How Long Is The MCAT? - A Comprehensive Guide
Nobody likes a day full of anxiety, worries and tensions as like MCAT test day. It’s considered as the hardest day for test takers due to its lengthy time and tough MCQs. But amidst the pressure, a calm mind is your strongest ally. You need to relax on this day. Among these elements, the MCAT's duration holds significant importance, as it can make or break one's chances of success on test day.
But the question is how long is the MCAT test? The MCAT test consists of 7 hours and 30 minutes with breaks and approximately it reaches 8 hours due to check-ins, seating and others. Let's explore how the MCAT test day is structured!.
What Is Tested On The MCAT?
The MCAT test assesses your comprehension of physics, psychology, sociology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, general biology, and biochemistry as well as your ability to reason critically. It means that it demands more than just a comprehension of previously completed materials. It’s the test of critical reasoning abilities that focus on the importance of applying exam material. A good MCAT score depends on your ability to understand and solve the toughest questions or problems.
How Is the MCAT Test Structured?
The MCAT test follows a well structured format to assess candidates’ aptitude for medical schools. It’s a computer based test and consists of 4 sections. Each section has its own score and MCQs criteria, and also consist of different subjects. Here’s the in-depth structure of MCAT test:
How Long Is Each MCAT Section?
MCAT test day is a long and toughest day for test takers. Each MCAT consists of 4 sections and each section has its own specific time to complete it. But before these four sections, an examination agreement is taken which takes 8 minutes, and a tutorial which takes (10 minutes). Each section takes, For instance:
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys): It has a total of 95 minute sections with breaks of 10 minutes (optional).
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS): It contains a 90 minute section and has a mid-section break of 30 minutes.
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/BioChem): It’s a 95 minute total section and contains a 10 minute break (optional).
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc): This section is also a 95 minute section and contains a break of 10 minutes.
Additionally, it contains a void question and a satisfaction survey (optional) of 5 minutes both. Its total content time is 6 hours and 15 minutes but its overall or seated time is 7 hours and 30 minutes. If you don’t want to take any break, it’s up to you but you have to be mentally and physically strong for this day.
How Many Questions Are On The MCAT?
The MCAT consists of a total of 230 questions, some of which are based on passages and some of which are discrete. CARS contains 53 questions, compared to 59 questions for CPBS, 59 questions for BBLS, and 59 questions for PSBB sections.
That’s the overall MCAT test day timeline and everyone adheres to this timeline.
What Are The Test-Day Essentials?
There are certain things you needed or you must have on your MCAT test day such as:
MCAT accepted ID
Water
Healthy snacks (eat only in break times)
Light lunch (eat only in break times)
Any medication you require (for being active all the day)
Avoid accessories like watch, jewelry, bags and other things
What Are The MCAT Time Management Strategies?
The MCAT doesn't penalize wrong answers, so strategic time management is crucial for improving your score. If a question is challenging, flag it, and return to it later after answering easier ones.
Practice exams are essential for preparation, simulating the test's length and difficulty. Reproduce test conditions, considering your peak performance time. Stay disciplined during practice tests, avoiding food at the testing station. Learn your energy needs and plan accordingly for the actual MCAT.
Bathroom breaks are allowed during the MCAT, but time keeps ticking, so use them wisely. Follow the same rule during practice tests, utilizing breaks between sections whenever possible.
How to Maximize Your MCAT Test Time?
It might seem like you have enough time to finish the MCAT, which is seven hours and 30 minutes. However, when you’re in the exam center, tension and anxiety build up, and it seems like this time is not enough to complete the exam.
However, you can use these tips to lessen your anxiety and give your 100% to achieve success. This include:
Practice In A Test-Like Setting
To enhance your MCAT preparation, mimic genuine testing settings, including following section time constraints. Start the practice exam at the same time as the real test to maximize test preparation. During practice, follow the break times. This method will help you manage time and stamina and imitate test situations. This practice takes time, but it will help you see what's ahead and learn how to manage your development.
Take Advantages Of Brakes
You may be eager to finish the exam as soon as possible. But that’s not a good factor to consider. The breakers are for a reason, although they are optional, but it’s best practice to take a break, drink water, eat snacks, and walk a little bit. This enhances your working capability.
Reach At Test Center Early
On your exam day, you must reach 30 minutes prior to your exam start timing. By doing this, you will be relaxed from all checking and seating hurdles.
Prepare All Your Stuff The Night Before
The night before your exam (what essentials are required of you or announced by AAMC on your exam day) , get everything, so that you will not be worried due to essentials or don't be late.
FAQs
Q1: How Long Does it Take to Study for the MCAT?
Ans: The duration of MCAT study varies, but most students dedicate around 3-6 months for thorough preparation.
Q2: When Should You Begin Studying for the MCAT?
Ans: It's recommended to start studying for the MCAT at least 3-6 months before the test date for ample preparation.
Q3: What Time Does the MCAT Start?
Ans: The specific start time of the MCAT can vary depending on the testing center and location.
Q4: How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT?
Ans: You can take the MCAT up to 3 times in a single testing year and up to 7 times over your lifetime.
Q5: How Long is the MCAT Valid for the USA?
Ans: The MCAT scores are typically valid for three years in the USA for medical school applications.
Q6: Is There an Age Limit for MCAT in the USA?
Ans: There is no age limit for taking the MCAT in the USA; individuals of all ages can register for the exam.
Wrap It Up
Now you know how long the MCAT is? If you’re committed to pursue your career in medicine, it’s necessary to start your prep now as the MCAT exam is very hard. Never let anything be a roadblock to your journey to achieve success, everything is achievable take specific time, build your thoughts, and you’re all set to achieve your goals.
