It is not unusual to retake the MCAT. Data from the AAMC shows that between 2019 and 2021, 38 percent of test-takers were “repeaters,” who had taken the test at least once before. And “repeaters” tended to achieve score improvements.
--Those with an initial score between 472 and 517 saw a median score increase between two to four points.
--Those with an initial score between 518 and 528 saw a median score increase of one point.
The analysis also found that the longer the period between your first and second exam, the bigger the point gain. Many factors likely play into this, one of them being as simple as completing helpful college or postgraduate coursework.
How many times can I take the MCAT?
You can take the MCAT up to three times in one calendar year and four times across two calendar years. There is a lifetime cap of seven times. We recommend taking the MCAT a maximum of three times—really, you should aim for two. Medical schools prefer it.
How do schools use updated MCAT scores? Will they use my best score?
Different schools use different strategies for multiple score submissions. In an AAMC admissions officer survey (2017), representatives mentioned the following methods:
Review all submitted scores in conjunction with respondent’s explanation of the score change
Use only the highest score
Average all of the submitted scores
Use only the most recent score
If you are considering retaking the test in order to target a particular school, we recommend that you contact the admissions office first to ask how they will use the updated MCAT score. This is because achieving a particular score can be more challenging if a school averages the submitted scores, rather than using either the best or most recent exam result.
What do I need to consider as I think about retaking the MCAT?
--First and foremost: is it necessary to retake the test?
Review the average MCAT scores for the schools that you are interested in. Are you within the average range of scores at your desired schools? Would you consider adding schools to your list that do match your performance?
If you fall below the average for your target schools and you do not want to reconsider your school list, you will likely need to retake the test. MCAT scores are often used as a preliminary filter for secondary applications.
--How are the other components of your application?
A low or borderline GPA creates a stronger case for retaking the MCAT. You want to be sure that your application demonstrates your ability to thrive in a rigorous academic environment, so if both scores are on the low end, you should consider how to bolster at least one of them by retaking the exam or taking additional classes.
--Is it clear why you didn’t achieve the score you had expected and/or do you understand how to improve your test prep process?
Is your score much lower than your practice exams? Did you have a stressful situation or an illness that impacted your performance? Is there good reason to believe that with some changes in your preparation, such as hiring a tutor, you will do better on the test? If you only achieved a point or two below your typical practice exams, do you have a plan to reinvigorate your efforts? If you do retake the exam, you’ll want to improve your score. So, consider carefully if you have a clear path to do so.
--Do you have the time to retake the test?
If you retake the test, you’ll want to commit to a study plan that will ensure you improve your initial score. Doing so will take time away from other endeavors including extracurricular activities, research, and clinical experiences. Consider your overall application and where you are most likely to benefit by spending time.
We encourage you to make the decision that will best help you to meet your goals. You will need to achieve an MCAT score high enough to keep you in the running for the schools that you’re interested in. But you’ll want to balance that with gaining other meaningful experiences that will also prepare you for medical school. Admissions committees review applications holistically because they’re looking for great candidates, not perfect ones.