What is the MCAT^®?

The MCAT, or Medical College Admission Test, is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to help medical schools assess your:

• Mastery of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics
• Facility with problem solving and critical thinking
• Communication and writing skills
  

Along with your grades, medical schools also use the MCAT to predict your ability to succeed academically in medical school.  Nearly every U.S. medical school will require you to take the MCAT as part of the application process. 

The test is divided into four sections:

• Physical sciences
• Biological sciences 
• Verbal reasoning
• Writing sample 

The two science sections evaluate your knowledge of core concepts, scientific problem-solving skills, and ability to interpret data in a tabular or graphic format.  The verbal reasoning and writing sample sections assess your ability to comprehend, reason, and think critically, as well as your writing and analytic skills.  By learning more about the MCAT and how medical schools use it in their admission decisions, you can reduce your anxiety about it.  The AAMC has a comprehensive Web site that gives you the information you need (see the links below).

For More Information:

• Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT®) Web Site  - Free Resource!
  The AAMC has created this Web site to offer comprehensive MCAT information, including test registration information, practice tests, test-scoring information, and MCAT research data.
  
  

• Frequently Asked Questions About the MCAT® Exam - Free Resource!
  This Q&A provides you with basic, at-a-glance information about the MCAT.
  
  

• MCAT® Essentials (PDF, 21 pages) - Free Resource!
  Considered required reading for all MCAT exam candidates, the AAMC’s MCAT Essentials provides critical information regarding preparation and administration of the exam.