How to Register for the MCAT

Registering for the MCAT is a straightforward process, but it’s important to review the AAMC’s rescheduling and cancellation policies in case you need to change your plans. Once you’ve selected an MCAT test date, you’ll have to complete a few steps to register for the MCAT:

1. First, make an account with the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), which develops and administers the MCAT. 
2. Once you’ve logged in to your AAMC profile, click on “Start Exam Registration”.
3. You will be asked to provide your personal information, including your address. Be sure to fill in your info as it appears on the government ID you will be using as identification on the day of the test.
4. Once you have completed all of the required forms and have reached the “Schedule” page, click “Schedule an MCAT Exam”.
5. Select your test date and location. If no seats are available for your desired location and date, you can request to be notified if an appointment becomes available.
6. Once you’ve selected your location and appointment time, click “Proceed to Checkout” to pay for your MCAT registration.

If you require testing accommodations, you must submit a request via MCAT Accommodations Online. Note that the review process may take up to 60 days, so plan accordingly. Regardless of which MCAT test date you choose, make sure you give yourself enough time to prep for the MCAT.

[ READ NEXT: What’s a Good MCAT Score? ]

How much does it cost to register for the MCAT?

In 2024, the standard cost to register for the MCAT is $335. The AAMC also offers a fee assistance program for those unable to take the MCAT without financial assistance. If you qualify for fee assistance, it reduces the cost of registering for the MCAT  to $140. Please note that if you are taking the MCAT outside of the U.S., Canada, or U.S. territories, you will be charged an extra international fee of $120 on top of the initial registration fee.

Can I change my MCAT test date?

Yes, you may change your MCAT registration, including changing your test date or test center up to 10 days before your scheduled appointment. If you want to cancel your MCAT registration, you may do so at any time, though you will only get a partial refund ($165) if you cancel less than 30 days before your test date.

Here are the details about AAMC’s three scheduling zones and rescheduling fees for standard MCAT registration:

Days Before Scheduled MCAT	MCAT Change Fee	MCAT Cancellation Refund
60 days or more	$50	$165
30-59 days	$100	$165
10-29 days	$200	No refund

Source: AAMC
* all deadlines are 11:59 p.m. local test center time

It is possible to reschedule your MCAT exam date and/or change your testing center, but you will have to pay a fee as explained in the table above. Plan carefully because you will want to make sure to make all of your changes at one time. For example, if you make a change to your test date and location together, you will only be charged one rescheduling fee. If you make these changes separately, you will be charged a rescheduling fee each time.

If you want to reschedule your MCAT, make sure:

• Your desired MCAT test date has opened and has seats available. Current availability can be found via the MCAT Registration System.
• You make changes as soon as possible to avoid pricey change fees. 
• Your changes are made at least 10 days before your scheduled exam date. After this time, it is not possible to make changes.

You can make a request for rescheduling via the MCAT Registration System. Before you reschedule, be sure to make sure that you will still receive scores back in time before your medical school application deadlines.

When should I take the MCAT?

The medical school application cycle opens in June of each year. Since many schools have a rolling admissions policy, you will want to submit your application materials and have your MCAT score in hand as early in the cycle as possible.

We generally recommend that you spread your MCAT prep over at least three to six months. So, if you are planning on taking a January or March exam, you’ll want to get started studying in September or October. If you’re testing in April, May, June, or July, then January or February is the perfect time to get started on your prep.

[ KEEP READING: Which MCAT Test Date is Right for You? ]

How should I study for the MCAT?

The first step in your test prep should be taking a free MCAT practice test to establish your baseline score. Then, calculate your MCAT score goal to decide how you should move forward with your prep. To stay motivated and on track, you may consider taking an MCAT prep course with an expert teacher or getting a private tutor.

However you choose to prep for the MCAT, you’ll want to take the time at the beginning to set a clear plan and then stick to it. We have a variety of free MCAT study plans to get your ready for your test date:

• How to Study for the MCAT in 6 Months
• How to Study for the MCAT in 3 Months
• How to Study for the MCAT in 2 Months
• How to Study for the MCAT in 1 Month