MCAT Test Dates 2026: The Complete List (Score Release Dates Included)
/Learn your options for 2026 MCAT test dates, including score release dates, plus when to prep and how to register
(Note: This resource also appears in our MCAT Ultimate Guide.)
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Introduction
If you’re applying to medical school in the U.S. or Canada, you’ll have to take the notorious Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Each year, you’ll have many potential MCAT test dates to choose from, and given the test’s importance in the med school admissions process, you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure you snag your ideal test date.
How long is the MCAT?
The actual exam begins at 8:00 AM and lasts 6 hours, 15 minutes. Administrative procedures and breaks bring the total test day time to about 7.5 hours.
(Suggested reading: How Long is the MCAT? A Complete Time Breakdown)
When is the MCAT offered?
The AAMC is offering 30 MCAT test dates in 2026 between January and September, so you can plan to study for and take the exam whenever is most convenient for you.
(Suggested reading: When Should You Take the MCAT? The Ideal Timeline)
Do MCAT test dates fill up?
Yes, they do, so it behooves you to register for the MCAT as early as possible. Otherwise, your preferred location or test date may not be available and you may have to take the exam at a less convenient time or at a less convenient location.
How much does it cost to take the MCAT?
As of August 2025, the MCAT registration fee (for those taking the test in 2025) is $345 for U.S. examinees and $465 for international test takers. If you qualify for the AAMC’s Fee Assistance Program (FAP), the registration fee is $140. As of this writing, the testing fees for tests for 2026 have not been released yet.
Note that if you have to cancel or reschedule your test, you’ll be charged additional fees. The exact amount will depend on how far in advance you’re amending your original registration.
How and when can I register for the MCAT?
You sign up for all MCAT test dates through the AAMC MCAT registration website.
Starting in October, you’ll be able to sign up for MCAT dates between January and June. Registration will open on Tuesday, October 21st.
For MCAT dates in July, August, and September, you can register beginning in February.
| MCAT Test Date | MCAT Score Release Date | Suggested MCAT Prep Dates |
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| MCAT Test Date | MCAT Score Release Date | Suggested MCAT Prep Dates |
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