MCAT Exam 2026: Eligibility, Application, Dates, and More

What is the MCAT Exam? The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a computer-based standardized exam required for admission to medical schools in the USA, Canada, and Australia. Developed by the AAMC, it assesses problem-solving and critical thinking.

Medical College Admission Test or MCAT exam is a popular computer-based standardized test. It is an entrance exam required for admission to medical colleges in the USA and Canada. Also, some medical schools in Australia and some Caribbean countries ask for MCAT scores to offer admission. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) conducts MCAT exam multiple time in a year.

The objective of the Medical College Admission Test is to assess a candidate's readiness for medical school admission. The MCAT evaluates a candidate's critical thinking, problem-solving, and verbal reasoning skills and is not restricted to theoretical knowledge alone. Consider the MCAT exam as a common benchmark for comparing applicants' qualifications for medical school, similar to the NEET exam in India. However, there are many differences between MCAT and NEET.

This article covers everything about the MCAT exam 2026, including the new fee structure and updated international testing calendar. In short, you will have enough knowledge about this exam before appearing in it.

Related Read:

• Best Medical Colleges in the World
• Medical Courses in Canada
• Medical Courses in Australia

What is MCAT Exam?

MCAT is a CBT (Computer Based test) which is mandatory to get admission to medical schools in the USA, Canada, Australia and other countries. Students face multiple-choice questions related to organic chemistry, psychology, and sociology subjects.  To appear in this exam, students need to fulfil the eligibility and complete the MCAT registration process.

Indian students who are planning to appear for the Medical College Admission Test need to pay around USD 345 (INR 29,835) as MCAT registration fees. If you want to appear in the test outside the USA, Canada and U.S. territories, then you need to pay an additional USD 120 (INR 10,377) international fee. This fee is non-refundable.

MCAT Exam Eligibility

Now, the question is, what is MCAT eligibility and who can take this exam? MCAT is designed for candidates planning to apply to health professional schools, most commonly MD programs in the US and Canada. According to AAMC, here are point-wise eligibility to be eligible for registration

1. Study Programs: If you are applying for any of these programs:
   • MD.-granting programs.
   • DO.-granting programs.
   • Podiatric (D.P.M).
   • Veterinary medicine (D.V.M).
   • Any other health-related program that will accept MCAT exam results to satisfy a test score admissions requirement
2. Educational Qualification: Must hold a valid MBBS degree or be currently enrolled in an MBBS program. (For international students)
3. Age Limit: There is no official age limit announced by the exam conducting body.
4. No of Attempts: A candidate can not appear for the MCAT more than seven times in their lifetime.
5. Special permission: If you do not fulfil the study program and educational qualification criteria, you need to get “Special Permission” from AAMC to register yourself.

How to Apply for MCAT Exam?

Completing the MCAT registration is the first step to appearing in this popular medical entrance exam. It is not a complex method. Here is the step-by-step process to apply for MCAT 2026:

1. Visit the official website of AAMC and create a new account.
2. Fill up the personal details like phone number and email ID and create a password for your account.
3. Log in to the account using credentials and fill in the information asked there on the screen such as education qualification, registration details and more.
4. Select suitable center and MCAT dates according to your preferences.
5. At last pay the registration fee and keep a copy of the payment receipt.

MCAT Test Centers

The AAMC conducts this exam in 14 countries excluding USA and Canada. Indian students who want to appear in the Medical College Admission Test need to find the nearest test center during the time of registration. Below, we have mentioned the list of MCAT host countries:

Note: There is no MCAT test center in India. Thailand, Singapore and Qatar are the nearest countries where Indian students can take the exam.

Important Travel Tips for Indian Students (2026 Cycle)

Since there are no MCAT test centers in India, candidates must travel to nearby locations like Thailand, Singapore, or Malaysia. Here is an expert checklist for a smooth experience:

1. Book 4 Months Early: International seats in Bangkok and Singapore fill up instantly. Do not wait for the last date.

2. Check Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the correct Tourist or Visit Visa for the testing country well in advance.

3. Account for Jet Lag: Fly to the destination at least 24-48 hours before the exam to adjust to the local time zone and ensure you are rested for the 7.5-hour test.

4. Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your test date, as this is a strict ID requirement at the test center.

MCAT Test Dates 2026

Since the AAMC does not operate any MCAT testing centers in India for the 2026 cycle, Indian aspirants must travel to international locations to take the exam. The table below outlines the official 2026 test dates for the most accessible hubs (like Singapore and Thailand) and popular study destinations, allowing you to coordinate your flight and visa logistics well in advance.

MCAT Exam Pattern

There are 4 sections of the Medical College Admission Test. Below we have mentioned the breakdown:

1. Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (BBLS)
2. Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (CPBS)
3. Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (PSBB)
4. Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)

Section-Wise Duration and Questions

How to Prepare for MCAT 2026?

The MCAT is not a test of memory. It is a test of critical thinking. Most successful candidates spend between 300 to 350 hours preparing over 3 to 6 months. Since Indian students often excel in the science sections (Chemistry /Physics) but struggle with the Verbal (CARS) section, a targeted strategy is essential.

Pro Tip for Indian Students: Since you will likely travel to Singapore or Thailand for the exam, try to take at least one mock test in a new environment (like a library) to get used to focusing in unfamiliar settings.

That's all about the MCAT exam. The Medical College Admission Test is an important eligibility to pursue medical courses in USA and Canada. With dedicated preparation and using AAMC study materials, students can achieve their desired scores. Check out: Top 10 Medical Universities in USA.

 For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.