Reviewed by:
Third-Year Medical Student, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Reviewed: 4/25/24
Taking the MCAT is a big step in your medical school journey, so it’s important to know your options for MCAT test dates! Here is when, where, and how to take the MCAT, including 2024 key dates.
So, you’ve been preparing for the MCAT for months and are ready to take the test. First, give yourself a pat on the back for all your hard work! Studying for the MCAT is no easy feat. While studying, you may start looking for AAMC MCAT exam dates.
We’ve included all the information you need about MCAT exam dates in 2024. We’ll also talk about MCAT score release dates, where and how to take the test, and MCAT start times. Let’s get started!
The MCAT is a computer-based standardized test administered several times throughout the year. There are 30 exam dates scheduled for 2024.
The MCAT exam time starts at 8:00 AM per day.
Below are tables of the AAMC’s US test dates for 2024. The tables also include MCAT exam result dates.
Source: AAMC
The MCAT test results are typically released a month after you’ve taken the exam. Knowing these upcoming test dates should give you an idea of how to structure your MCAT study plan, create your MCAT preparation timeline, and when to reschedule the MCAT exam if needed.
Ensure you pay the MCAT costs prior to attending the exam and that you don’t miss the MCAT rescheduling cutoff dates.
Upon registering for the test, you can select the MCAT testing location that’s most convenient for you. The AAMC administers the test on the dates listed above in locations all across the U.S. You can see the exact location of your exam on your AAMC account.
Each of the 30 MCAT exam dates in 2024 has a start time of 8:00 am. For students residing in the US territories or internationally, your test dates will be different:
Release dates fall approximately 30-35 days after your test date. You can see precise score release dates on the AAMC table or MCAT schedule provided above. You can view your released test scores by logging into your AAMC account and clicking the “get your test scores” button on the website.
All scores are set to be released by 5:00 pm (EST) on the scheduled date.
Choosing your MCAT test date can be challenging, especially if you’re nervous about taking the test. Here are some tips to help you choose the best time to take the MCAT.
It’s common for MCAT test-takers to retake the exam, especially if they’re unhappy with their first score. While you may feel confident and ready to tackle the test, taking it early enough that you have more time to study and schedule a retake can give you the opportunity to boost your score if needed.
The first round of primary applications submitted by students is received by med schools in late June. Since medical schools typically have rolling admissions, you don’t want your MCAT score release date to slow down when your application is reviewed.
Consider testing in May at the latest to ensure your scores are ready before late June.
Some candidates need more time to prepare for the MCAT than others, and that’s okay! Although most test-takers will spend at least three months preparing for the test, you may need more or less time, depending on your responsibilities, how much time you study per week, and proficiency in the MCAT’s subject matter.
Ensure you’ve spent enough time studying before taking the MCAT.
Still have questions about the MCAT exam dates in 2024? Read on for more answers!
MCAT test scores are released approximately 30-35 days after your AAMC MCAT test date.
All MCAT scores are set to be released at 5:00 pm EST.
You won’t be notified that your scores have been released, but you can check your account at any time to see if they’ve been made available.
The latest MCAT date is September 14. You have until the 10-day MCAT registration deadline to schedule your test on September 4th.
When you should start preparing for the MCAT depends on your familiarity and proficiency with test content, your target score, and when you plan to apply to med school. A recent AAMC survey found that most test-takers studied for 20 hours a week for three months.
There is no best month to take the MCAT, but it helps to take the test as early as possible to ensure you can retake it if needed.
Before you register for your test, you can find a test center by inputting your address into the Pearson Vue test finder and viewing your options. You should choose a test location that is close to you for the most convenience, but have back-ups in case these locations are full.
Where you write your test doesn’t matter, but it’s recommended that you choose a testing location in your city if possible. However, if the testing locations near you aren’t available, you can test outside of your city. If this is the case, consider getting a hotel the night before to ensure you aren’t late and to limit your stress on test day.
All test dates are available on AAMC. You have to choose your test location, which you can find on the Pearson Vue test finder. However, your desired testing location may not be available when you register for the MCAT due to limited seat availability.
You’ve stressed enough over your MCAT prep; choosing your test date shouldn’t be stressful too. Ensure you give yourself enough time to retake the test if necessary before applying to med school.
Although you have until ten days before the test to schedule your date, it’s good to schedule it as far in advance as possible. That way, you won’t risk any complications, and you’ll have one less thing to stress about. Good luck with your exam!
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