What's on the MCAT
Admissions officers use the MCAT as a predictor of your success in medical school. The exam is designed to test the skills you’ll use when you get there, including basic science, verbal reasoning, and writing ability. The MCAT is a 5 ½ hour, computer-based test that has the reputation of being one of the most challenging standardized tests.
| MCAT Sections | Description of the MCAT Sections |
| Physical Sciences | |
| Verbal Reasoning | - 40 multiple-choice questions
- 60 minute section
- Similar to reading comprehension sections on other standardized tests, such as the SAT or the ACT
- More MCAT Verbal Reasoning Info
|
| Writing | - 2 essay questions
- 60 minute section
- Tests the ability to formulate and communicate an argument and convey complex ideas
- More MCAT Writing Info
|
| Biological Sciences | |
| How Does the Test Look? | | Section: | Time: | Optional Tutorial | 5 minutes | Physical Sciences | 70 minutes | Optional Break | 10 minutes | Verbal Reasoning | 60 minutes | Optional Break | 10 minutes | Writing Sample | 60 minutes | Optional Break | 10 minutes | Biological Sciences | 70 minutes | Survey | 5 minutes | TOTAL TIME | 5 hours, 30 minutes |
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| Practice | Take a free MCAT practice test. |
| Live Help | Attend a free Strategy Session, learn more about the MCAT and meet one of our MCAT instructors. |
