MCAT format and scoring: four sections, 472 to 528

The MCAT has four timed sections and 230 questions, takes about seven and a half hours including breaks, and is scored from 472 to 528 with a median of 500. Each section is scored from 118 to 132.

Last checked October 2026. Based on test-prep and university guides summarizing AAMC’s published format. One source says AAMC is working on shortening and modernizing the exam, but gives no details, so check AAMC for any announced change.

The four sections

• Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems.
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS). Needs no prior science knowledge, according to guides.
• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems.
• Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior.

Scoring

Your total score adds the four section scores, giving the 472 to 528 range. A guide notes the scoring is not a curve against other test takers on your day. AAMC says scores are usually released 30 to 35 days after the exam. A guide cites a good-score tiering for competitive schools in the high 510s and above, but what counts as good depends on the schools you target and their published ranges.

Common questions