How to Check Your MCAT Score: A Step-by-Step Guide

Remember the butterflies on test day? The weeks of anticipation? Now, the moment of truth is here—how did you really do? In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to check your MCAT scores, understand what they mean, and glimpse what’s next on your medical school journey.

When will my score be released?

MCAT scores are typically released 30-35 days after the test date. 

According to the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges), scores are released by 5 PM Eastern Time on the scheduled release date. 

Required Information

To check your MCAT score, you will need the following:

• AAMC Account Details: Ensure you have your login information ready. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password” link on the AAMC login page to reset it.
• MCAT Registration Number: This number is provided when you register for the test. If you can’t find it, you can retrieve it from your AAMC account under your test registration details.

Logging into Your AAMC Account

1. Visit the AAMC Website: Go to the official AAMC website.
2. Click on the Sign In button, located at the top right corner of the homepage.
3. Enter Your Credentials: Input your username and password. If you have forgotten your password, use the ‘Forgot Password’ link to reset it.
4. Security Check: Complete any security checks if prompted.

Navigating to the Score Reporting Section

1. Dashboard Overview: Once logged in, you will be directed to your dashboard.
2. Locate the “Get Your Test Scores” Button: This button is prominently displayed on your dashboard.
3. Click on the Button: This will redirect you to the page where your scores are posted.

Viewing and Understanding Your Score Report

1. View Your Scores: Your MCAT scores will be displayed on this page.
2. Understanding the Components:
   • Scaled Scores: Each of the four sections of the MCAT is scored from 118 to 132, with a median score of approximately 125, and a total MCAT score range from 472 to 528.
   • Percentile Ranks: This indicates how your score compares to other test-takers.
   • Confidence Intervals: These provide a range that indicates where your “true score” likely lies if you were to take the MCAT over and over again with the same level of preparation.

For more detailed information, refer to our article Understanding the Components of Your MCAT Score Report.

Interpreting Your Scores

• Good Score Benchmarks: If your medical school(s) of choice consider the MCAT competitively aim for a couple points above the average of accepted students. Generally, a score of
  • 510+ is competitive for MD programs
  • 506+ is competitive for DO programs in the US.
• If your  medical school(s) of choice don’t consider MCAT scores competitively (i.e., they only use cutoffs), then your score only needs to clear the cutoffs!
• Section-Wise Breakdown: Ensure that your section scores also clear any cutoffs – and, hopefully, averages, if applicable. 
• Percentile Ranks: This helps you compare your performance with other test-takers.
• The AAMC’s MSAR database provides data on average MCAT scores, GPAs, and more for accepted students at various medical schools, aiding in your self-assessment.

For more detailed information, refer to our article What is a Good MCAT Score?

Deciding on the Next Steps

• Score Meets Target: If your MCAT score is competitive at your target schools, proceed with your medical school applications. Celebrate this amazing achievement!
• Options for Retaking the MCAT: If your score is lower than required for your medical schools of choice, consider retaking it. Reflect on whether you have the time and resources to prepare for another attempt, and if it’s worth the effort based on your target schools.

Additional Reading: Should I retake the MCAT?

Using MCAT Your Score Report for Application Planning

• Aligning Scores with School Requirements: Use your scores to determine which schools to apply to. Highlight your strengths in your application and develop strategies to address any weaknesses.
• Highlighting Strengths: Emphasize your highest-scoring sections in your application essays and interviews.
• Addressing Weaknesses: If a particular section score is low, consider how you can mitigate this in other parts of your application, such as with strong letters of recommendation or a compelling personal statement.

How Long Are MCAT Scores Valid?

According to the AAMC: forever. But medical schools vary in their views. The short answer is that they typically consider MCAT scores to be valid for two to three years, but it largely depends on which medical school you’re applying to. It’s important to familiarize yourself with each school’s admission requirements, just in case life doesn’t go as planned.

Checking your MCAT score is a straightforward process that can be efficiently managed with proper preparation. Understanding the timeline, having your necessary details ready, and knowing how to interpret your scores are all crucial steps in this process. Use your score report to strategically plan your next steps, whether it’s celebrating your achievement or preparing for a retake.

And remember, your MCAT score is an important indicator of your readiness for medical school, but it’s not the only factor. A holistic approach to your application, including strong letters of recommendation, a compelling personal statement, and a well-rounded portfolio of experiences, will also play a significant role in your success. Good luck on your journey to medical school!