Before you start your MCAT test prep, you should get some basic information about the test, such as potential MCAT test dates, available locations or, typical structure of the MCAT exam.
Having this information will allow you to develop an MCAT preparation plan.
MCAT test locations
The MCAT exam is administered in several hundred locations throughout the U.S. and Canada, as well as several sites in:
- Europe
- Asia
- The Middle East
- Africa
- Australia
To find a testing location and to register for the test, click here.
MCAT test dates
For the average MCAT, registration will usually open three to four months before a test date. You may take the MCAT exam a maximum of three times per year. You can only register for one testing session at a time, but there is no set time period that you must wait before taking the test again.
To see the testing dates for this coming year, see the testing calendar here.
MCAT test structure
| Test Section | Number of Questions | Allotted Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems | 59 | 95 minutes |
| Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills | 53 | 90 minutes |
| Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems | 59 | 95 minutes |
| Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior | 59 | 95 minutes |
For more help preparing for test day, check out Peterson’s Test Prep products for practice tests, online courses, guide books, and more.
