How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT?

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a crucial component of the medical school application process in the U.S. and Canada. It evaluates a candidate’s knowledge of biological sciences, chemistry, physics, psychology, and critical thinking skills—areas essential for success in medical school. Given its significant impact on admissions, many aspiring doctors wonder how many times they can take the MCAT to improve their scores and strengthen their applications.

While retaking the MCAT is an option, medical schools see all attempts, and excessive retakes may raise concerns. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the official limits, how long MCAT scores remain valid, and whether retaking the exam is the right choice based on your target medical schools. This guide will explore these factors to help you make an informed decision about retaking the MCAT.

Key Takeaways

You can take the MCAT up to three times in a single year, four times in two years, and a maximum of seven times in your lifetime.
Every attempt counts, including voided exams and no-shows.
MCAT scores are typically valid for three years, though some schools accept scores up to four years old.
A competitive MCAT score varies by medical school, but a 511+ is generally considered strong, while a 522+ is highly competitive.
Before retaking, evaluate whether an improved score will significantly impact your application and whether you have the time and resources to prepare effectively.
Medical schools see all MCAT attempts, but some may focus on the most recent or highest scores rather than averaging all attempts.
Taking a gap year before medical school can be a strategic way to improve your application with research, clinical experience, and additional study time for a higher MCAT score.

By understanding these factors, students can strategically plan their MCAT attempts and optimize their chances of getting into medical school.

How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT Exam?

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a significant milestone for students aiming to pursue a career in medicine. As you prepare for this challenging exam, it’s essential to understand the policies regarding retakes, especially since the number of attempts you have is limited.

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the organization that administers the MCAT, has set clear guidelines on how many times you can take the exam:

Up to three times in a single calendar year: This means you can take the MCAT as many as three times in one year, but keep in mind that each attempt will count toward your total attempts.
Up to four times within a two-year period: You are allowed to take the test multiple times, but no more than four times within any two-year period.
Lifetime limit of seven attempts: AAMC imposes a lifetime cap of seven attempts. This means that regardless of when you take the test, once you reach seven attempts, you won’t be able to retake the MCAT.

It’s worth noting that these limits are in place to ensure fairness and to encourage students to be well-prepared before sitting for the exam. Every attempt, whether you complete the test or not, counts toward these limits. This includes:

Voided exams: If you decide to void your score at the end of the test because you’re unsure of your performance, it still counts as an official attempt.
No-shows: If you miss your exam without rescheduling, that too will be counted as an attempt.

Voiding Your MCAT Score

Sometimes, students may feel that they didn’t perform well enough to submit their scores to medical schools. In such cases, you can choose to void your score right after the exam, which means the score won’t be sent to any medical schools. However, be mindful—even though the score is not reported, it still counts as an official attempt.

If you’re uncertain about whether you should void your score, think about your reasons carefully. Voiding might be a good option if you’re feeling that your test didn’t go well, but it’s important to consider whether you have enough time to retake the MCAT before medical school application deadlines.

Why It’s Important to Plan Strategically

Because the MCAT is a critical component of your medical school application, planning your attempts wisely is essential. Since you can only retake the MCAT a limited number of times, try to maximize each attempt:

Take time to study: Preparing adequately for the MCAT can make a big difference. Consider using MCAT prep resources, such as official Blueprint MCAT courses or Khan Academy, to help you create a structured study plan.
Track your scores: You can request a breakdown of your MCAT score report after each exam, which can help you understand which areas need improvement. This feedback is invaluable for refining your study approach.

Understanding the retake policies will allow you to make a more informed decision about when and how to take the MCAT. Make sure you are fully prepared before scheduling your next attempt, as you don’t want to waste any of your limited opportunities.

How Long Are MCAT Scores Valid?

One of the most important factors to consider when planning your MCAT is its validity period. After all, you don’t want to put in months of preparation only to realize your score has expired when you’re finally ready to apply.

Generally, MCAT scores are valid for three years from the test date. However, some medical schools may accept scores up to four years old, depending on their specific admission policies. Because there’s no universal rule, it’s crucial to research individual school requirements before applying.

What Does This Mean for Your Application Timeline?

Let’s break it down with an example:

If you took the MCAT in May 2019, your score would typically be valid for applications submitted until May 2022.
However, some schools with a four-year acceptance policy might still accept this score for applications until May 2023.

To avoid surprises, check the MCAT score validity policies of your target medical schools. The AAMC’s Medical School Admissions Requirements (MSAR) database is an excellent resource for verifying this information. Many schools also list their policies on their official admissions websites.

Why Does MCAT Validity Matter?

The MCAT is a rigorous exam, and taking it more times than necessary can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. If you take the exam too early and delay applying, you risk having to retake it just to meet validity requirements. On the other hand, waiting too long to take the MCAT could put pressure on your application timeline.

How to Plan Your MCAT Timeline Wisely

Here are a few practical tips to ensure your MCAT score remains valid when you apply:

Determine Your Application Year Early – If you plan to start medical school in Fall 2027, you’ll likely submit applications in Summer 2026. That means an MCAT taken before Summer 2023 might expire before you apply.
Check Individual School Policies – Use the MSAR database or visit each school’s website to confirm how long they accept MCAT scores.
Consider a Gap Year – If you’re thinking about taking time off before applying, factor in how it affects your MCAT validity. If your score expires, you may need to retake the exam, which could impact your application strategy.
Avoid Taking the MCAT Too Early – While it’s great to be proactive, taking the MCAT years before applying may not be the best idea. If your scores expire, you’ll have to retest and relearn material, which can be an unnecessary hurdle.

By carefully planning your MCAT timeline, you can avoid the stress of retaking the exam simply due to expired scores and focus on putting together a strong medical school application.

Should I Retake the MCAT?

Deciding whether to retake the MCAT can be a tough decision for many students. It’s a personal choice influenced by a variety of factors, including the score you achieved, the schools you’re targeting, and your ability to improve. Here are some essential things to think about before deciding whether a retake is the right move.

What Score Is Considered Competitive?

Understanding where your score stands in relation to the average accepted score at your desired medical school is key to making an informed decision. Here’s a general breakdown of scores:

A score of 504 is often viewed as the minimum competitive score for many medical schools. It’s considered on the lower end, but many schools will still consider applicants with scores in this range.
A score of 511 is generally considered strong and increases your chances of acceptance to most schools. It’s a score that puts you in a more competitive position and reflects a solid understanding of the material.
A score of 522 or above is highly competitive, especially for top-tier medical schools. Students aiming for highly selective institutions, like Harvard, Stanford, or Johns Hopkins, should target scores in this range. A score of 528 is the maximum, and while achieving this is challenging, it places you in an excellent position for competitive programs and scholarships.

If your score is lower than you had hoped, retaking the exam could give you a chance to improve your chances of acceptance—especially if your current score is below the median of your target schools.

Do You Need a Higher Score?

Before deciding to retake the MCAT, research the average MCAT scores of accepted students at the medical schools you’re interested in. Schools usually publish the average MCAT score of their incoming class, so knowing where your score stands in relation to this can help you decide whether a retake would be beneficial.

For example, if the average score of accepted applicants at your dream school is 512, but your score is 505, it might be worth considering a retake. On the other hand, if your score is close to the median or slightly above it, retaking may not significantly boost your chances.

Do You Have the Time and Resources to Improve?

Retaking the MCAT is no small task—it requires a significant time investment and a structured study plan. Here are a few considerations to make sure you’re ready for a retake:

Study time: You’ll need to dedicate substantial time to preparation. The MCAT is a rigorous exam, and retaking it without additional preparation might not lead to a better score. Many students spend months preparing, often taking full-length practice tests and reviewing their weak areas.
MCAT prep courses: Consider enrolling in an MCAT prep course, such as Blueprint MCAT, which offers structured study schedules, practice exams, and personalized study resources. These courses can help you focus your efforts and ensure you’re covering all necessary content areas.
Targeted review: Your retake should be based on a detailed understanding of your weaknesses from the first exam. Did you struggle with certain sections like CARS or the biological sciences? Focus your review efforts on these areas.
Practice exams: Take several practice MCATs before retaking the test. This will not only help you familiarize yourself with the test format but also allow you to track your progress.

Will Medical Schools See All Your Scores?

This is an important consideration when thinking about retaking the MCAT. Medical schools will see all of your MCAT attempts, but there are some important details to note:

Schools see all attempts: All MCAT attempts count, even if you voided the exam or didn’t show up. The AAMC tracks every attempt, and schools will see the full history.
Void option: If you feel like you did poorly on the exam, you can choose to void your score. This means the exam will not be reported to medical schools, but it still counts as an official attempt toward your lifetime limit of seven attempts. Use the void option strategically and make sure it’s worth it.
Impact of multiple low scores: Having multiple low scores on your record can be concerning for admissions committees, especially if there’s no significant improvement in your retake. Schools may question your ability to succeed in medical school, so it’s important to carefully consider if retaking will lead to a meaningful improvement in your score.

Before retaking, make sure to weigh the potential impact on your application. If your score is close to the average for your target schools, a retake may help. However, if you’ve already taken the exam several times, multiple low scores may hurt your application rather than help it.

How To Decide Whether Taking the MCAT Again Is Right for You?

Deciding whether to retake the MCAT is a big decision, and there are several factors to weigh before you make that choice. Here’s a more detailed look at the key scenarios you should consider to help you determine if retaking the MCAT is the right move for you.

1. Do You Need a Higher MCAT Score?

Your first step is understanding whether a higher score would significantly impact your chances of admission to your desired medical schools. Each medical school has its own average MCAT score for admitted students, which you can usually find on their admissions page or via resources like the AAMC Medical School Admissions Requirements (MSAR). It’s essential to compare your current score with these averages.

Research the Average Scores: Check the MCAT scores for your target schools. Many schools publish their average MCAT score for accepted applicants on their websites. For example, a school might report that their average score for accepted students is 515, but your score is currently 505. This suggests that retaking the MCAT might be a good idea if you’re aiming for a more competitive score.
Consider Your Target Score: Medical schools generally look for a competitive MCAT score that aligns with their average, but other factors like GPA, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters also play a role. However, if your score is significantly lower than the school’s average, it may hurt your chances.
Check for Flexibility: Some schools employ a strategy called superscoring, where they combine the highest individual section scores across multiple attempts. Others may focus more on your most recent score. Understanding your school’s policy can help guide your decision to retake the test or not.

2. Do You Have the Time, Energy, and Strategy to Improve Your Score?

Retaking the MCAT requires a serious commitment of time and effort. It’s not just about wanting to improve your score – it’s about having a clear plan and the resources to make it happen.

Time: Preparing for the MCAT is time-consuming. It’s recommended that students spend at least 3-6 months preparing for the exam, depending on their baseline knowledge and score goals. If you’re juggling other commitments, such as a job or classes, you’ll need to decide if you have enough time to devote to a focused MCAT study plan. It might mean cutting back on other activities to focus on studying full-time.
Energy: MCAT preparation can be mentally exhausting. You’ll need to have the energy to study consistently, tackle practice exams, and review content. Make sure you’re in a mental and physical state that will allow you to commit to this level of focus. It’s important to ask yourself if you can keep up with the demands of studying for several months without burnout. Take care of your well-being to ensure you can stay energized and motivated.
Strategy: Having a study strategy is key to improving your MCAT score. Random studying won’t get you far – you need a structured approach. Some students choose to enroll in MCAT prep courses like Blueprint MCAT or Kaplan MCAT, which offer tailored study plans, practice exams, and expert guidance. These courses can help you pinpoint weaknesses and refine your strategy for improvement.

Additionally, you’ll need to be willing to take full-length practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual test day experience. This helps with stamina and familiarity with the test format so you can gauge your progress.

3. Is Retaking the MCAT Worth It?

It’s important to honestly assess whether retaking the MCAT will be worth the effort, especially if you’re already juggling other commitments or have taken the test multiple times. Consider these questions:

Can you realistically improve your score? If your initial score was below your target by a significant margin, or if you believe you could improve with more focused study, a retake might be the right choice.
Have you hit a plateau? Some students reach a point where no amount of studying seems to make a difference. If that’s the case, taking a step back and reassessing your study methods or taking a break might be necessary before retaking.
Will your application be stronger with a higher score? A higher MCAT score might make a big difference in your medical school applications, especially if you’re applying to highly competitive programs. But if your score is close to the average for your desired schools, it may not be worth the stress of retaking the exam.

4. Other Factors to Consider

Cost: Retaking the MCAT comes with fees for registration and prep materials. Make sure you factor in these costs when deciding. You can find more information about the registration fees on the AAMC MCAT website.
Impact on Your Application: Some schools may view multiple MCAT attempts negatively, interpreting them as a sign of lack of preparation or inconsistency. It’s worth researching how different schools view multiple attempts so you can make an informed decision. Some schools may emphasize the most recent or highest score, while others may average all attempts.

Retaking the MCAT is a personal decision that requires careful thought and planning. By evaluating your current score, understanding the time and effort needed for a retake, and weighing the pros and cons, you can decide if retaking the exam aligns with your goals. Make sure to research each medical school’s policies and review your scores to see if a retake will make a meaningful difference in your application.

Do Medical Schools Discount Old Scores?

When applying to medical school, it’s important to understand how your MCAT scores are viewed. Medical schools typically consider all of your MCAT attempts, but they may focus more on recent or higher scores depending on their specific policies. Here’s a breakdown of how schools typically handle MCAT scores:

1. Most Recent Score

Some medical schools prioritize your most recent score when reviewing your application. If you take the MCAT multiple times, this score will likely carry the most weight in your decision-making process. Schools that adopt this policy want to see your current abilities, and focusing on the most recent attempt can give a clearer picture of your academic readiness.

2. Average of All Attempts

Other schools may opt to average all your attempts. This means that if you’ve taken the MCAT several times, the admissions committee will calculate the mean score across all your attempts. This approach can help balance out low scores from earlier tests, but it also means that consistently lower scores can impact your overall application.

3. Superscoring

A growing number of medical schools use a superscoring policy. This means they’ll look at your highest section scores across multiple attempts and combine them to create your best possible overall score. For example, if you scored highest in the Biological and Biochemical section on one test and highest in the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section on another, the school may combine the best scores from each section to create a “superscore.” This can give you an advantage if you perform well in some sections but struggle in others.

4. Considerations for Multiple Attempts

While many schools will focus on your highest or most recent scores, it’s worth noting that some might view multiple attempts with caution. Admissions committees may interpret several retakes as a sign of academic difficulty or a lack of preparation, which could potentially hurt your application. However, this isn’t always the case, and some schools are more understanding of retakes, especially if you can demonstrate significant improvement.

What Should You Do?

To make an informed decision about whether to retake the MCAT, it’s crucial to research each medical school’s policy. Many schools have specific guidelines on how they handle multiple MCAT scores. You can usually find this information on the school’s admissions website or by contacting their admissions office directly.

Here are a few tips to help you navigate this:

Check admissions policies: Before retaking the exam, verify how your chosen schools evaluate MCAT scores. Some schools, such as Harvard Medical School, might focus more on the most recent attempt, while others, like Stanford University, may use a superscoring approach.
Look for trends: Review the average scores of accepted students at your target schools. If your score is below the median, it might be worth considering a retake. But if it’s close to or above the average, you may not need to retake the test at all.
Strategize wisely: If you decide to retake the exam, ensure that you can significantly improve your score to avoid multiple low scores that might hurt your chances. Focus your prep on the areas where you need the most improvement.

Understanding how schools view multiple MCAT attempts will help you make a smart decision about retaking the test. Whether it’s focusing on your most recent score, averaging all your attempts, or using a superscore approach, knowing the policies in advance can save you time and help you present the best version of your academic abilities to medical schools.

What Are the Possible Reasons To Delay Medical School?

For many pre-med students, the decision to delay medical school for a better MCAT score is a critical one. While it’s tempting to dive straight into medical school after completing your undergraduate degree, taking a gap year to improve your application can be a smart move. This time can be used to focus on key areas that will not only improve your MCAT score but also make you a more competitive applicant overall. Here’s how you can make the most out of a gap year:

1. Gaining Volunteer and Clinical Experience

Hands-on experience is highly valued by medical schools. Medical programs want to see that you’re not only academically prepared but also have a clear understanding of the medical field and are committed to serving others. A gap year provides ample opportunities to build this experience.

Volunteer in Hospitals or Clinics: Volunteering in a healthcare setting gives you firsthand insight into the daily workings of medical professionals. You’ll be able to observe doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers while interacting with patients. This exposure can strengthen your application and show medical schools that you’re dedicated to understanding the realities of patient care.
Research Labs: Engaging in medical research, especially if it’s in a field related to your interests, can be an excellent way to build your resume. Whether it’s lab-based or field research, working on research projects demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving, and an understanding of scientific methods, all of which are crucial in medical school.
Shadowing Physicians: Spending time shadowing doctors provides invaluable insights into the medical profession. It helps you understand the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of being a physician. Plus, it can help you decide if the day-to-day aspects of medicine are truly what you want from your career. Most importantly, physician shadowing is a great way to make connections in the medical field, which may lead to strong letters of recommendation when applying to medical school. Learn more about the importance of shadowing here.

2. Researching Medical Schools

With over 150 accredited medical schools in the U.S., choosing the right one for you is crucial. Not all schools are the same—each has its own culture, strengths, and focus areas. A gap year allows you time to conduct thorough research and select the schools that align best with your career goals and personal values.

Identifying the Right Fit: Spend your gap year learning about the different medical programs available. Some schools might have a strong focus on primary care, while others may emphasize research or specialize in certain areas of medicine. It’s essential to match your aspirations with the right institution. You can check out the AAMC website for detailed information on medical schools.
Reaching Out to Admissions: This is the perfect time to contact admissions offices directly. Ask about their specific application requirements, interview process, and any other details that might help you prepare. If possible, consider scheduling a visit to get a feel for the campus culture.
Networking with Current Medical Students: Networking can provide a behind-the-scenes look at what life is truly like at a particular medical school. Try reaching out to current students through social media or professional networks such as LinkedIn. You can also attend virtual open houses or medical school fairs to connect with students and admissions staff.

3. Determining If Medical School Is the Right Path

Medical school is an intense and long journey that demands a high level of commitment. A gap year offers the time needed for introspection—a chance to reflect on whether pursuing a career in medicine is the right choice for you.

Evaluate Your Motivation: Take time during your gap year to think about why you want to become a doctor. Medical school requires years of hard work, long hours, and emotional resilience. You need to ensure that your passion for medicine is strong enough to sustain you through the challenges of medical school and beyond.
Explore Alternative Healthcare Careers: If, after careful reflection, you feel that traditional medical school might not be the best fit, you might find alternative healthcare careers that align better with your interests. Whether it’s becoming a physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or a healthcare researcher, many rewarding careers in the healthcare field don’t require an MD. Use your gap year to explore other options, and consider taking informational interviews with professionals in these fields. Visit ExploreHealthCareers.org for more career options in healthcare.

By taking the time to reflect on your goals and interests during a gap year, you’re making a thoughtful decision that can set you up for a fulfilling career in healthcare—whether it’s as a physician or in another important role.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT in a Year?

You can take the MCAT up to three times in a single year. However, it’s essential to consider your preparation level and whether you are ready for the exam before taking it multiple times in one year. Many students choose to space out their attempts to give themselves time for preparation between tests.

2. What Happens if I Void My MCAT Score?

If you choose to void your MCAT score, the exam will not be reported to medical schools, but it will still count as an attempt. Voiding may be a strategic choice if you feel that your performance wasn’t up to par. Keep in mind that even a voided exam counts toward the seven-lifetime attempts allowed by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).

3. How Long Are MCAT Scores Valid?

MCAT scores are valid for three years from the test date. However, some medical schools may accept scores up to four years old, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific admission requirements of the schools you’re applying to.

4. Should I Retake the MCAT?

Whether or not to retake the MCAT depends on several factors. If your score is below the median score for your target medical schools, retaking it might improve your chances. You should also evaluate if you have enough time to prepare thoroughly for a higher score. Remember, a higher score could also make you eligible for merit-based scholarships.

5. Do Medical Schools Look at All My MCAT Attempts?

Yes, most medical schools review all your MCAT attempts. However, many schools focus more on the most recent or highest score. Some schools may even consider superscoring, where they combine the highest section scores from multiple attempts. It’s important to research each medical school’s admissions policy to understand how they view MCAT attempts.

6. Can I Delay Medical School if I Need More Time to Improve My MCAT Score?

It’s not uncommon for students to take a gap year to improve their MCAT score, gain additional clinical experience, or reflect on their goals. If you feel that you need more time to strengthen your application, a gap year can be an excellent opportunity to focus on volunteer work or explore other aspects of your career path in medicine.

Conclusion

Preparing for the MCAT is a significant commitment, but it’s a crucial step toward entering medical school. With only seven lifetime attempts allowed, it’s essential to be strategic about how and when you take the exam. Be sure to allocate enough time for thorough preparation, research the admission requirements for your target schools, and consider whether retaking the exam aligns with your goals. If you need additional help preparing, check out resources like Blueprint MCAT for guided preparation and support.

Ultimately, your MCAT score is an essential part of your medical school application, but it’s not the only factor. A well-rounded application that highlights your clinical experience, volunteer work, and commitment to the medical field will significantly boost your chances. By understanding the MCAT retake policies, preparing effectively, and keeping your long-term goals in mind, you can successfully navigate this critical part of your medical journey.