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MCAT Scheduling Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the MCAT. Feel free to comment below with any of your questions and we will try to update the list.

Table of Contents

When are the MCAT test dates?

The MCAT is offered in January, March, April, May, June, July, August and September with varying dates with around 30 total test dates per year.

U.S. MCAT® Calendar, Scheduling Deadlines, and Score Release Dates

Test Date60 Day Deadline30 Day Deadline10 Day DeadlineScore Release Date
January 14Nov. 15, 2021Dec. 15, 2021Jan. 4Feb. 15
January 15Nov. 16, 2021Dec. 16, 2021Jan. 5Feb. 15
January 20Nov. 21, 2021Dec 21, 2021Jan. 10Feb. 22
January 21Nov. 22, 2021Dec 22, 2021Jan. 11Feb. 22
March 12Jan. 11Feb. 10March 2April 12
March 25Jan. 24Feb. 23March 15April 26
April 8Feb. 7March 9March 29May 10
April 9Feb. 8March 10March 30May 10
April 29Feb. 28March 30April 19May 31
April 30March 1March 31April 20May 31
May 13March 14April 13May 3June 14
May 14March 15April 14May 4June 14
May 19March 20April 19May 9June 21
May 27March 28April 27May 17June 28
June 4April 5May 5May 25July 6
June 17April 18May 18June 7July 19
June 18April 19May 19June 8July 19
June 24April 25May 25June 14July 26
June 25April 26May 26June 15July 26
June 30May 1May 31June 20Aug. 1
July 16May 17June 16July 6Aug. 16
July 29May 30June 29July 19Aug. 30
August 5June 6July 6July 26Sept. 7
August 20June 21July 21Aug. 10Sept. 20
August 26*June 27July 27Aug. 16Sept. 27
August 27June 28July 28Aug. 17Sept. 27
September 1July 3Aug. 2Aug. 22Oct. 4
September 2*July 4Aug. 3Aug. 23Oct. 4
September 9*July 11Aug. 10Aug. 30Oct. 11
September 10July 12Aug. 11Aug. 31Oct. 11
The standard start time is 8:00 a.m. each day unless otherwise noted below. Scores are released by 5:00 p.m. ET on the scheduled score release date.

All scheduling deadlines are at 11:59 p.m. local test center time on the day of the deadline.


Download the 2022 MCAT calendar, scheduling deadlines, and score release dates for U.S. testing centers.


The 10 Day Deadline is the last date to schedule, reschedule, or cancel a reservation and the last date to edit registration information such as name, address, consent, etc.

* There will be two testing sessions offered on August 26, September 2, and September 9. Exam start times will be at 7:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.


Source: AAMC – Information Subject to Change.
How much does the MCAT cost?

The initial registration fee is $325. Click here to register for your exam!

Where do I take the MCAT?

The MCAT is a computer-based exam that is given and proctored at Prometric centers across North America.

Is the MCAT hard?

Unfortunately there isn’t an exact yes or no answer to this question. But in short, it is a manageable exam that many students excel at every year. There are many challenges that come with the MCAT exam. One of the major difficulties is simply how long it is. Sitting for a 7.5 hour exam can be very taxing and it can be difficult to stay focused with a clear mind. On top of that, the time can feel very limited for the number of questions given. However, with adequate study time, diligent use of the practice questions, and knowledge of the high-yield topics it is absolutely possible to score high on this exam.

What is a good MCAT score?

As the MCAT is just a portion of your application, there isn’t just one answer to this question. Based on your GPA, extracurriculars, letters of recommendation, and so much more can vary how high you need to score on the MCAT. However, successful applicants who matriculate into allopathic school tend to score at or above the 83rd percentile (511+). Based on how you score, you can decide which schools to apply to.

How do cancel my MCAT?

For emergency cancellation, you can call (202) 828-0690 or email mcat@aamc.org. To cancel earlier, you can follow the instructions through the MCAT Scheduling and Registration System.

How does MCAT rescheduling work?

You make any changes to location or date through the MCAT Scheduling and Registration System or by calling 202-828-0600.

How many days before MCAT can you reschedule?

You can make changes until 10 days prior to your exam.

Is there a fee for rescheduling the MCAT?

More than 60 days before your scheduled date, you can reschedule the exam for $50 and or get a $160 refund if canceled. From 30-59 days before your scheduled date, you can reschedule for $100 or get a $160 refund if canceled. From 10-29 days before your scheduled date, you can reschedule for $200 with no refund if canceled.

Is the MCAT shortened for 2022?

The test has returned to the standard schedule of 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.

Can I reschedule the MCAT for next year?

Yes.

Is 2 months enough time to study for the MCAT?

Per the AAMC, they recommend students spend at least 240 hours, with most students averaging between 300-400 hours studying for the MCAT. If completed in 2 months, a student would need to spend significant hours everyday studying. If you’re currently in school or working, I would recommend 4-6 months as you won’t be able to dedicate as much daily study time. Each individual student can customize their study schedule based on their lifestyle.

Check out our MCAT Study Tips

Should I reschedule the MCAT?

While it is important to take the MCAT prior to June of the year you want to apply for medical school, this decision should be made individually depending on how prepared you feel for the exam. However, if you decide to reschedule, make that decision as soon as possible.

Should I reschedule the MCAT?

While it is important to take the MCAT prior to June of the year you want to apply for medical school, this decision should be made individually depending on how prepared you feel for the exam. However, if you decide to reschedule, make that decision as soon as possible.

Prior to scheduling, I would recommend taking one of the many free practice tests available online. That can help you get a good baseline score and give you a better idea of how much time you will need before you get to your goal score.

How many times can I reschedule the MCAT?

As long as you are within adequate deadlines, you can reschedule the MCAT as many times as you want, although there will be fees every time you reschedule.

How many times can I take the MCAT?

The MCAT can be taken 3 times in one year, 4 times across two consecutive years and up to seven times in a lifetime.

Does rescheduling or canceling my MCAT count as one of my attempts?

If you reschedule or cancel prior to the bronze deadline, it will not count as an attempt. However a no-show or a voided score will count as an attempt.

What is a voided score on the MCAT?

While submitting at the end of an exam, you will be given the option to submit it or void it. Voiding means the test will not be scored or recorded however it does count as one of your attempts.

Can I reschedule the MCAT after the bronze deadline?

No.

How do I reschedule my MCAT after the bronze deadline?

Unfortunately after the bronze deadline of 8 days prior to the exam, only cancellations are possible. For emergency cancellations of severe illness, death of an immediate family member, or call for immediate military duty you may still receive a $135 refund as long as adequate proof is provided.

When should I take the MCAT?

Ideally, the best time to take the MCAT would be prior to June of the season in which you want to apply to medical school. If you are applying directly out of college, in the spring of your junior year.

When do MCAT scores release?

Official scores are released 30-35 days after your test date.

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