MCAT Exam Eligibility 2025: Requirements and Application Guide

The MCAT exam eligibility 2025 determines who can take the Medical College Admission Test to apply for medical programs in the U.S., Canada, and other countries. Candidates must hold or be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in science or related fields.  

There is no official age limit, but applicants must meet educational and documentation requirements set by the AAMC. The MCAT score is accepted by top universities like Harvard Medical School, Stanford University, and the University of Toronto. 

In this guide, you’ll read more about the eligibility requirements, documents needed, attempt limits, and criteria for Indian and international students. You’ll also find details on MCAT registration, exam fees, and common mistakes to avoid, helping you prepare confidently for the 2025 test cycle. 

Overview of the MCAT Exam 

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, computer-based exam conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). It assesses a candidate’s critical thinking, problem-solving, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social sciences, skills essential for success in medical school. The test is accepted by leading medical schools in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the Caribbean, including Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, and McGill University. 

Below is a quick overview of the exam structure: 

Exam Section	Duration	Question Type	Score Range
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems	95 minutes	Multiple Choice	118–132
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)	90 minutes	Multiple Choice	118–132
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems	95 minutes	Multiple Choice	118–132
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior	95 minutes	Multiple Choice	118–132

Why is the MCAT Important for Medical Students? 

The MCAT plays a crucial role in medical school admissions worldwide. It acts as a standardized benchmark that helps universities compare applicants fairly, regardless of their academic background.  

Admissions committees use MCAT scores along with GPA, personal statements, and interview performance to assess a candidate’s readiness for rigorous medical training. 

A strong MCAT score can significantly enhance your chances of admission to top medical programs such as Stanford University, University of Toronto, or Yale School of Medicine, proving your academic preparedness and commitment to a medical career. 

MCAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2025 

The MCAT exam eligibility 2025 guidelines set by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) define who can take the test to apply for medical programs in the U.S., Canada, and other participating countries.  

Below are the key eligibility requirements candidates must fulfill before registration. 

Academic Qualification 

To appear for the MCAT exam 2025, candidates must have completed or be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent program. While the AAMC doesn’t specify a particular major, most applicants have a strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, and Biochemistry. 

Students planning to apply to medical schools like Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, or the University of Toronto typically pursue pre-medical or life science degrees. Candidates must also ensure their undergraduate program is recognized by an accredited institution. 

Age Limit for MCAT 

There is no official age limit for taking the MCAT. However, candidates should be academically prepared and have completed the necessary coursework before attempting the exam. Practically, most test-takers are in their early to mid-20s, usually after or during their undergraduate studies. 

The AAMC only restricts attempts per testing cycle, not by age, allowing both traditional and non-traditional students to pursue medicine at any stage of their careers. 

Eligibility for Indian Students 

Indian students are eligible to take the MCAT exam if they meet the same academic requirements as U.S. candidates. This includes holding or pursuing a bachelor’s degree in science or related fields from a recognized Indian university. The exam is conducted globally, and Indian students can register through the AAMC website and take the test at designated centers. 

Below is a summary of eligibility requirements for Indian students: 

Eligibility Factor	Indian Students Requirement
Minimum Education	Bachelor’s degree or in final year of graduation
Accepted Fields	Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Biochemistry, Psychology
Exam Availability	Conducted at test centers in India and neighboring countries
Recognition	Accepted by U.S., Canadian, and select global medical schools

Eligibility for International Students 

International students from countries other than the U.S. and Canada can also appear for the MCAT exam 2025 if they are applying to a medical school that requires the test for admission. They must provide valid identification documents, such as a passport, and ensure their educational qualifications are equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree. 

All documents submitted during registration must be in English or accompanied by a verified translation. International candidates must also verify that their target medical schools accept MCAT scores as part of the admission process before applying. 

Also Read: MCAT Exam Pattern (2025–2026) 

MCAT Exam Eligibility by Course Type 

The MCAT exam eligibility 2025 varies slightly depending on the type of medical program you plan to apply for. Whether you’re targeting MBBS-equivalent programs abroad or graduate medical programs like MD or DO, it’s essential to understand the entry criteria before registering. 

For MBBS and Pre-Med Programs 

Students who wish to pursue MBBS-equivalent or pre-medical programs abroad must meet certain academic and documentation requirements before appearing for the MCAT exam. 

Most international universities that offer MBBS-equivalent courses (such as those in the Caribbean, Australia, or Canada) require applicants to have completed or be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree in science or a related field. In some cases, exceptional students from integrated or accelerated pre-med programs may also be allowed to appear for the test early. 

Key points for MBBS and pre-med applicants: 

• Must hold or be pursuing a bachelor’s degree with strong emphasis on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. 
• Should have prior coursework or practical exposure to laboratory sciences. 
• Must be applying to a program that requires MCAT scores for admission. 
• Common universities accepting MCAT for MBBS-equivalent courses include the University of Queensland, St. George’s University, and American University of Antigua. 

For Graduate Medical Programs 

For students applying to graduate-level programs such as MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) in the U.S. and Canada, appearing for the MCAT is mandatory. 

These programs are designed for candidates who have already completed their undergraduate education, typically with pre-med coursework. AAMC recommends that candidates only take the MCAT if they are applying to medical schools that explicitly require it. 

Eligibility highlights for graduate programs: 

• Must hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution. 
• Should have completed prerequisite subjects including Organic Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, and Biochemistry. 
• Recommended GPA and prior research or healthcare exposure enhance application competitiveness. 
• Popular universities accepting MCAT for MD or DO programs include Harvard Medical School, Stanford University, McGill University, and University of British Columbia. 

Overall, the eligibility for the MCAT exam depends on your target program’s level, undergraduate pre-med or graduate medical, and ensuring that your academic background aligns with AAMC’s minimum requirements. 

Documents Required for MCAT Exam Registration 

Before registering for the MCAT exam 2025, candidates must prepare a set of documents to verify their identity, educational background, and eligibility. These documents help ensure that your registration with the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) is valid and that there are no delays during verification or test-day check-in. 

Required Documents for MCAT Exam Registration 

Document Type	Accepted Proof	Notes
Identification	Passport, Driver’s License, or National ID	Must be valid, government-issued, and match registration name
Educational Proof	Bachelor’s degree certificate or final-year transcript	Needed to confirm academic eligibility
Proof of Enrollment	University ID card or enrollment letter	Applicable for students still pursuing their degree
Special Accommodations (if applicable)	Medical certificate or diagnostic report	Submit to AAMC for approval before test registration
Payment Confirmation	AAMC email receipt or transaction slip	Keep a copy for reference and record verification

Ensuring that all your documents are valid, current, and match the registration details is crucial to avoid disqualification or test-day issues. Always verify document requirements on the official AAMC MCAT website before applying. 

Also Read: Medical Entrance Exams After 12th: Eligibility & Deadlines 

MCAT Attempt Limits and Validity 

The MCAT exam 2025 comes with specific attempt limits set by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) to maintain fairness and consistency in medical school admissions. Understanding these limits helps candidates plan their preparation and application timeline more effectively. 

MCAT Attempt Rules 

Candidates are allowed a fixed number of MCAT attempts within a specific time frame. Exceeding these limits is not permitted under any circumstance. 

Here’s how the MCAT attempt policy works: 

• You can take the MCAT up to 3 times in a single testing year. 
• You can take the MCAT up to 4 times over two consecutive years. 
• You can take the MCAT a maximum of 7 times in your lifetime. 

Each registration, whether you appear for the exam or not, counts toward these limits once the registration deadline passes. Therefore, it’s important to register only when you’re fully prepared. 

MCAT Score Validity Period 

The MCAT score is valid for 2 to 3 years, depending on the university’s admission policy. Most U.S. and Canadian medical schools accept scores that are no older than 3 years from the date of application. 

For example: 

• If you plan to apply for Fall 2026 admissions, you can use a score earned anytime between 2023 and 2025. 

Impact on Admission Timelines 

Understanding score validity helps you align your test date with your medical school application cycle. Taking the exam too early may result in your score expiring before admission, while taking it too late could limit your application options. 

To stay competitive, most students take the MCAT exam in the spring or summer of the year before their intended application, ensuring their score remains valid for all top universities like Harvard Medical School, University of Toronto, and Stanford University. 

MCAT Eligibility for Specific Regions 

The MCAT exam 2025 is a globally recognized test, and eligibility criteria remain consistent across most countries. However, registration procedures, test availability, and verification requirements can vary slightly depending on where you plan to take the exam. Below is a breakdown of the eligibility process for Indian, U.S., and Canadian applicants. 

MCAT Exam in India 

Indian students are fully eligible to appear for the MCAT exam, provided they meet the AAMC’s academic criteria. The test is conducted multiple times a year at authorized Pearson VUE centers in major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. 

How Indian students can register and apply: 

1. Visit the official AAMC website and create an account. 
2. Select the MCAT test center in India and preferred test date. 
3. Upload a valid passport as identification proof. 
4. Pay the exam fee using an international payment method (credit/debit card). 

Once completed, candidates receive confirmation from AAMC with exam details. 

Using MCAT scores for international applications: 
Indian students can submit their MCAT scores while applying to U.S., Canadian, Australian, or Caribbean medical schools that accept the test. Top institutions such as Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Toronto recognize MCAT scores for their MD and MBBS-equivalent programs. 

MCAT for US and Canadian Applicants 

For students in the United States and Canada, the MCAT serves as a mandatory requirement for entry into most accredited medical schools. Eligibility criteria are largely the same, but additional document verification and application alignment with local admission cycles are essential. 

Key eligibility notes for U.S. and Canadian applicants: 

• Must be pursuing or holding a bachelor’s degree in science or a pre-medical field. 
• Must submit accurate identification (driver’s license or passport) matching their AAMC registration details. 
• Can choose from a wide network of Pearson VUE test centers across both countries. 
• Students typically take the MCAT during their junior or senior undergraduate year to align with the AMCAS (U.S.) or OMSAS (Canada) medical school application timelines. 

Overall, while the eligibility requirements are similar across regions, candidates must ensure they meet both AAMC and university-specific standards to make the most of their MCAT scores for international medical admissions. 

MCAT Exam Eligibility Exceptions 

While the MCAT exam eligibility 2025 follows standard academic requirements, the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) allows certain exceptions for non-traditional applicants and students from diverse educational backgrounds. These exceptions ensure that capable candidates who didn’t follow a typical pre-med path can still pursue medical education through alternate or special routes. 

1. Non-Traditional Applicants 

Non-traditional applicants include individuals who have taken a break after their undergraduate studies or are switching careers into medicine. These candidates are still eligible for the MCAT, provided they meet the minimum educational qualifications. 

Examples include: 

• Working professionals with degrees in non-medical fields like engineering, psychology, or public health. 
• Students who pursued humanities or social science majors but completed core pre-med prerequisites (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics). 
• Individuals returning to academics after a gap who intend to apply to medical schools. 

Such applicants often strengthen their profiles through post-baccalaureate pre-med programs before appearing for the MCAT. 

2. Graduates from Non-Science Backgrounds 

The MCAT does not restrict candidates based on their undergraduate major. Applicants from non-science backgrounds can take the test if they demonstrate proficiency in the required scientific areas. 

To qualify, candidates must complete or self-study key pre-med subjects such as: 

• General and Organic Chemistry 
• Biology and Biochemistry 
• Physics 
• Psychology and Sociology 

Many universities, including Stanford University and McGill University, consider MCAT scores from candidates with diverse academic profiles, provided they meet other admission requirements like GPA and coursework prerequisites. 

3. Special Admission Routes 

Certain universities and programs offer special admission pathways for candidates who don’t fit the standard eligibility model. These may include: 

• Combined BS/MD or Early Assurance Programs where students apply before completing a bachelor’s degree. 
• International collaborative medical programs that consider MCAT alternatives or adjusted criteria. 
• Postgraduate or second-degree entrants who already hold advanced degrees (like MSc or PhD) in related disciplines. 

In such cases, eligibility decisions are typically handled on a case-by-case basis by the respective medical schools, though AAMC approval for taking the MCAT remains necessary. 

Tips to Check MCAT Eligibility Before Applying 

Before registering for the MCAT exam 2025, it’s important to verify your eligibility carefully. A simple oversight in your documents or academic details can lead to delays or even test-day issues. Here are some essential tips to ensure your eligibility is fully compliant with AAMC guidelines before applying: 

• Confirm your academic qualification: 
  Make sure you have completed or are currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in a recognized institution with coursework in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. 
• Verify your identification details: 
  Ensure your passport or government-issued ID is valid, not expired, and that the name matches exactly with what you’ll enter in your AAMC account. 
• Create and verify your AAMC account: 
  Register on the AAMC official website using accurate personal information. Double-check your email address, name, and date of birth before submission. 
• Check university recognition: 
  If you studied outside the U.S. or Canada, verify that your institution’s degree is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree. You can confirm this through recognized credential evaluation agencies. 
• Review test availability and eligibility by location: 
  Confirm that the MCAT exam is conducted in your country or region and that your target medical schools accept MCAT scores. 
• Keep supporting documents ready: 
  Gather academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, and, if applicable, special accommodation documents approved by AAMC. 
• Understand attempt limits and score validity: 
  Review how many times you can take the MCAT (maximum 3 times per year) and ensure your planned test date aligns with your medical school application cycle. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

When applying for the MCAT exam 2025, even small errors can affect your registration or eligibility approval. Being aware of these common mistakes can save time and prevent complications later in the process.  

Here are the most frequent issues applicants face: 

• Skipping prerequisite coursework: 
  Many students apply without completing essential subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, which are fundamental for MCAT success and medical school readiness. 
• Missing or incorrect document uploads: 
  Failing to upload valid identification, transcripts, or proof of enrollment can delay your registration approval. Always ensure all uploaded files are clear and up to date. 
• Name mismatch on ID and AAMC account: 
  Differences between your AAMC account name and official ID (such as passport) can lead to disqualification on test day. 
• Ignoring exam attempt and validity rules: 
  Some students exceed the allowed 3 attempts per year or overlook the score validity period, leading to wasted attempts or expired results. 
• Misunderstanding regional eligibility: 
  International applicants, especially from India and non-U.S. regions, sometimes register without checking whether their degree is accepted by U.S. or Canadian medical schools. 
• Not verifying university or course equivalence: 
  Students from non-U.S. institutions may forget to validate if their bachelor’s degree matches the U.S. education system, leading to eligibility issues during admission. 
• Last-minute registration errors: 
  Rushing through the registration process often results in wrong exam center selection or incomplete documentation uploads. 

Avoiding these common mistakes ensures a smooth MCAT registration experience and strengthens your readiness for admission to top medical schools like Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and Stanford University. 

Conclusion 

Understanding the MCAT exam eligibility 2025 is the first and most crucial step toward securing admission to leading medical schools like Harvard University, Stanford University, or the University of Toronto. Meeting the eligibility criteria not only ensures a smooth registration process but also reflects your readiness for the academic rigor of medical education. 

From verifying your academic background and documents to understanding attempt limits and regional eligibility, every detail matters. By following the official AAMC guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can confidently take the next step toward your medical career. 

Whether you’re applying from India, the U.S., or abroad, fulfilling all MCAT requirements will bring you one step closer to achieving your dream of becoming a doctor. 

If you need help understanding the MCAT exam eligibility or planning your study abroad journey, connect with a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad.