While the highest MCAT score possible is 528, the Princeton Review defines a good MCAT score as just above 510 for all four sections with a percentile of just above 80th. The MCAT total score ranges from 472 to 528, with a midpoint of 500, and a score of 500 equals the 50th percentile. Each of the four MCAT sections is scored from 118 to 132, with a midpoint of 125. A score of 508 is acceptable by most medical schools. A score of 516 is necessary to get into the Ivy League. 68% of students are within one standard deviation of 500, with only 16.1% of students placing higher.
Understanding what constitutes a good MCAT score depends on your target programs. The MCAT’s difficulty ensures that only the most competent and diligent students become public health pioneers.
The MCAT Sections
The MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) gives test takers five scores: one for each of the four sections and one combined total score. Each section’s section scores run 118-132 while the total score ranges from 472 to 528.
| MCAT Section | Questions | Score Range |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems | 59 | 118-132 |
| Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems | 59 | 118-132 |
| Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior | 59 | 118-132 |
| Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) | 53 | 118-132 |
| Total | 230 | 472-528 |
The three science sections each contain 59 multiple-choice questions presented in 95-minute passage-based formats. The CARS section is slightly shorter, with 53 multiple-choice questions and a 90-minute time limit.
Ultimately, achieving a good score on the MCAT depends on more than an empirical knowledge of the scientific subject matter. Thorough study with MCAT preparation books is essential.
Every year, the exam has new questions while existing questions are altered or removed. Changing questions ensure that the exam follows the most current and cutting-edge medical curricula. It’s important to pace yourself appropriately to complete all four sections.