The MCAT is still the clearest rite of passage for aspiring physicians to get admission to medical schools. It is a test that allows for a comparison among candidates by fair and transparent methods of assessment of your knowledge in natural, behavioral, and social science concepts and critical analysis and reasoning skills.
The actual confusion, however, is what makes for a ‘good’ MCAT score. There is no magic number because a good score is relative, depending on personal goals and the competitiveness of the medical schools applied to.
Ready to decode the MCAT? We’ll take a deep dive into the scoring system and analyze the average scores of successful applicants. This knowledge will equip you to strategically approach your MCAT prep and understand how your score factors into your application journey.
The MCAT Scoring System
The MCAT scores are scaled between 472 and 528, each of these four sections contributing to the total score: Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems, Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills, Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior. Each section scores from 118 to 132; your total score will be the sum of these four section scores.
In addition to the scaled score, you will have a percentile rank that reflects how your performance compares with that of other test-takers. The 80th percentile is higher than 80% of test-takers. You’ll want to be familiar with percentiles since admission committees often evaluate applicants by percentiles.
To help pre-med students applying for medical schools prepare, they can predict their scores using an MCAT score prediction tool. This calculator can convert your raw results into a scaled score which helps predict how you can perform in the MCAT exams. It can also help you measure progress and identify strengths and weaknesses.
Average MCAT Scores for Accepted Medical Students
The average MCAT score considered by various admissions committees at different medical schools varies. The top tier typically has higher average scores, upwards of 515. Less competitive schools might go as low as 500. Knowing the exact or approximate MCAT averages of your goal schools can help you set a realistic goal.
The path you choose, Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), can also influence the MCAT score landscape. DO programs tend to have slightly lower average MCAT scores compared to MD programs. For example, during the 2023-2024 admission cycle, the national average for incoming DO students was 504, while for MD students, it was 512.
Factors Beyond the MCAT Score
While the MCAT score is undoubtedly important, it’s not the sole determinant of your medical school acceptance. Medical schools use a holistic review process, considering various factors, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and interview performance.
Your GPA is a crucial indicator of your academic capability and consistency throughout college. It’s generally expected that applicants have a strong GPA, ideally above 3.5. Undertaking extracurricular activities such as internship programs and volunteering can also demonstrate your commitment and help you prepare for college.
Setting Realistic MCAT Goals
Look up the average MCAT scores for the schools you’re looking at and assess your strengths and weaknesses. Then, based on the target school and academic profile, you need to set a realistic goal.
If your target schools have higher averages, then you will want to strive for a score above the average to be competitive. Don’t be discouraged if you are not hitting your target score on your diagnostic or first few practice tests. While statistics show a very low acceptance rate for applicants with scores below 486 (around 4.3% for the 2021-22 to 2023-24 cycle), even for those with strong GPAs, this shouldn’t be a source of discouragement.
Remember, MCAT requires some time and work to prepare for, and it’s possible to improve with proper studying. The MCAT also allows for retakes, so view it as an opportunity for growth. Analyze your practice test performance to identify weaker areas. Then, use this information to refine your study approach and return even stronger on your next attempt.
Strategies for MCAT Preparation
MCAT prep requires a customized approach based on your learning style and any constraints you may be under. Different methods to study for it work best depending on your needs, such as:
Prep Classes
Commercial test-prep classes employ structured study plans that allow you to review comprehensive material, go through practice tests, and study under the guidance of instructors. While they can be very expensive, they offer a nice learning environment.
Persistence
The MCAT is tough, and some people may need to take it more than once. According to a survey of over 15,000 matriculating first-year medical students, about 30% responded that they took the MCAT two or more times before gaining entry into a program. So, don’t be too shocked, and, therefore, plan in case things do not turn out as expected the first time you take the exam.
For most students aiming to get good MCAT scores, it is basically finding one’s own way of studying through quality materials applied consistently and having persistence all along the process of studying.
Final Thoughts
A ‘good’ MCAT score is not a fixed number but rather a score that aligns with your individual aspirations and target schools. And remember, it’s just one piece of the puzzle; a well-rounded application that showcases your academic achievements, experiences, and passion for medicine will ultimately open doors to your dream career.
