Understanding MCAT Scores
Everything you need to know about MCAT scoring: the 472–528 scale, section breakdowns, percentile rankings, what medical schools expect, and how to interpret your results.
How Is the MCAT Scored?
The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) uses a unique scoring system that differs from most standardized exams. Understanding how MCAT scores work is essential for setting realistic goals and interpreting your results in the context of medical school admissions.
The exam consists of four scored sections, each scored on a scale from 118 to 132. The midpoint of each section is 125. Your total MCAT score is the sum of all four sections, ranging from 472 to 528, with a midpoint of 500.
There is also an unscored trial section that the AAMC uses for research purposes. This section does not count toward your total score, and you will not know which questions belong to it during the exam.
118–132 Per Section, 472–528 Total
Each section tests a distinct domain of knowledge and reasoning. Here is how the scoring breaks down across all four parts of the MCAT.
Important: Raw scores (the number of questions you answer correctly) are converted to scaled scores through a statistical process called equating. This ensures that scores are comparable across different test dates, even if one version of the exam was slightly harder or easier than another.
MCAT Score Percentiles
Percentiles indicate what proportion of test-takers scored at or below your level. The table below shows approximate percentile rankings for common total MCAT score ranges, based on recent AAMC data.
Source: AAMC MCAT percentile ranks. Percentiles are updated annually and may vary slightly from year to year.
What Is a Good MCAT Score for Medical School?
The answer depends on which medical schools you are targeting and whether you plan to apply to MD, DO, or both types of programs.
Average MCAT Scores
The mean MCAT score across all test-takers is approximately 500, which corresponds to the 50th percentile. However, the average score among students who actually matriculate into medical school is significantly higher.
- MD matriculants: Average total score of approximately 511–512 (82nd–85th percentile)
- DO matriculants: Average total score of approximately 504–505 (64th–68th percentile)
- Top-20 MD schools: Average total score of approximately 519–522 (96th–99th percentile)
Setting Your Target Score
Dr. Donnelly recommends using the following guidelines when setting your MCAT score goals:
- 510+ — Competitive for most MD programs
- 515+ — Competitive for top-tier MD programs
- 520+ — Competitive for the most selective schools (Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Stanford, etc.)
- 500–505 — Competitive for DO programs and some less-selective MD schools
Remember that your MCAT score is only one component of your application. GPA, research experience, clinical hours, personal statement, and letters of recommendation all play important roles.
Understanding Individual Section Scores
Medical schools review both your total score and individual section scores. A balanced performance across all four sections is generally preferred over a very high score in one area and a low score in another.
Chem/Phys
125
50th percentile midpoint. Tests general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics in biological contexts.
CARS
125
50th percentile midpoint. Tests reading comprehension and analytical reasoning with humanities and social science passages.
Bio/Biochem
125
50th percentile midpoint. Tests biology, biochemistry, and organic chemistry in living systems contexts.
Psych/Soc
125
50th percentile midpoint. Tests psychology, sociology, and biology foundations of behaviour.
A section score of 128 or higher (approximately 88th–93rd percentile) is generally considered strong for competitive MD programs. For the most selective schools, aim for 130+ per section (97th+ percentile). Canadian medical schools place particular emphasis on the CARS section, often requiring a minimum score of 128 or 129.
If one section score is significantly lower than the others, it may raise a red flag with admissions committees. Medical schools want to see that you can perform consistently across all domains. Working with a tutor like Dr. Donnelly can help identify and address your weakest section before test day.
MCAT Score Validity and Retake Rules
How Long Are MCAT Scores Valid?
MCAT scores are valid for two to three years, depending on the medical school. Most schools accept scores that are no more than three years old at the time of matriculation, although some schools have a stricter two-year policy.
For example, if you plan to matriculate in August 2027, most schools will accept MCAT scores from January 2024 onwards. However, you should always check the specific policies of each school on your list, as requirements vary.
The AAMC keeps your scores on file indefinitely, but you choose which scores to send to schools through the MCAT Score Reporting system.
MCAT Retake Policy
The AAMC allows you to take the MCAT up to three times in a single calendar year, up to four times over a two-year period, and up to seven times in a lifetime. These limits are firm and cannot be waived.
When you retake the MCAT, most medical schools will see all of your scores. Policies on how they handle multiple scores vary:
- Most recent score: Some schools focus primarily on your latest attempt
- Highest score: Some schools consider only your highest total score
- All scores reviewed: Many schools review your full score history to assess trends
If you are considering a retake, Dr. Donnelly recommends having a concrete study plan that addresses the specific weaknesses from your previous attempt. A retake without a significantly different preparation strategy is unlikely to produce a meaningfully higher score.
When Do You Get Your MCAT Scores?
MCAT scores are released approximately 30 to 35 days after your test date. The AAMC publishes an exact score release schedule at the beginning of each testing year, so you will know the date in advance.
Scores are typically released at 5:00 PM Eastern Time on the scheduled date. You can view your scores by logging into your AAMC account. Your score report will include:
- Your scaled score for each of the four sections (118–132)
- Your total scaled score (472–528)
- Percentile ranks for each section and your total score
- Confidence bands showing the range within which your true score likely falls
You can then send your scores to medical schools through the AMCAS, AACOMAS, or TMDSAS application services. There is no limit on the number of schools you can send your scores to, and score reporting is included as part of the application service fees.
It is important to note that you can void your exam at the end of your testing session if you feel the test did not go well. A voided exam will not appear on your record, and no score will be generated. However, once you see your score, you cannot retroactively void it.