2026 MCAT Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Score Release Dates
2026 MCAT Test Dates for the U.S., Canada, and International Test Centers
This page covers the official 2026 MCAT test dates, registration deadlines, score release dates, and exam fees for students testing in the United States, Canada, and international test centers. Choosing the right MCAT date is an important part of your medical school timeline because an earlier test date can give you more flexibility when submitting your application. Use the table below to compare deadlines and plan your exam date with confidence.
2026 U.S. MCAT Test Dates and Score Release Dates
The 2026 MCAT testing year runs from January through September. For most test dates, the standard start time is 8:00 a.m., and official scores are released by 5:00 p.m. ET on the scheduled score release date. Registration, rescheduling, and cancellation deadlines are based on 11:59 p.m. local test center time, so be sure to confirm the exact deadline for your selected location.
| 2026 MCAT Test Dates | MCAT Score Release Dates | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| January 9 | February 10 | ||
| January 15 | February 17 | ||
| January 23 | February 24 | ||
| February 13 | March 17 | ||
| March 7 | April 7 | ||
| April 10 | May 12 | ||
| April 24 | May 27 | ||
| May 8 | June 9 | ||
| May 14 | June 16 | ||
| May 30 | June 30 | ||
| June 12 | July 14 | ||
| June 13 | July 14 | ||
| June 26 | July 28 | ||
| June 27 | July 28 | ||
| July 11 | August 11 | ||
| July 24 | August 25 | ||
| July 25 | August 25 | ||
| July 31 | September 2 | ||
| August 1 | September 2 | ||
| August 7 | September 8 | ||
| August 8 | September 8 | ||
| August 14 | September 15 | ||
| August 15 | September 15 | ||
| August 20 | September 22 | ||
| August 21 | September 22 | ||
| August 22 | September 22 | ||
| August 28 | September 29 | ||
| September 3 | October 6 | ||
| September 4 | October 6 | ||
| September 5 | October 6 | ||
| September 11 | October 13 | ||
| September 12 | October 13 |
Tips for Choosing Your MCAT Exam Date:
- Plan Ahead: Register early to secure your preferred date and location.
- Balance Study Time: Select a date that allows ample time for comprehensive content review and practice.
- Meet Application Deadlines: Align your test date to ensure your score is available for your target medical school's application cycle.
- Take Practice Tests: Schedule your exam only after you've achieved consistent target scores on full-length practice tests.
- Consider Retakes: Choose a test date that allows time for a retake if needed, without delaying your application.
- Check Availability: Verify testing center availability in your area to avoid travel issues.
Prepare for Your Exam
Study Resources
Science Summaries
2026 MCAT Registration Fees
2026 MCAT Fee Structure (in USD)
The AAMC MCAT’s standard registration fee is $345, and for the Fee Assistance Program (FAP), it's $140. There are three MCAT registration deadlines, detailed in the table below.
| Registration Deadline | Standard Reschedule Fee | Standard Cancellation Refund | FAP Reschedule Fee | FAP Cancellation Refund |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-29 days before the exam | $200 | $0 | $80 | $0 |
| 30-59 days before the exam | $100 | $170 | $40 | $70 |
| 60 or more days before the exam | $50 | $170 | $20 | $70 |
All deadlines are at 11:59 p.m. ET. Please note that all registration fees are non-refundable upon cancellation. An additional international fee of $120 is applied to those testing outside the United States, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For Canadian students, a dedicated Fee Assistance Program for Canadian Examinees is also available.
MCAT Testing Centers
The MCAT is administered at various testing centers in the U.S. territories and internationally. Locations may include:
- Guam, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands
- Australia, China (Hong Kong), France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, Qatar, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United Kingdom.
Please be aware that this list is subject to change. For the most current information, it is essential to check the official AAMC's US Territories and International Testing Calendar.
Essential Registration Checklist
Before you register for your 2026 MCAT exam, ensure you follow these critical steps:
- Eligibility & Account: Confirm you meet all eligibility criteria and have a current AAMC account.
- Plan Ahead: Review all available 2026 test dates and locations.
- Fee Assistance: If you are eligible for the Fee Assistance Program, get approved before you register to receive the discounted rate.
- Documents & Payment: Have a valid government-issued ID ready and a credit card for payment.
- Stay Informed: Always refer to the official AAMC website for the latest registration details, deadlines, and policy updates.
MCAT Test Day Rules and Procedures
Prepare for the big day by familiarizing yourself with these essential MCAT test day rules and procedures. The AAMC and Pearson VUE are committed to upholding these guidelines to ensure a fair and secure testing environment for all examinees.
Before You Go: Key Test Day Reminders
1. Read the MCAT Examinee Agreement. When you register for the MCAT, you agree to a strict non-disclosure contract. This agreement prohibits you from discussing the test content or your specific exam experience with anyone, including online forums or social media.
2. Understand Testing Center Regulations. Be sure to review the official rules of the testing center to avoid any surprises. Familiarizing yourself with the procedures for check-in, breaks, and security will help you stay focused on your exam.
What to Bring (And What to Leave Behind)
The following are the only items you will be allowed to bring into the testing room:
- Acceptable ID: A valid, government-issued photo ID with your first and last name matching your MCAT registration. The ID must not be expired and must be in English.
- Provided Materials: The testing center will provide you with a noteboard and marker for your scratch work, as well as foam and wireless earplugs to help you concentrate.
- Storage Key: A key for your personal storage locker will also be provided.
If you have a medical condition that requires a personal item, refer to the "Personal Medical Items" section of the AAMC's Applying for Accommodations guide.
Breaks and Your Belongings
Breaks are a crucial part of your test day strategy. During your two 10-minute breaks and one 30-minute mid-exam break, you can access only food, water, and medication from your locker. You are not allowed to access your cell phone, gadgets, or study materials during this time. Remember, you should not leave the testing center premises at any point during your breaks.
