How Long Does It Take to Get MCAT Results

After taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), you'll typically receive your score about 30-35 days after your test date. Because of that timing, it's important to plan your test date strategically. Your score release date can affect when you submit applications, whether you have time for a retake, and how competitive you'll be during the admissions cycle.

To help you plan, we've outlined the latest MCAT score release dates and application timing considerations. Whether you're scheduling your first MCAT or waiting for results, understanding the process can help you stay on track and move through the application process confidently.

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MCAT Test and Score Release Dates

The 2026 MCAT test dates below can help you plan strategically. Being intentional about your test date can help you avoid application delays and keep more flexibility for retakes if needed.

Find your ideal MCAT test date below, based on how long you need to study beforehand, scheduled score release dates, and when you want to submit your primaries.

Rescheduling Fees

Sometimes it’s unavoidable that your MCAT test date needs to change. The AAMC allows students to reschedule or cancel their exam, but there are fees involved that vary based on how close you are to your scheduled test date.

Current standard rescheduling fees are:

• $55 if you reschedule 60 or more days before your exam. If canceling, $175 will be refunded.
• $110 if you reschedule 30-59 days before your exam. If canceling, $175 will be refunded.
• $210 if you reschedule 10-29 days before your exam. If canceling, no refund will be issued.

Fee Assistance Program (reduced fees):

• $25 if you reschedule 60 or more days before your exam. If canceling, $75 will be refunded.
• $45 if you reschedule 30-59 days before your exam. If canceling, $75 will be refunded.
• $85 if you reschedule 10-29 days before your exam. If canceling, no refund will be issued.

There is a 10-day deadline to schedule, reschedule, or cancel your MCAT exam. You cannot make any additional changes less than 10 days before your test. Scheduling policies and fees can change, so always confirm information directly through the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) before making changes to your registration.

Learn More: Applying for MCAT Accommodations

Why Does It Take So Long to Get My Results?

It takes so long to get your test scores because MCAT scores are scaled scores (converted from a raw score) and equated (adjusted for minor difficulty differences on other test dates). This process takes 30-35 days. The MCAT isn’t graded on a curve with other pre-medical students.

In addition, the 4-week waiting period allows the AAMC to review any test-day concerns submitted by examinees, including issues related to testing conditions. This review process helps ensure the validity and fairness of all MCAT scores.

MCAT test results are typically released by 5 PM EST on the scheduled release date. While scores may appear earlier in the day, all scores are guaranteed to be available by 5 PM EST.

Read Next: The 4 MCAT Sections: A Detailed Breakdown + How to

What If My Score Is Lower Than Expected?

If you receive a total score that is lower than you were expecting, the best next step is to reassess your application strategy and decide whether to adjust your plan or retake the MCAT.

Here are some common options:

• Adjust your school list: Focus more heavily on schools where your MCAT score is within or closer to the accepted range, and reduce emphasis on highly competitive reach programs. You can even consider programs that don’t require the MCAT.
• Retake the MCAT: If you believe you can significantly improve your score, a retake may make sense. Just keep in mind that this can impact your timeline. The AAMC allows for 3 retakes in a single calendar year, with an overall lifetime limit of no more than 7.
• Consider a gap year: If your score is below your target range, taking an extra year to prep can give you time to improve your MCAT score. More time can also help you boost extracurriculars and GPA, improve your personal statement, and refine your application.
• Request a rescore: If you believe there was an error in your scoring, you can request an official Rescore Request in the MCAT Registration System within 30 calendar days of your score release date. The fee for rescore requests is $80.
• Get MCAT tutoring or structured support: Targeted MCAT preparation with tutoring or a structured study plan can help you identify weaknesses and improve your score on a retake.

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