The transition to a computer format has somewhat simplified the process of registering for the Medical College Admissions Test. Students can now register for the exam on-line, beginning six months before the testing date. The Association of American Medical Colleges has also made it easier to change a testing date on-line. For the most part, though, registering for the Medical College Admissions Test is the same as it ever was.
Students typically take the exam during the same year in which they are applying to medical schools. In the event that a candidate wishes to delay his or her applications, however, many medical schools will accept MCAT scores that are two or three years old. Students are now allowed to take the MCAT three times in a calendar year, although they are only allowed to register for one testing date at a time. Students are charged with determining which testing dates will enable them to receive scores in time to meet their application deadlines; the test administrators take no responsibility for making sure that the appropriate test date is chosen. Regular registration ends 14 days before the testing date; during the next week, students may register for a slightly higher price.
Registering for the MCAT must be done with a major credit card. At present, the standard fee for registration is $210, with a $50 surcharge for late registration. Students who register and then decide to cancel a testing date are eligible to receive half of their money back if they cancel at least a week before the testing date. As with all other aspects of the registration process, test cancellation is performed on-line.
MCAT Preparation information provided by Morrison Media LLC, publisher of the MCAT Secrets Study Guide and MCAT Flashcard Secrets.
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