How Much Does the MCAT Cost?
When it comes to getting into med school, there’s no shortage of costs—and the MCAT is no exception. From registration fees to the cost of prep materials and even travel expenses, budgeting for this essential exam can be a headache. But don’t worry, we’ll break it all down for you so you can plan ahead and (hopefully) avoid any surprises!
MCAT Registration Fees
For those taking the MCAT in the U.S. and Canada, the standard registration fee is $345. If you’re an international test-taker, brace yourself for an additional $120 fee, bringing the total to #455. It’s important to note that this international fee is non-refundable, so plan carefully.
Note that all costs are in USD unless stated otherwise.
Fee Assistance Program
If you’re eligible, the AAMC offers a Fee Assistance Program that brings the cost down to $140. The program also includes access to free or discounted prep resources. This program is crucial for students facing financial challenges?.
Read more about how to register for the MCAT and how to choose the right test date.
Rescheduling and Cancellation Fees
Life happens—you might need to reschedule your MCAT date. But be warned: the closer you get to test day, the more it’s going to cost you. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 60 or more days out: $50
- 30-59 days out: $100
- 10-29 days out: $200?
And if you need to cancel, refunds are available but don’t expect to get your full fee back. For example, canceling 60 or more days in advance will only get you $170 back. For more information, read our How to Reschedule or Cancel Your MCAT article.
If you’re part of the Fee Assistance Program, you do get a break with lower fees, but rescheduling and cancellation can still be a hit to your wallet?.
Additional reading: Steps to Cancel or Reschedule Your MCAT
MCAT Preparation Costs
When it comes to MCAT prep, there’s a wide range of costs depending on your approach. Let’s break it down:
Self-Study
While self-study can be more affordable, it’s nowhere near free. MCAT-specific study guides from companies like Kaplan, The Princeton Review, and Examkrackers, along with practice materials from the AAMC and third-party providers like Blueprint and Altius, can add up quickly. There are also integrated platforms that combine content review and practice materials, such as those offered by Magoosh and KrackU.
However, relying solely on self-study can be risky if you’re not highly disciplined or if you lack a clear study plan. The stakes are high, and if you end up needing to retake the exam, those initial savings could turn into a costly mistake.
Prep Courses
Investing in a structured MCAT prep course, like what we offer at Prep101, can be a more effective use of both time and money, especially if you’re aiming for a competitive score. Prep courses typically offer comprehensive resources, including content review, practice exams, and personalized feedback. Options range from online self-paced courses to more intensive live classes. While the upfront cost may be significant, this investment often pays off by helping you avoid retakes
Opportunity Costs
Self-study usually takes longer. Those hours could otherwise be spent keeping your GPA strong, volunteering, or getting clinical experience – all factors that bolster your application.
The Cost of the MCAT in Relation to the Medical School Journey
While the MCAT is just one part of the larger financial picture of applying to medical school, it’s not exorbitant when you consider that it equates to less than 1% of the cost of medical school. With the high cost of applications, interviews, and eventual tuition, the MCAT fees are just the beginning of a long financial commitment?.
As an example, investing in a comprehensive prep course like Prep101’s MCAT course, which costs $2,695 CAD ($2395 USD), is still only about 1-2% of your total medical school journey cost. Given the crucial role the MCAT plays in your dream of becoming a doctor, this investment can be a smart way to ensure you get the score you need to be competitive.
Additional Expenses
Depending on where you live, you might need to factor in travel and accommodation costs to take the exam. Test centers can be few and far between, particularly in rural areas. You may have to budget for transportation, lodging, and meals—especially if your test date requires an overnight stay?.
Financing Your MCAT
The AAMC’s Fee Assistance Program is an essential resource for students who meet the eligibility criteria. In addition to reducing registration costs, it provides access to free preparation materials, helping to mitigate the financial burden. Beyond that, seeking out scholarships, low-cost study resources, and even flexible payment plans for prep courses can be valuable strategies?.
Total Estimated Costs
For those budgeting carefully, here’s a rough estimate of what your MCAT journey could cost:
- Registration Fees: $345
- International Fee (if applicable): $120
- Prep Materials (including courses): $500 – $5,000+
- Travel and Accommodation: $100 – $500
- Total: $935 – $5,955
As you can see, costs vary depending on your approach and circumstances?.
Tips to Save Money
To keep costs manageable, consider the following tips:
- Use Free Resources: The AAMC and other organizations offer free practice tests and study materials.
- Plan Ahead: Register early to avoid late fees and secure your preferred test date.
- Explore the Fee Assistance Program: If eligible, this can be a game-changer in reducing your costs.
- Consider Group Study or Sharing Resources: Split the cost of prep materials with peers or join a study group to access resources together.
- Set Up a Dedicated Savings Account: Automate small monthly deposits specifically for MCAT expenses. It’s a good life practice to estimate costs and start saving, so you’re prepared when expenses come up.
While the MCAT is a substantial financial investment, careful planning and smart resource use can help you manage the expenses and set yourself up for success.
