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How to Register for the 2025 MCAT: Everything You Need to Know

Jay Doshi

Introduction:

Registering for the MCAT is a critical first step on your path to medical school. To make sure you're prepared, it's important to know key registration dates, fees, and the step-by-step process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for the 2025 MCAT registration, from scheduling your exam to avoiding common pitfalls.

1. Key 2025 MCAT Registration Dates

The registration for the January to June 2025 MCAT test dates opens on October 2, 2024, at 11 a.m. ET. Be sure to fill out the first five tabs in the MCAT registration system before this date.

Here’s a quick look at the registration deadlines:

  • Gold Zone Deadline: 60 days before your test date for the lowest fees.

  • Silver Zone Deadline: 30 days before your test date.

  • Bronze Zone Deadline: 10 days before your test date (higher fees).

Remember, the MCAT registration system closes for annual maintenance from October 1 at 8 a.m. ET to October 2 at 11 a.m. ET.



2. Step-by-Step Registration Process


Here’s how to register for the 2025 MCAT:

  1. Log in to your AAMC Account: If you don’t have an account, create one at AAMC’s official site.

  2. Complete the Required Tabs: Fill out the first five tabs in the registration system before opening day.

  3. On Registration Day: You’ll be directed to the waiting room, where you can view how many people are ahead of you in the queue.

  4. Select Your Test Date and Location: Choose a date and test center close to you, as seats fill up quickly.

  5. Pay the Registration Fee: Ensure your payment is ready. If you qualify for the Fee Assistance Program, submit your application at least five days before registration opens.

  6. Confirmation: Once your registration is complete, keep your confirmation email for future reference.

3. MCAT Fees and Financial Assistance

Here are the fees for 2025:

  • Standard Registration: $345

  • Registration w/ FAP: $145

  • Late Registration: An additional $50-$100 for registrations within a month of the exam.

The AAMC Fee Assistance Program can help reduce the cost of registration and offers additional benefits, including access to free prep materials. Make sure to apply for this program well in advance of registration.

4. How to Choose Your MCAT Test Date and Location

Choosing the right test date is key to a stress-free MCAT experience:

  • Align with Medical School Timelines: Ideally, take the MCAT early enough to leave room for retakes if necessary.

  • Prepare for the Test: Ensure you have at least 3-6 months to study before your chosen test date.

  • Location: Choose a test center that’s easy to get to. Popular locations and Saturday-dates fill up fast, especially on the East Coast where demand is high. So register early!

5. Common Registration Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Avoid these common issues during registration:

  • Missing the Registration Deadline: Plan ahead to avoid missing the deadline, especially for your preferred test date and location.

  • Overlooking Accommodations: If you need testing accommodations, be sure to apply early and follow up with AAMC if needed.

  • Accepted ID: Make sure you sign-up for the MCAT using the same exact ID you anticipate to bring with you on the day of your exam to ensure all infomation matches. This ID should be valid according to AAMC policies.

  • Not Preparing for the Waiting Room: Logging in early doesn’t give you an advantage—make sure to enter the registration system just before 10:50 a.m. ET on October 2 to secure a early space in line.

6. What Happens After You Register?

Once you’ve completed registration:

  • Confirmation Email: Keep your confirmation email safe, and review it to ensure all information is correct.

  • Start Preparing: Now that you know your test date, focus on a study plan, practice tests, and improving your weak areas.


Conclusion:

The 2025 MCAT registration process is straightforward if you stay organized and informed. Mark your calendar for October 2, 2024, and be ready to log in at the right time. Good luck on your MCAT journey, and don’t forget that tools like King of the Curve can help you ace your preparation!

For more details on the 2025 MCAT registration process, visit the AAMC website.