2024 MCAT Test Dates and Everything You Need to Know to Register

Sketchy here—if you didn’t drop your phone in the ocean while taking snorkel selfies on your last summer vacation hurrah (seriously who would do that), then you might have heard the news. No, we’re not talking about the new pizza oven in the basement of the science building, though that’s a game changer. We’re talking about the 2024 MCAT test dates. In case you’re scanning this super fast in the back of genetics lecture, we just said 2024 MCAT TEST DATES. Yeah, we know, it’s uh kinda terrifying. To help with the fears, we’ve put together all the need-to-know details. Scroll down for the top hits, and then you can get back to TikTok.

First, a couple important links to bookmark: 

• Find all the important info about the MCAT test dates and registration
• In order to register you need an AAMC account
• A quick one-pager of the 2024 MCAT Schedule

FAQs:

What is the MCAT?

The Medical College Admission Test (i.e. the MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice, computer-based test administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). It’s about 7.5 hours long and designed to test future medical students on the key prerequisites required for success in medical school and clinical practice. An MCAT score is required to apply to nearly all medical schools in the United States and Canada. According to the testmaker, over 85,000 students take the exam every year.

What’s on the MCAT?

• Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (95 minutes, 59 questions)
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) (90 minutes, 53 questions)
• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (95 minutes, 59 questions)
• Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (95 minutes, 59 questions)
  
  
  

What are recommended study resources?

For dedicated content review, get Sketchy MCAT to study and actually retain high-yield topics & sub-topics on the MCAT. Sketchy uses research-proven memorization techniques that turn MCAT material into unforgettable stories to make learning more effective and fun! We’ve got both a Science Review Course that covers all your science related topics and a Prep Essentials Bundle that includes everything in the Science Review plus our CARS course and the AAMC bundle. 

When should I study for the MCAT?

Most students allot 3-6 months of dedicated time for MCAT prep, though students with heavier school or work schedules should leave more time (up to a year or more). To make your study schedule, work backwards from your test date, make a weekly schedule, and start your prep with enough lead time to study 250-300 hours total.

When should I take the MCAT?

Think about your medical school admission deadlines and MCAT score release dates to make sure you’ll have your scores before applications are due. Typically, the May/June test dates are popular MCAT taking times because you’ll have results in for med school applications due in the Fall-Winter.

When should I register for the MCAT?

MCAT registration for test dates January-June 2024 will open on October 24, 2023 and October 25, 2023 at 12pm ET depending on where your test center location is. Roughly, if you're located in the Eastern Time Zone, you'll be able to register on the 24th otherwise registration will open for you on the 25th. Definitely look at this map so you can mark your calendar.

If you plan to take the test in that time frame, register as soon as your registration date opens. Seats fill up fast, so if you want a local testing center you will want to reserve the seat right away. You can always change your test date later if necessary (albeit with a fee, depending on how far out from the test date you are rescheduling).

How much does the MCAT cost?

The MCAT registration fee is $335. With the Fee Assistance Program, registration fee is reduced to $140. Note: Students testing outside the US, Canada, or US Territories will be charged a $120 International fee in addition to the initial registration fee. International fees are non-refundable upon registration cancellation. Learn more here.

What are the rescheduling or cancellation process and fees?

Rescheduling fees can vary from $50 to $200 ($20-$80 with the Fee Assistance Program) depending on when you reschedule. The latest you can reschedule is 10 days prior to your test date. For cancellation, you can receive $165 ($70 with the Fee Assistance Program) up to 30 days prior to your exam. After 30 days, you won’t get a refund.