The Medical College Admission Test, MCAT, is arguably one of the most important steps in applying to medical school. While there are other important requirements for medical school applications, such as shadowing, demonstrating leadership, etc., the MCAT is perhaps the most difficult to prepare for and most daunting to take. The MCAT takes just under 8 hours to complete and tests applicant’s knowledge over different subjects including Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Sociology, and more. Most applicants study for the laborious exam for many months and many also may enroll in a professional MCAT preparation course. Once the exam has been completed, applicants should utilize their score to determine how competitive of an applicant they are and which schools they want to apply to. However, interpreting a MCAT score can be difficult. In this article, we discuss the MCAT sections, what is a good MCAT score, what MCAT score is needed for top medical schools, how important a high MCAT score is, how competitive certain MCAT score are and how the University of Medicine and Health Sciences, UMHS, treats MCAT scores differently.
Quick Navigation Links + FAQs
- What is the minimum MCAT score required at UMHS
- What is the MCAT score?
- What is a good MCAT score?
- Sections of MCAT?
- What score do you need for top universities?
- Does a high score by itself guarantee admission into med school?
- Can I get into a medical school with a 470 score?
- Can I get into medical school with a 490?
- Is 510 a high or low score?
- What are the lowest MCAT scores accepted?
- Getting started in medicine
What is the MCAT score?
The MCAT, Medical College Admission Test, is a standardized exam required for admission to medical school in the United States and Canada. It is designed to assess knowledge crucial for success in medical school. The MCAT consists of four sections: Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (BBLS), Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (CPBS), Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (PSBB), and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS). Each section is scored on a scale from 118 to 132, resulting in a total score range from 472 to 528, with 500 as the middle point. Preparing for the MCAT involves a thorough review of relevant content areas and practicing the types of questions encountered on the test. Numerous resources, including prep courses, textbooks, flashcards, and practice tests, are available to aid in your preparation. The MCAT score is a critical component of your medical school application and is considered alongside your GPA, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal statement. While a high MCAT score is important, some medical schools evaluate applications holistically to understand your overall potential as a future doctor. By understanding the structure and significance of the MCAT, one can better prepare and increase their chances of being admitted to medical school.
What's a Good MCAT Score?
A good MCAT score will vary depending on the competitiveness of the medical program one is applying to. However, generally, a score of 510 or above is considered competitive for many medical schools. Some medical schools first screen applicants based on a variety of parameters, one of which may be MCAT score. Programs may also list a minimum MCAT score or average score for accepted students. It is worthwhile to review this information prior to applying to schools.
In general for MD (Doctor of Medicine) programs, the average accepted MCAT score in the U.S. tends to be higher, typically around 511-512. Acceptance rates for MD programs are generally lower, often ranging from 3-10%, depending on the institution’s selectivity. For DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) programs, the average accepted MCAT score is slightly lower, usually around 503-507. DO schools tend to have higher acceptance rates compared to MD schools, generally ranging from 6-15%. These figures highlight the importance of a competitive MCAT score, particularly for MD programs, but also show that strong applicants to DO programs can succeed with slightly lower scores. Both pathways require rigorous preparation and a strong overall application.
What are the MCAT sections?
The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a standardized exam required for admission to most medical schools in the United States and Canada. The test is designed to assess an applicant’s readiness for medical school and includes four main sections:
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems: This section tests understanding of the chemical and physical principles that underlie the mechanisms operating in the human body. Topics include general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and physics. It also assesses one’s ability to apply these principles to biological systems.
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS): This section evaluates the ability to comprehend, analyze, and evaluate complex texts. It involves passages from the humanities and social sciences, but it does not require specific content knowledge. Instead, it assesses critical reading and analytical skills.
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems: This section examines knowledge of biological and biochemical concepts, including biology, biochemistry, and some organic chemistry. It focuses on processes that are unique to living organisms, such as growth, reproduction, and maintaining homeostasis.
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior: This section assesses understanding of the psychological, social, and biological factors that influence behavior and health. It covers topics from psychology and sociology, as well as related biological concepts. This section highlights the importance of social and behavioral sciences in medical practice.
Each section is scored individually on a scale from 118 to 132, with a median score of 125. The total MCAT score ranges from 472 to 528, with a median score of 500.
MCAT score ranges for top medical schools
For acceptance at top medical schools in the U.S., MCAT scores typically fall within a highly competitive range. Accepted students often have MCAT scores between 510 and 528, with median scores usually around 518 to 520. These high scores reflect the rigorous standards and competitiveness of top institutions. However, it’s important to remember that while a strong MCAT score is crucial, admissions committees also weigh other components of the application, including:
- High GPA
- Strong letters of recommendation
- Extracurricular activities
- Clinical and research experiences
- A compelling personal statement
Does a high MCAT performance alone determine acceptance into medical school?
No, a high MCAT performance is not the sole determinant of acceptance into med school. While a high MCAT score can be used as an initial screening metric to ensure applicants have the academic capability to handle the rigorous medical curriculum, most programs value a holistic approach in evaluating candidates.
Admissions committees consider various other factors alongside MCAT scores, such as
- Undergraduate GPA
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statements
- Extracurricular activities
- Volunteer work
- Leadership roles
- Research involvement
These additional criteria help schools identify well-rounded candidates who not only excel academically but also demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, a commitment to community service, ethical judgment, and resilience. Therefore, while a high MCAT score is a significant advantage, successful applicants are those who present a balanced and comprehensive application that showcases their strengths both inside and outside the classroom.
Is 470 a competitive MCAT Score?
A score of 470 on the MCAT is below the average scores for most medical school applicants. A score of 470 falls around the 2nd percentile, meaning that approximately 98% of test-takers scored higher.
Given that the median MCAT score for students accepted into most U.S. MD programs is around 511-512, a score of 470 would be below the competitive range. For DO programs, while the accepted scores are slightly lower, averaging around 503-507, a score of 470 would likely need to be improved to enhance the chances of acceptance.
UMHS offers a program called the Accelerated Review Program that is recommended for students with a low MCAT score, a low GPA, or just needs additional academic and study skills support. Check it out here: Need additional academic and study skills support
Can I get into med school with a 490 MCAT?
While a score of 490 on the MCAT is below the average for most medical school applicants, it is not impossible to gain acceptance into a medical program with this score.
That being said, medical school admissions committees consider the entire application, not just the MCAT score. As mentioned above, a strong GPA, outstanding letters of recommendation, exceptional personal statements, extensive clinical and volunteer experience, and notable research involvement can all help offset a lower MCAT score. Some schools may place a greater emphasis on holistic review processes, considering personal qualities, life experiences, and other achievements.
It’s also worth exploring other options such as post-baccalaureate programs or special master’s programs designed to strengthen academic records before reapplying, or retaking the MCAT after additional preparation to improve your score.
Is 510 a low, high or average MCAT score?
A score of 510 on the MCAT is generally considered a good score and is often within the competitive range for many medical schools. This score falls around the 78th percentile.
What are the lowest MCAT scores accepted at most medical schools?
The lowest MCAT scores accepted by medical schools can vary, but generally, MD programs accept scores starting around the lower 500s, with 500-503 being on the lower end. DO programs may accept scores in the high 480s to low 500s, given their slightly more lenient criteria. While these scores may be lower, medical schools use a holistic evaluation process, meaning applicants with strong GPAs, significant healthcare experience, exceptional recommendations, and compelling personal statements can still be competitive. Special programs, like post-baccalaureate programs, might also accept lower scores under certain conditions. Applicants with lower scores should consider retaking the MCAT or exploring schools that emphasize a holistic review process. Please check out the Accelerated Review Program from UMHS as another alternative.
For admission into UMHS medical school, what is the minimum MCAT scores required?
UMHS requires all U.S. citizens and permanent residents to take the MCAT. While not required for non U.S. citizens, it is still recommended for all applicants, including those from Canada. However, there is no minimum MCAT score for admission to UMHS. Applicants are reviewed in a holistic manner, with all aspects of the application being reviewed in equal weight. The Accelerated Review Program is available for those with lower GPA or MCAT scores. Find out if you qualify!
Getting started in medicine.
Now that you know more about MCAT scoring and UMHS's policy, you may want to find out more about UMHS by reading our Caribbean Medical School FAQ page. If you would like to reach out to our admissions office, please check them out here: Admission
Click here to start an application to UMHS
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Callie Torres is a resident physician working at a top tier institute in the Midwest. She is a freelance health and medical writer as well as an author of many peer reviewed medical articles. She additionally serves as a Captain in the United States Air Force.
