MCAT Guide
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. Schools differ in which sitting they use: many Ontario schools use the most recent score, while Queen's uses the best score. Calgary uses the best CARS score, and SFU uses the highest score from the first 2 valid attempts in the past 5 years.
Cost
Although you can take the MCAT multiple times, keep in mind that it is not a cheap test. It costs $355 USD for the 2026 testing year before applicable taxes, with a $130 USD international fee for Canadian test centres. This means Canada-based registrants generally start at $485 USD before tax, and more if they 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