MCAT Guide

Owl with MCAT section symbols
What is the MCAT?

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized examination run by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) that is used as a tool to assess applicants for medical schools around the world.

Good to Know

The MCAT is entirely multiple choice and is taken on a computer in an AAMC approved testing center. In the exam room you will not be allowed any food, water or outside electronic devices. All your personal belongings will be locked in a locker that you can only access during scheduled breaks between sections.

Retakes

You can take the MCAT a maximum of 7 times in your lifetime. In one calendar year you can take the MCAT 3 times MAX, and over two calendar years you can take it 4 times MAX. Most schools only look at your last MCAT score, so if you are retaking it make sure you improve your score. Queen's is the only school in Ontario that looks at your best score.

Cost

Although you can take the MCAT multiple times, keep in mind that it is not a cheap test. It costs $345 USD if you are taking it in Canada or the US, and more if you are taking it elsewhere. Also consider that seats in test centers are limited, so if you cannot find a spot at a nearby center you will need to write the MCAT in another region, and that may have additional associated costs.

MCAT Registration

The MCAT is offered multiple times throughout the year. Register early to secure your preferred test date and location. Visit the AAMC website for registration information.
MCAT Sections
Ontario Medical School MCAT Requirements
Study Strategies