2026 MCAT Test and Score Release Dates

You can register for the 2026 MCAT via the AAMC MCAT Registration Site. Be sure to register early since MCAT dates can fill up very fast, and unlike other exams, it is not offered year-round. We recommend that you start planning the process as early as possible.

No, you can only register for a single MCAT test. The AAMC requires that you are only registered for one date at a time.  You will not be able to register for more than one test day until you release your registration. You can, however, re-register once you have taken the MCAT.

MCAT scores are released to students about a month after the test date. Take this into account when registering for the MCAT, as there is a point where it may not make sense to apply any longer that cycle.

Once the MCAT score is released, if you have applied your schools will automatically be updated with the score! 

MCAT scores are released at 5 pm EST on the score release date.

The standard registration fee for the MCAT is $345. This is reduced to $140 if you are part of the Fee Assistance Program. 

There is also a cost to reschedule your exam of $50 to $200, depending on how far out you reschedule it. 

If you are an international student who is testing outside the US, Canada, or US Territories, there is an additional $120 fee. 

Ideally, you should take the MCAT in any month before May (and no later than May) of your application cycle year. Alternatively, you could opt to take the MCAT in the summer before your application cycle year.

If you’re worried about having to retake the MCAT, give yourself a few months in between your test date and application submission date. That way, you can retake the exam if need be.

To discover the best time for the MCAT for you, it’s best to discuss with a knowledgeable admissions coach about your individual situation.

Once you have an MCAT test date set (or an estimated test date), it’s time to start your study process. Usually, we recommend at least 3 months of dedicated MCAT study time. AAMC, the body that puts out the MCAT, actually recommends studying for roughly 300 hours in total. This dedicated study time allows you to review MCAT content, like an MCAT Audio Course and to do MCAT practice tests to test your knowledgeable.

A good MCAT score will give you a competitive edge over applicants. A score of 511 will put you in the 80th percentile or higher, making you a stronger candidate.

It’s possible to be accepted into medical school with a score under 511, so there are no hard rules on what a good score is. For reference, in 2023, the average MCAT score of matriculants was 512.