Can You Retake the MCAT? When, How Often, and What to Consider
For many pre-med students, retaking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a strategic step toward earning a higher MCAT score and strengthening their medical school application. Whether your first attempt didn’t meet expectations or you’re aiming for more competitive MD programs, a second or even third attempt is common, and often necessary.
But the decision to retake the MCAT comes with questions: How often can you take it? Do admissions committees see all your test scores? Will a recent score outweigh a lower score from an earlier attempt? In this guide, we’ll explore how medical schools evaluate multiple MCAT scores, how to approach your next test with a plan for score improvement, and which tools, like practice exams, prep courses, and advice from a pre-health advisor, can help you succeed. If you're navigating whether retaking the MCAT is right for you, this article will help you make a confident, informed decision.
I. Why Retake the MCAT?
Retaking the MCAT exam is a decision many pre-med students face, especially those whose initial score doesn’t align with the expectations of their target schools. While the exam is just one part of your medical school application, your MCAT score often serves as a first filter for admissions officers evaluating academic readiness.
A lower score can put you below the average MCAT score for competitive MD programs, even if other parts of your application, like your GPA or personal statement, are strong. In contrast, a higher MCAT score may help you stand out, particularly if you're aiming for top-tier schools or trying to balance out a lower GPA. Good MCAT scores demonstrate not just knowledge, but the stamina, reasoning, and focus essential for success in medical school.
Some students also choose to retake the test to improve performance in specific sections, such as Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS). This section is notoriously difficult to master, and many students improve only after targeted MCAT prep, including practice tests, practice questions, and in some cases, a formal prep course. Ultimately, retaking the Medical College Admission Test can be a valuable opportunity, not just to boost your test scores, but to show growth, resilience, and readiness to meet the demands of med school.
II. How Often Can You Retake the MCAT?
The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) sets clear limits on how many times you can take the MCAT. Understanding these rules is essential for pre-med students considering retaking the MCAT, especially when planning a long-term medical school admissions strategy.
You’re allowed to take the MCAT exam:
- Up to three times per calendar year
- Up to four times over a two-year period
- A maximum of seven times total in your lifetime
Each attempt is recorded, and all MCAT scores, whether from your first attempt or your most recent score, are visible to admissions committees. This means every test counts, not just your highest score. Some medical schools emphasize your most recent score, others consider your average score, and a few take a holistic view, weighing multiple MCAT scores as a trend of growth or consistency.
Because of these limits, it’s crucial to plan each test date strategically. Speak with a pre-health advisor before scheduling a retake, especially if you're unsure whether you're ready. Jumping in too soon without proper MCAT prep or enough practice exams could lead to another lower score, which might hurt more than help.
III. What Is the Best Time to Retake the MCAT?
Timing your MCAT retake strategically can make a significant difference in your medical school application. While the AAMC allows up to three attempts per year, the best time to retake the MCAT depends on your readiness, application timeline, and how your current MCAT score compares to the expectations of your target schools.
If your first attempt was taken late in the cycle, retaking too soon may result in a rushed approach with limited MCAT prep. On the other hand, waiting too long could delay your medical school admissions or limit your ability to apply early, something many admissions committees value. Ideally, aim to retake the test no later than May or June of your application year so that your recent score is ready in time for the AMCAS or TMDSAS submissions.
Before scheduling a retake, assess your performance with full-length practice tests. If your practice exam scores consistently show a higher MCAT score than your official one, it may be a sign that you're ready. Focus on weak sections, like Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills, and reinforce them with focused practice questions or a structured prep course.
IV. Do Medical Schools See All Your MCAT Scores?
Yes, medical schools see all of your MCAT scores. Every official MCAT exam attempt, including your initial score, recent score, and test dates, is reported when you apply through services like AMCAS. This means that retaking the MCAT doesn’t erase earlier scores; instead, it adds to your record. How admissions committees interpret multiple MCAT scores can vary. Some focus on your highest score, especially if it shows strong MCAT performance or significant score improvement. Others may consider the average score or look for trends, like progress from a lower score to a stronger one over time.
While a weak first attempt won’t necessarily ruin your chances, a pattern of low scores or frequent MCAT attempts without improvement may raise concerns for some MD programs. That’s why it’s essential to only retake the test when your practice exams indicate clear readiness for a better outcome. In short, while medical schools care about your entire testing history, they also value growth. If you approach retaking the MCAT with focused MCAT prep, strategic timing, and realistic expectations, it can strengthen your candidacy across many medical school admissions offices.
V. How to Decide If You Should Retake the MCAT
Deciding on retaking the MCAT depends on how your initial score aligns with your target schools’ requirements and overall medical school applications. If your score is below the average MCAT score for the MD programs you’re aiming for, a second attempt can demonstrate commitment and potential for score improvement.
Before you retake the MCAT, review your preparation. Did you complete enough practice tests and practice questions to identify weaknesses? Were there external factors, like nerves or poor timing, that affected your MCAT performance? If so, additional MCAT prep or a structured prep course may help you reach a higher MCAT score. You should also consider how admissions committees view multiple MCAT scores. While many schools focus on the most recent score, some may average them, making an unprepared retake risky. Consulting a pre-health advisor can provide clarity on whether your current score is competitive enough for med school or if retaking could give you an advantage.
VI. What to Do Differently When Retaking
If you’re preparing to retake the MCAT, your strategy needs to change. Repeating the same MCAT prep routine likely won’t lead to meaningful score improvement. Instead, assess what went wrong, whether it was time management, weak content areas, or a low CARS score, and adjust accordingly.
Start by analyzing your initial score and your past practice tests. Identify your weakest sections, then use targeted practice questions to rebuild confidence. If Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) was a struggle, BoosterPrep offers valuable resources, including the How to Improve Your CARS Score on the MCAT guide and their Proven MCAT CARS Strategy to Boost Your Score.
For many pre-med students, a new prep course or structured study plan makes a significant difference. Look for one that emphasizes full-length practice exams and detailed feedback. Most importantly, don’t rush back into the MCAT exam. Retake it only when your practice test scores consistently reflect a higher MCAT score, one aligned with your target schools and competitive for medical school admissions.
VII. How Soon Can You Retake the MCAT After Your First Attempt?
If you're unhappy with your initial score, you may be eager to retake the MCAT, but it’s important to understand the timing rules. The AAMC, which administers the Medical College Admission Test, allows you to take the MCAT exam again after just 24 hours from receiving your score. However, scheduling a quick retake doesn’t mean you should rush. Most pre-med students benefit from taking at least 4-8 weeks to regroup, review weak areas, and implement a stronger MCAT prep plan.
You’ll need time to work through practice exams, review content, and address sections that need improvement, such as Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS). Jumping into a second test without measurable score improvement on practice tests can lead to another lower score, which stays on your record and is visible to medical schools. Admissions committees look for readiness, not just persistence. If you’re considering a retake, speak with a pre-health advisor, analyze your study habits, and ensure your next attempt reflects your full potential, not just a quick reaction to disappointment.
VIII. How a Low CARS Score Affects Your Application
The Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section is often the most challenging part of the MCAT exam, and a low CARS score can have a significant impact on your medical school application. Unlike content-based sections, CARS tests your ability to think critically, analyze arguments, and interpret dense passages; these are skills that are essential in med school and clinical decision-making.
Many MD programs place special emphasis on CARS because it reflects communication and reasoning abilities that aren't easily taught later. Even if your overall MCAT score is competitive, a weak performance in CARS may raise concerns for admissions officers, especially at schools that review section-by-section performance.
Before you retake the MCAT, it’s crucial to strengthen your CARS prep. BoosterPrep offers detailed resources to help: learn about what is a good CARS score and explore what is CARS on the MCAT to better understand what’s expected. Improving your CARS score with targeted practice questions, practice exams, and strategy-focused study can help you stand out and show your readiness for the rigors of medical school.
IX. MCAT Retake Myths to Avoid
When considering retaking the MCAT, it’s easy to fall for common myths that can lead to poor decisions and unnecessary stress. One of the biggest misconceptions is that medical schools only consider your highest score. In reality, most admissions committees see all your MCAT scores and evaluate them in context, looking at trends, score improvement, and consistency.
Another myth: “You should retake the MCAT exam as soon as possible.” While you can retake it shortly after your first attempt, rushing in without addressing weaknesses often results in a repeated lower score, which remains on your record and could raise red flags with admissions officers. Some pre-med students also believe that retaking the test multiple times will make them look determined. But too many MCAT attempts without significant improvement may do more harm than good. Medical schools care about growth, not repetition.
Finally, don’t assume a prep course is the only solution. For some students, focused MCAT prep with high-yield practice exams and practice questions is more effective than structured classes. Understanding the truth behind these myths can help you plan your retake strategically, and submit a stronger medical school application.
X. Final Thoughts: Retaking the MCAT for CARS Improvement
Retaking the MCAT isn’t just about trying again, it’s about coming back stronger and smarter. For many pre-med students, one attempt isn’t enough to reach their target MCAT score, especially when aiming for competitive medical school admissions. But a well-planned second try can show determination, growth, and a clear upward trend in MCAT performance. Before you retake the MCAT, make sure your decision is based on thoughtful reflection, not panic. Use your initial score, practice tests, and feedback to guide your new strategy. Focus your MCAT prep on weak areas, reinforce your strengths, and give yourself enough time to show real score improvement.
Medical schools care about more than just numbers. They want applicants who can learn from setbacks, adapt, and improve. Whether you're trying to raise a single section or boost your overall score, your recent score can make a difference, especially if it demonstrates the effort and readiness required for MD programs. In the end, it’s not about how many times you take the MCAT, but what you’ve learned and how you've grown between attempts. A strong retake can help turn a challenge into your next step forward.
XI. FAQ
Q: How many times can you retake the MCAT?
A: You can take the MCAT exam up to 3 times per year, 4 times over 2 years, and 7 times total in your lifetime. It’s important to factor this in when considering retaking the MCAT.
Q: Does retaking the MCAT hurt your application?
A: Not if there’s clear score improvement. Admissions committees often value growth. A higher MCAT score on a retake can boost your chances, especially if your initial score was below your target schools' range.
Q: How soon can you retake the MCAT?
A: You can register 24 hours after receiving your score, but it’s best to wait until you're fully prepared with better MCAT prep and consistent practice test results prior to retaking the MCAT.
Q: What’s a good reason to retake the MCAT?
A: If your current score limits your chances at your target MD schools, or doesn't reflect your true ability based on practice exams, it may be worth retaking. The goal is to show meaningful MCAT performance growth.