When should I take the MCAT?

he MCAT is offered, via computer only, multiple times throughout the spring. It is strongly recommended that you take the MCAT no later than the May preceding your planned year of matriculation (i.e. May 2012 for Fall 2013 matriculation).  Your scores are released 30-35 days after you take the exam. If you take the June exam your scores will not be available until mid-July, putting you behind applicants whose MCAT scores are available at the beginning of the application process.  In addition, if you take the exam in the spring you will know your scores before applying, which may affect which schools you ultimately choose to apply to. Completion of the pre-medical curriculum is essential to your preparation for the MCAT.