MCAT – The Medical College Admission Test Introduction The MCAT is a national standardized multiple choice test for applicants to medical school. The exam is designed to test basic science concepts, problem-solving skills, critical thinking ability, and writing skills. Test Structure The Test consists of 144 multiple choice and two 30-minute essay questions. The total time to complete the test is over 4 hours and 20 minutes - with 3 hour, 20 minutes for multiple choice questions and another 1 hr exclusively devoted to essay writing. Fundamental concepts of physics, general chemistry, biology, and organic chemistry is required for MCAT. Topics | Description | Duration (minutes) | Number of Questions | Physical Sciences | Measures basic math skills such as algebra and trigonometry. Knowledge of physics, data interpretation and general chemistry is also tested. | 70 | 52 | Verbal Reasoning | Measures skills in critical reading and comprehension. | 60 | 40 | Writing Sample | Consists of two 30 minute essays. Measures skills in written English communication, logical reasoning, formulating effective arguments and sentences, presentation of complex ideas and critical thinking. | 60 | Two-30 minute essays | Biological Sciences | Measures knowledge of basic biology and elementary organic chemistry | 70 | 52 |
Test Dates, Registration & Fees MCAT exams are offered twice a year. It costs $210 to register for the MCAT. Registration deadlines are typically 5 weeks before the test date; late registration deadlines are typically 3 weeks before the test. For a registration packet, contact the MCAT Program Office at: MCAT Program Office
P.O. Box 4056
Iowa City, Iowa 52243-4056
Tel: 319-337-1357
You can register electronically for the MCAT on the AAMC website at www.aamc.org. Test Dates | Regular Registration | Late Registration (Requires an additional $50 Late fee) | | July 13th 2007 | Feb 14th 2007 - June 29th 2007 | June 16th 2007 | | July 24th 2007 | Feb 14th 2007 - July 10th 2007 | July 17th 2007 | | August 6th 2007 | XXX - July 23rd 2007 | July 30th 2007 | | August 9th 2007 | XXX - July 26th 2007 | Aug 2nd 2007 | | August 14th 2007 | XXX - July 30th 2007 | Aug 7th 2007 | | August 16th 2007 | XXX - Aug 2nd 2007 | Aug 9th 2007 | | August 20th 2007 | XXX - Aug 6th 2007 | Aug 13th 2007 | | September 7th 2007 | XXX - Aug 24th 2007 | Aug 31st 2007 | | September 8th 2007 | XXX - Aug 25th 2007 | Sept 1st 2007 |
Scoring Each section on MCAT is scored individually on a scale ranging from 1 to 15, with 15 as the highest. Writing Sample essays is scored alphabetically on a scale ranging from J to T, with T as the highest. The average scaled score for each Verbal Reasoning, Physical Sciences, and Biological Sciences section is approximately 8. The average scaled score for the writing sample is "N." | 
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