MCAT exam – What you need to know

The MCAT is the gatekeeper for most med schools in the US and Canada. It tests biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, sociology and critical thinking. Knowing the test’s layout, timing, and scoring can save you hours of confusion later. In this guide we’ll break down the sections, recommend a realistic study schedule, and share proven resources that actually help you improve.

Understanding the MCAT format

The exam has four sections, each 95 minutes long: Biological & Biochemical Foundations, Chemical & Physical Foundations, Psychological, Social, & Biological Foundations, and Critical Analysis & Reasoning Skills (CARS). Scores range from 118 to 132 per section, with a total score between 472 and 528. Most schools look for a combined score of 510 or higher, but the exact target depends on the program you want.

Each section mixes multiple‑choice questions with passage‑based items. The CARS section, for example, pulls from humanities and social science passages, so you’ll need strong reading comprehension and speed. Knowing which sections you’re weaker in early on lets you allocate study time where it matters most.

Building an effective study plan

Start with a diagnostic test from the AAMC or a reputable prep company. This tells you your baseline and highlights content gaps. Most students spend 3‑4 months prepping, but the exact timeline depends on how many hours you can study each week. A typical plan looks like this:

• Weeks 1‑2: Review core concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology.
• Weeks 3‑6: Do focused practice sets for each subject, mixing content review with passage questions.
• Weeks 7‑9: Full‑length practice exams every 5‑7 days, followed by detailed review of missed questions.
• Weeks 10‑12: Refine timing strategies, work on CARS passages daily, and polish weak spots.

Keep a study log to track how long you spend on each topic and what score you get on practice questions. Adjust the plan if you’re consistently missing a certain type of question.

Resources matter. The AAMC official guide, Section Bank, and Full‑Length Practice Tests are non‑negotiable. For supplemental material, many students use Khan Academy videos, ExamKrackers books, or Next Step/Blueprint practice questions. Choose one or two supplemental sources to avoid information overload.

Test‑day tips: bring your ID, two admission tickets, and a snack. Arrive early, dress in layers (test centers can be chilly), and practice deep‑breathing to keep nerves in check. Remember the exam isn’t a marathon; it’s four 95‑minute sprints. If a question stumps you, flag it, move on, and return if time permits.

Finally, schedule a brief break after the exam to decompress. Your score will arrive later, but the effort you put in will pay off in your med school applications. Use this guide as a roadmap, stay consistent, and you’ll walk into the testing center feeling prepared and confident.