1. What is the MCAT?
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, computer-based exam administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). It assesses the knowledge and skills necessary for success in medical school, including scientific concepts, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. The MCAT is used for admissions to medical schools in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Caribbean Islands. The exam is offered multiple times throughout the year .
2. MCAT Eligibility
To be eligible to take the MCAT, candidates must be planning to apply to a health professions school, which includes:
- M.D.-granting programs
- D.O.-granting programs
- Podiatric (D.P.M)
- Veterinary medicine (D.V.M)
- Any other health-related program that accepts MCAT exam results
- Any other health-related program that accepts MCAT exam results
International candidates, including those from the UK, who have completed or are pursuing an MBBS degree, can register for the MCAT without seeking special permission.
3. MCAT Registration
Registration for the MCAT is conducted online through the AAMC website. Candidates must create an AAMC account, providing personal details such as email, full name, and gender. Once registered, candidates can schedule their exam and receive email confirmation with complete exam details. It is recommended to register at least 60 days prior to the chosen exam date .
4. MCAT Exam Pattern
The MCAT consists of four multiple-choice sections:
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems – 59 questions, 95 minutes
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills – 53 questions, 90 minutes
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems – 59 questions, 95 minutes
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior – 59 questions, 95 minutes
The total testing time is approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, with additional time for breaks, bringing the total seated time to about 7 hours and 30 minutes .
5. MCAT Scoring
Each section is scored between 118 and 132, with the mean and median at 125. The total score ranges from 472 to 528, with the mean and median at 500. The AAMC emphasizes the central portion of the score distribution, where most students score, to ensure fair assessment .
6. When to Take the MCAT
The best time to take the MCAT is when you feel most prepared. Consider factors such as when you plan to attend medical school, whether you might need to retake the exam, and if you have mastered the content tested. For optimal results, students should plan to study for the MCAT for 4-6 months .
7. MCAT Test Dates
The MCAT is offered multiple times throughout the year, typically from January through September. Specific test dates and registration deadlines can be found on the AAMC website .
8. MCAT Preparation
Effective preparation for the MCAT includes:
- Reviewing foundational subjects: biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, sociology, and biochemistry
- Practicing with official AAMC materials
- Taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Utilizing prep courses or tutoring if necessary
It’s important to create a study plan that fits your schedule and allows ample time for review and practice.
Online Tutoring for MCAT Test Preparation
AmericaTutors.com’s team is highly experienced and trained to deliver Live Online Tutoring Services across the globe. Our Live Online tutors have also been carefully selected from the highest performing tutors across the country. They have established track records of tutoring students online for the MCAT Exam.
Why choose Live Online Tutoring?
- It’s Effective. As effective as face-to-face tuition.
- It’s Convenient. Student can access their tutor and have lessons anywhere.
- It’s Flexible. The time is used according to the students’ needs and wherever the student happens to be – home, school, university, friend’s house, or traveling.
- It’s Simple. All you need is a broadband connection and a webcam (ideal).
- It’s Safe and time-saving
- It’s Fun. Many young people prefer to live online tuition (to Face-to-Face) due to their life-long familiarity with computers.
HOW IT WORKS
Find your perfect MCAT Tutor in 3 easy steps
Step 1: Send us Tutor Request Form
To help us begin crafting your path to MCAT success, let us know the details of your tuition request. If you’d like to have a consultation, one of our academic consultants will happily speak to you free of charge to craft you a specialised tuition plan.
Step 2: Get Matched with a Tutor
We will pair you with the best qualified tutor for your needs, based on the details from Step 1. We’ll always send you details of the tutor’s qualifications and experience before you proceed to make sure you’re happy with their background.
Step 3: Start Your Tuition
We then match you with your tutor and you can get going with your lessons, scheduled at a time convenient for you.From your very first session, you and your teacher will hit the ground running. You’re going to build a study plan together and start discussing your most pressing concerns.
Mode of Study:
- One-on-One Online lesson on Skype
- One-on-One Home Tuition (Selected areas only)
Course Duration:
- MCAT: 30-60hrs/Module
Course Fee: Check Fee Structure