strong MCAT score can help you stand out, support your GPA, and increase your chances at selective programs. As you explore options, tools like Scout College Search can help you research potential med schools and programs.

What’s actually on the MCAT?

The MCAT is made up of four sections, each measuring different skills:

• Biological and biochemical foundations
• Chemical and physical foundations
• Psychological, social, and biological foundations
• Critical analysis and reasoning skills (CARS)

Each section includes a mix of passage-based questions and standalone items. The test takes about 7.5 hours, including breaks. Because most questions require analysis rather than memorization, consistent practice is one of the best ways to build endurance and improve your pacing.

How does MCAT scoring work?

The MCAT’s scoring structure includes:

• 118–132 per section
• 472–528 total score range
• 500 as the midpoint

Your MCAT percentile shows how your score compares to everyone else who took the exam. Instead of just looking at the number (like 506 or 520), the percentile tells medical schools how you did compared to other students.

What your percentile actually means:

If you score in the 80th percentile, that means:

You scored higher than 80% of test-takers

And 20% scored higher than you

Percentiles shift slightly from year to year because they’re based on how all students perform, not just you.

What to know about MCAT fees and registration

MCAT registration typically costs around $330–$375, depending on your scheduling zone and any changes you make. There may also be extra fees for late registration or rescheduling.

The AAMC’s Fee Assistance Program can reduce costs for eligible students. Since test dates fill quickly, especially in the spring, register early to lock in your preferred date and location.

How many times can I take the MCAT?

You can take the MCAT:

• Up to 3 times per year
• Up to 4 times in two years
• Up to 7 times total

Most students aim to take it once or twice. Planning early and sticking to a realistic study schedule helps you walk into test day feeling prepared.

MCAT vs. GRE: Which one should I take?

It depends on your goals. The MCAT focuses on science and reasoning skills specific to medical training. The GRE covers broader subjects, including verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, and it’s shorter overall.

If you’re exploring different graduate paths beyond medicine, you might also look at the GMAT or LSAT. Use our guides to What is a master’s degree? and What is a PhD? to help you figure out which track fits your long-term goals.

When should I start studying for the MCAT?

Most students begin studying three to six months before their exam date. Your ideal timeline depends on coursework you’ve already completed, your work or class schedule, your comfort with science content, and how you tend to perform on standardized tests.

Starting earlier gives you more time to review content, practice, and adjust your plan without feeling overwhelmed. 

How to prep for the MCAT without cramming

A balanced prep plan usually includes four main pieces:

1. Content review to refresh core concepts
2. Timed practice sets to build familiarity
3. Full-length practice exams for stamina
4. Consistent review sessions to learn from mistakes

Creating a regular weekly routine helps you stay on track. Treat each practice exam as a dry run for test day to build confidence and pacing.

Sample MCAT study plans 

There’s no one “right” way to prep, but seeing example timelines can make it easier to picture what your weeks might look like. Here are two common MCAT study plans that you can adjust to fit your life.

3-month plan (more intensive)

This fast-paced plan works well if you’ve completed most science prerequisites or can dedicate consistent study time. The goal is to move quickly through content and build endurance early.

1. Study 2–3 hours on weekdays.
   • Spend the first half of each session on content review across biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology.
   • Use the second half for short timed practice sets focused on recent topics.
   • End with a quick review of missed questions to build awareness of your patterns.
2. Use weekends for deeper review.
   • Dedicate one weekend day to long-form content review or topic deep-dives.
   • Use the other day for a full timed section or two back-to-back science sections.
   • This helps build stamina for the full 7.5-hour exam.
3. Take full-length practice exams every other week.
   • Start with a diagnostic exam before the plan begins.
   • Treat each full-length exam like test day, including breaks and timing.
   • Spend the next one to two days reviewing pacing issues, question types you miss, and topics to revisit.
4. Adjust focus using practice data.
   • Shift weekday blocks toward weak areas identified during full-length exams.
   • Add a “flex day” each week to catch up or target tough topics.
   • As you get closer to test day, reduce new content and increase practice.

This plan is ideal if you thrive with structure and have time for intensive studying.

6-month plan (more flexible)

This slower-paced plan is ideal if you’re balancing school or work and want steady progress without overwhelm. It builds strong content foundations before shifting into heavier practice.

1. Study 1–2 hours on weekdays.
   • For the first three months, focus on lighter content review through videos, textbooks, and flashcards.
   • The next three months should include more timed practice and passage analysis.
   • Rotate subjects during the week to mirror how the MCAT blends content.
2. Use weekends for longer sessions.
   • Dedicate one day a week to reviewing challenging topics, especially biochemistry, physics, and CARS.
   • Use the second day to complete two timed sections in a row to build stamina.
   • This structure keeps you progressing without burnout.
3. Take full-length practice exams every three weeks.
   • Start with a baseline exam early to identify strengths and weaknesses.
   • Use the time between exams to focus on question types or topics that challenge you.
   • Track trends to make your studying more efficient.
4. Increase practice in the final month.
   • Shift to primarily timed questions and passage-based practice.
   • Keep content review short and targeted to weak spots.
   • Add a final full-length exam seven to ten days before your test date.

This plan is great if you prefer a steady approach and need flexibility in your schedule.

How to avoid burnout while studying for the MCAT

Burnout happens when studying becomes nonstop and you never give your brain a real break. Building in recovery time is just as important as squeezing in one more practice set.

• Take short breaks every 60–90 minutes.
• Mix up tasks to stay mentally fresh.
• Keep at least one rest day per week.

Sleep is important for memory and focus. Protecting your energy helps you stay consistent and avoid feeling fried before test day.

How to study for each MCAT section with confidence

Studying for each MCAT section feels a lot easier once you understand what the test is really measuring and how to approach each part with a solid game plan.

To prep for the science-heavy sections, focus on:

• Reviewing foundational concepts
• Practicing with passage-based questions
• Identifying the root cause of mistakes

CARS stands for Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills, the MCAT section that tests how well you understand and analyze complex passages.

To prep for the CARS section, get used to:

• Reading dense articles on a variety of subjects
• Summarizing articles in your own words
• Identifying main ideas under time pressure

How can taking an MCAT prep course help?

Choosing the right MCAT prep course can give you structure, accountability, and the extra support you need to stay confident throughout your study journey.

Paid prep courses often offer:

• Structured study schedules
• Live or on-demand lessons
• Personalized tutoring
• Practice test bundles

Popular providers include Kaplan, Princeton Review, Blueprint, and Altius. Compare formats and pricing to find a course that supports your learning style and goals.

What are the best free MCAT resources?

Finding the right mix of free and paid resources can make your MCAT prep easier, more affordable, and way more effective.

MCAT prep doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. There are tons of high-quality free tools that can help you learn the content, practice real questions, and build confidence without spending anything upfront. These resources are perfect if you're on a budget or just starting your study plan and want to explore what works for you.

Some of the best free MCAT prep resources include:

• AAMC free sample questions and practice tools, which give you a feel for the actual exam format and question style.
• Khan Academy MCAT videos, covering major science topics and CARS strategies in quick, easy-to-follow lessons.
• Free practice exams from various test-prep providers, giving you full-length experience and stamina training.
• YouTube walkthroughs and content review channels, great for visual learners.
• Pre-med study groups, where you can review tricky topics, share resources, and stay motivated.

These tools give you a strong foundation without any cost, and you can always layer in paid materials later if you need more structure or additional practice. Use a mix that fits your budget, learning style, and timeline.

To find scholarships that can help you cover medical school costs, including exams, check out resources like Scholly Scholarships and scholarships for graduate students.     

Smart strategies to boost your MCAT score

Improving your MCAT score IS possible—small, consistent changes in how you study can add up to real results.

• Prioritize your weakest section to maximize score gains.
• Use timed question sets to improve pacing.
• Track all mistakes in a study journal.
• Practice under realistic conditions.
• Review every incorrect answer carefully.

Small improvements in timing and accuracy can lead to meaningful score jumps. Over time, these changes can shift your overall score and open more doors.

What MCAT scores do I need for top med schools?

Competitive medical schools often expect scores in the 510–520+ range, but every program sets its own targets. Your personal “good” MCAT score depends on the schools you’re aiming for and the rest of your application.

Look at median MCAT scores for admitted students at each school to gauge where you stand. Higher scores can give you more flexibility and opportunities when you build your school list.

How your MCAT score factors into med school admissions

Your MCAT score is a big piece of your application, but it’s definitely not the whole story. Admissions committees look at your score to understand your academic readiness, then evaluate the rest of your experiences to see the future doctor behind the numbers.

Medical schools also weigh:

• GPA
• Personal statements
• Clinical experience
• Recommendation letters
• Research

A strong MCAT score can help strengthen your application. Building a balanced profile across academics, experiences, and storytelling increases your chances.

Next steps after taking the MCAT 

Once test day is over, take time to rest and decompress. When your score arrives, compare it with your goals and the schools on your list.

If you decide to retake the exam, adjust your study plan using your performance data, especially from full-length practice tests. While applying, explore Scholly Scholarships and scholarships for graduate students to help fund your journey. This is also a great time to start researching medical schools that align with your aspirations. Use tools like Scout College Search to filter programs by location, degree offerings, and specialties. Comparing schools early can help you prioritize applications and understand prerequisites well before deadlines.

Preparing for the MCAT takes time and focus, but you can absolutely do this. Build a plan that works for your life, stay consistent, and take breaks when you need them. You’ve got this.