2027 MCAT Test Dates & Score Release Dates

There is a lot riding on choosing the best MCAT test date for yourself, as it is one of the most important exams you will write during your pre-med journey. Planning ahead can give you a major advantage, and this guide provides an overview of MCAT test dates for the 2027 exam cycle and when MCAT test dates open for 2027. The MCAT test dates and score release date you choose can impact your medical school application as well as which school you can apply to.

I. 2027 MCAT Testing Calendar

The MCAT exam is administered by the AAMC on multiple dates throughout the year to accommodate a wide range of applicant timelines and schedules. There are 30 2027 MCAT test dates scheduled from January through September, each with its own registration deadline, score release date, and optimal study timeline. Be especially mindful of the 10-day deadline, which is the final day to cancel, reschedule, or modify your registration without forfeiting your full exam fee. Similar to previous years, the MCAT test dates for the coming testing year is typically released in late September of each year. Here is the official 2027 MCAT testing calendar, including cancellation deadlines and score release dates:

2027 MCAT Registration Dates

MCAT registration will be opening on October 20-22, 2027 depending on what part of the country you are in. The opening for registration depends on whether you are in the western or eastern part of the USA. The dates with an asterisk signal dates that are only available at select US testing centers. The 60-day deadline is the deadline is the latest you can cancel your exam for a partial refund or make changes to your registration. The 30-day deadline is the final date to make changes where the cancellation refunds no longer applied and you can still make changes to the final date with reduced scheduling fees. The 10-day deadline is the final cutoff to cancel your MCAT. Note that all of these dates are at local test center time.

2027 International MCAT Test Dates

International MCAT test dates generally have less options depending on the region you are in. Although the testing dates overlap, it is important to double check that you have a selected test date in mind. Be sure to check out the AAMC article on this matter. For more information on Canadian test dates, check out the following article.

II. MCAT Registration & Preparation

How to Register for the MCAT

Registering for the MCAT exam is a crucial step in your medical school journey. Whether you're aiming for a top score or simply want to ensure you have enough time to prepare, securing your preferred MCAT 2027 test dates early is essential. The registration process is managed entirely through the AAMC MCAT Registration System, and getting familiar with the steps will help you avoid common pitfalls.

Step-by-Step MCAT Registration Process

1. Create Your AAMC Account
   • Go to the AAMC MCAT Registration System and either create a new account or log into your existing one.
   • Make sure your profile information matches your government-issued ID exactly to avoid issues on test day. Inconsistent information could result in denied entry to the testing center.
2. Select Your Test Date and Location
   • Once logged in, use the MCAT Scheduling System to view all available MCAT test dates in 2027 and testing locations.
   • Consider factors such as test prep timelines, your academic schedule, and application deadlines when choosing your date.
   • Popular dates fill up quickly, especially in spring and summer, so register early to secure your spot.
3. Complete the Registration and Payment
   • Choose your preferred location and test date, and then proceed to the payment page.
   • The MCAT registration fee typically ranges from $325 to $370, depending on how close to the test date you register.
   • If eligible, apply for the AAMC Fee Assistance Program to reduce costs.
   • Complete the payment using a credit or debit card, and make sure to save the confirmation email as proof of registration.
4. Verify Your Exam Details
   • Double-check that your registration details, including the test date, testing center, and personal information, are accurate.
   • You can view your registration confirmation and details on your AAMC profile at any time.

Key Registration Deadlines and Tips

• Registration for all MCAT 2027 testing dates opens on October 20-22, 2026 depending on where your location in the United States is. This is different than previous years where registration opened in different blocks.
• It's crucial to register as soon as possible after these dates to increase your chances of getting your preferred MCAT test date and testing center.
• Be mindful of the 10-day deadline, which is the last day you can change, reschedule, or cancel your registration without forfeiting your full exam fee.

How to Choose the Best MCAT Test Date

Selecting the right MCAT test date is essential to optimize your performance and meet your medical school application timelines. Your chosen date should align with your study plan, academic schedule, and the application deadlines of your target programs.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Medical School Deadlines
   • Ensure to research all of your chosen medical schools and make sure your score released dates aligns with your application submission. Schedule your test for spring or early summer if you are trying to apply early in rolling admissions.
2. Academic and Personal Schedule
   • Ensure you balance MCAT prep with other commitments and avoid test dates that interfere with other significant obligations. Try your best to use summer months for prep so as to minimize stress.
3. Study Timeline
   • Most students require 300-400 hours of prep and you should choose a test date with this in mind so that you do not have to cram. Remember, CARS is a much more challenging section and might require more time than expected.
4. CARS Performance
   • The CARS section is often the most challenging and time-consuming section to study for. It involves analytical reasoning skills and if your scores are consistently low it might be a good idea to choose a test that is much later on. For more strategies on this, check out our guide on How to Improve Your CARS Score on the MCAT. Additionally check out the free daily CARS passage on CARSBooster!

Strategic Tips

• Plan for a Retake: Choose an early test date to allow time for a possible retake without delaying applications.
• Register Early: High-demand dates fill up fast, especially in spring and summer, so secure your spot as soon as registration opens. Make sure to apply for the AAMC Fee Assistance Program if possible.
• Prioritize Readiness: Schedule your exam when you feel well-prepared rather than rushing to meet a deadline.
• Avoid Stress Periods: Choose a test date that doesn't coincide with finals or major commitments.
• Build Flexibility: Plan some buffer time in case unexpected challenges arise.

When to Start Preparing for the MCAT

Determining when to start preparing for the MCAT exam depends on your chosen test date, academic schedule, and how much time you need to reach your target score. On average, students dedicate 300–400 hours of study time over 3 to 6 months. Starting early helps reduce stress and allows for thorough content review and ample practice, particularly for challenging sections like CARS.

Recommended Prep Timelines Based on Test Month

1. Winter (January–March)
   • Ideal for students with lighter fall schedules or those planning to apply early with January MCAT test dates. You should focus on building a strong science foundation and then subsequent practice exams.
2. Spring (April–June)
   • Good timing if you want your scores ready for early application deadlines. Begin studying in November or December and use your winter break for intensive prep and do full length exams in February.
3. Summer (July–September)
   • Ideal for students who prefer to focus on classes during the academic year and dedicate the summer to MCAT preparation. This also allows you to balance MCAT prep with any summer commitments and allow for a less rushed approach.

Suggested Preparation Phases

• Content Review: Focus on biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and CARS. Use reliable MCAT prep books and online resources.
• Practice Questions: Start incorporating practice problems early to reinforce content knowledge.
• Full-Length Exams: Take at least 4–5 full-length practice tests, spaced out to track progress.

For more targeted tips on studying for the CARS section, visit our guide: How to Study for CARS MCAT Effectively.

III. MCAT Score Release Dates

Knowing your MCAT score release date is crucial for planning your medical school application timeline. Typically, MCAT exam scores are released about 30-35 days after your test date, usually on Wednesdays. You will receive an email notification from the AAMC once your scores are available. To access them, log in to your AAMC MCAT Score Reporting System account on the expected release date. While delays are rare, it's important to check your account regularly.

The minimum wait time for MCAT scores is 31 days after the exam. Scores are generally released on 5:00 p.m. ET on the release date at local test center time. Although this time is the latest, scores often appear earlier than 5:00 p.m. ET local test center time. Because of how the logistics of MCAT centers work, approximately 42 test dates lead to approximately 27 distinct score release date.

As a general overview, the 2027 MCAT test dates start on January 15, and end on September 11. The first score release date is February 16, and the last is October 12. Make sure to access the MCAT registration system and register for the test date you want before the last date passes.

If your scores are not released as expected, first log into your AAMC account to check for any updates or messages. Sometimes delays happen due to technical issues or data verification. The AAMC may post updates directly on your account page. If your scores are significantly delayed, contact AAMC Support for assistance. If a delay affects a critical medical school deadline, inform the schools you are applying to so they are aware of the situation.

Once available, your MCAT score report will include your total score, section scores, and percentile ranks. Download and print your score report as soon as it becomes available to ensure you have it for your applications. You can also use the AAMC system to send your official MCAT scores to your designated medical schools. Regularly monitor your email for notifications from the AAMC regarding your MCAT score release. Staying informed will help you address any issues promptly and ensure that your scores are accessible when needed.

IV. Additional MCAT Prep Advice

CARS Section: Plan Your Test Date Strategically

The Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section of the MCAT exam is often the most challenging for students because it requires critical thinking, reading comprehension, and analytical reasoning rather than content memorization. Since improving your CARS score takes time and consistent practice, choosing the right MCAT test date is essential. If your CARS practice scores are consistently lower than those in other sections, it may be wise to select a later test date to allow more time for targeted preparation. Schools that emphasize verbal reasoning and analytical skills often weigh CARS scores heavily, making it crucial to plan strategically.

For many students, boosting CARS performance takes longer because it involves developing reasoning skills rather than memorizing content. Choosing a test date that aligns with your CARS-focused prep can make a significant difference. Winter dates (January–March) work well if you started prepping in the fall and focused on CARS during the break. Spring dates (April–June) are suitable if you began studying in winter, while summer dates (July–September) are ideal if you need additional time to strengthen your CARS skills.

To boost your MCAT CARS score, practice regularly with diverse reading materials, including humanities and social sciences articles, to build versatility in comprehension. Analyze your practice results to understand why certain answers were correct and where your reasoning fell short. Incorporate timed CARS practice tests to build endurance and accuracy. For effective practice, check out our guides on MCAT CARS Practice: Enhance Your Skills with CARSBooster and What Is CARS on the MCAT?

MCAT Prep Resources

Preparing for the MCAT exam requires a strategic approach, access to high-quality MCAT prep resources, and planning around the official test dates MCAT 2027. To effectively cover the wide range of content, from biology to the CARS section, it's essential to use official AAMC practice tests, as they accurately reflect the MCAT format and difficulty level. When reviewing your scores ensure to use the MCATBooster Chrome extension (it’s 100% free!) and keep an eye out for the full MCATBooster platform coming soon!

For the CARS section, focus on building reading comprehension and critical analysis skills through consistent practice. We currently have CARSBooster to offer targeted MCAT CARS practice questions and comprehensive guides. The Booster Prep MCAT Score Calculator can help you track progress and pinpoint areas needing improvement.

In addition to content review, practice test-taking strategies, including time management and eliminating trap answers. Simulating real test conditions with timed sections helps build stamina and confidence. Combining strategic practice with top-tier MCAT resources will optimize your performance on test day.

V. FAQ

Q: Are international dates available?

A: Yes, the MCAT exam is offered at various international testing locations. Regarding registration times for MCAT international test dates, 2027, USA and international availability opens at the same time. Make sure to check the AAMC website for the most current list of international MCAT dates and locations. The last testing date for international locations is also August 28 for the 2027 MCAT testing year.

Q: When are the 2027 MCAT test dates?

A: MCAT 2027 test dates can be found in our table under “2027 MCAT Testing Calendar” as well as on the AAMC official website. Make sure you take into account center location when registering. Different center locations have different travel times.

Q: When does registration open for the 2027 MCAT?

A: The approved MCAT test dates for 2027 will release along with the respective testing will be released by October 20-22, 2026. Ensure you submit your registration and weigh the benefits of each possible reservation. Decide on your registration well before the testing dates in Jan, Aug, or Sept. August test dates are generally the most popular and fill up the fastest so make sure to register for those ahead of time. Additionally ensure that you apply for any necessary financial assistance for resources and fees ahead of time.

Q: When are 2027 MCAT scores released?

A: The 2027 MCAT test release dates can be found in our table under “2027 MCAT Testing Calendar as well as on the AAMC official website. Generally the score release occurs about 30-35 days after test day. You will also get an email about this and you can check other platforms such as reddit for more info on your test day results and whether they have been delayed.

Q: How should I choose my MCAT test date?

A: This depends on center location, testing year, the dates that AAMC publishes, as well as scheduling deadlines. The general piece of advice is to reserve 4-6 months for your MCAT preparation. If possible make sure to apply for the AAMC Fee Assistance Program for additional financial assistance. The last date for the 2027 MCAT testing year is August 28!