MCAT Information and Test Dates

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is taken by virtually all students who plan to enroll in medical school in the United States or Canada. The exam is divided into four sections which consist of 1) verbal reasoning, 2) physical sciences, 3) a writing sample, and 4) biological sciences. The scoring on the verbal reasoning, physical science, and biological science sections is based on a scale of 1 to 15, with 1 being the lowest and 15 being the highest. The scores on the writing section are converted to a alphabetical score with J being the lowest and T being the highest. The letter scores represent the sum of two individual gradings.

The MCAT is used as a tool for evaluating whether to consider a student for admission. Medical schools also review grades, letters of recommendation, and the medical school application essay to determine which candidates will be selected for interviews for medical school admission. Success on the MCAT will greatly enhance chances of acceptance to medical school.

In general, most students take the MCAT during the spring of their junior year or at the beginning of their senior year; however, students may take the MCAT at any time during their academic career. To avoid delays in admission, students are advised to check with potential medical schools for MCAT score receipt deadlines.

The MCAT is given twice a year in April and August

To find out more information about the MCAT, call (319) 337-1357. The testing schedule and registration deadlines are provided below.

You can learn more about registering for the MCAT at MCAT website.