The MCAT at a Glance

The Medical College Admissions Tests (MCAT) is a computer-based multiple choice examination used by medical school admissions officials to predict future success. The MCAT is designed to test your problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and writing skills, as well as your knowledge of basic science concepts. The test consists of 3 hours and 20 minutes of multiple-choice testing, plus one hour devoted to a writing sample. With all of the administrative details and breaks, the exam can last for 5½ hours.

The MCAT is primarily a thinking exam, testing your thought processes, as well as your knowledge of science. You will have to know the fundamental concepts of physics, general chemistry, biology, and organic chemistry. However, knowing these basics is just the beginning of doing well on the MCAT.