Registering for the MCAT Exam in 2023 [What You Need to Know]

When you register for the MCAT, it’s important that you’ve already made up your mind to take the exam. The test is expensive and if you decide to switch to different MCAT test dates or test centers, you’ll have to make additional fees. 

If you’re set to take the admissions test, start the registration process. 

How to Register for MCAT 

For the MCAT registration process, we’ll take you through what you need to do step by step.

First, here’s a guide of the MCAT test dates to help you decide when to register for MCAT this 2020. 

MCAT Test Dates 2020

MCAT Test Dates

Period to Register for MCAT

May 29, 2020 (Friday)

January to March

June 5, 2020 (Friday)

February to April

June 19, 2020 (Friday)

February to April

June 20, 2020 (Saturday)

February to April

June 27, 2020 (Saturday)

February to April

June 28, 2020 (Sunday)

February to April

July 7, 2020 (Tuesday)

March to May

July 18, 2020 (Saturday)

March to May

July 23, 2020 (Thursday)

March to May

July 31, 2020 (Friday)

March to May

August 1, 2020 (Saturday)

April to June

August 7, 2020 (Friday)

April to June

August 8, 2020 (Saturday)

April to June

August 14, 2020 (Friday)

April to June

August 29, 2020 (Saturday)

April to June

September 3, 2020 (Thursday)

May to July

September 4, 2020 (Friday)

April to June

September 11, 2020 (Friday)

April to June

September 12, 2020 (Sunday)                        

April to June

September 27, 2020 (Monday)

April to June

September 28, 2020 (Monday)

April to June

Of course, these MCAT dates 2020 also have a strict deadline that you need to adhere to. 

To give you a better glimpse of what these deadlines are, we’ve simplified it for you here:

MCAT 2020 Dates Deadline Guide 

Once you’ve selected your ideal schedule from the list of MCAT exam dates, you need to submit your MCAT registration by 11:59 PM on the day of the deadline. 

Below are three deadlines that serve as a guide for MCAT registration dates: 

  • Bronze – Submit your application 1 week before the scheduled MCAT test date. 

This is the final date to cancel your reservation and edit any changes to your registration information like name, address, and contact information. 

  • Silver – Submit your application 15 days before the scheduled MCAT test date. 

This is the final date for initial registration and if you want to reschedule your test date.

  • Gold – Submit your application 1 month before the scheduled MCAT test date. 

This is the final date to receive a partial refund if you cancel taking the exam. This will also be the final date if you want to reschedule at a lower rate. 

Understanding the MCAT Deadlines

From the list of MCAT dates, if you decide to take the MCAT on June 27, you have a window open for registration between February to April. 

For the bronze deadline, 1 week before would mean submitting your application on June 19. It also means that June 19 is the final date to cancel your reservation and make any changes. 

For the silver deadline, 15 days before would mean June 12. Similarly, for the gold deadline, 1 month before would mean May 29. 

This follows for all respective MCAT dates listed in the table above. 

MCAT Register: How to Complete Your MCAT Registration in 7 Steps

  1. The first step is to make sure the AAMC MCAT registration is open, to begin with. If you decide to register in July or August, registration opens in February. 
  2. Create an AAMC account. This is a simple setup process. Just create a username and password. AAMC will then issue your ID number. 

  3. MCAT sign up. Log into your profile and select the button “Start Exam Registration.” 

  4. Fill out any required information. Complete your background and registration information. Make sure the details you provide are the same in the valid ID that you will use to present during the exam. Here’s a guide on what is considered a valid ID for MCAT (1)

  5. Schedule your exam. After completing your AAMC register for MCAT and filling out all information required, head over to the Schedule page. Select the button “Schedule an MCAT exam.” 

  6. Register for the MCAT. When registration day opens, select the test date, state, and MCAT test locations. Take note of the testing calendars for US territories and international MCAT (2) if you register outside the US. Remember, registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Have a credit card handy so you can pay after you’ve completed this step. 

  7. Check your email. You’ll receive a confirmation email from AAMC within 24 hours after registration. 

MCAT Fees and Rescheduling

For a detailed outline of the fees and rescheduling fees, you can refer to the image below supplied by AAMC:

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Yes, you can change your MCAT test date 15 days prior to your scheduled exam date. If you want to cancel your reservation, you can do so as well 1 month prior to your exam date and will get a partial refund of $160.

The best time to take the MCAT is at least 3 to 5 months prior to your scheduled exam date. If you plan to take the exam in July or August, for example, the best time to prep and study for the MCAT is February or March.

Before you go…

Before your MCAT sign up or registration process, take a diagnostic test to assess your current ability. 

This should help you plan strategically how long you’ll need to study and what resources you will need along the way.

Have a clear plan first before you register for the exam. A good prep MCAT schedule is key to your pace and success in the admissions test. 

References

  1. https://students-residents.aamc.org/applying-medical-school/article/valid-identification-mcat-examinees/
  2. https://students-residents.aamc.org/applying-medical-school/article/2015-international-mcat-testing-calendar/