2026 MCAT Test Dates
The complete 2026 MCAT testing schedule — including registration deadlines, score release dates, and expert tips for choosing the right test date.
MCAT Testing Windows for 2026
The AAMC typically offers the MCAT from mid-January through mid-September, with test dates available on most Fridays and Saturdays throughout that window. Below is the projected 2026 schedule based on established AAMC patterns.
Registration, Deadlines & Score Release
MCAT registration opens through your AAMC account at students-residents.aamc.org. You will need to create an AAMC ID if you do not already have one.
Registration typically opens in early October of the preceding year for all dates in the upcoming testing cycle. Popular dates — especially those in March through June — fill up quickly, so registering as early as possible is strongly recommended.
Registration deadlines: The standard registration deadline is approximately 4 weeks before each test date. Late registration (with an additional fee) is available until approximately 2 weeks before the test. After that, only same-day registration may be possible if seats remain, subject to an additional surcharge.
2026 MCAT Test Dates, Deadlines & Score Release
The following table lists projected 2026 MCAT test dates along with approximate registration deadlines and score release dates. Always confirm exact dates on the official AAMC website.
| Test Date | Registration Deadline (approx.) | Score Release (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| January 16, 2026 (Fri) | December 19, 2025 | February 17, 2026 |
| January 17, 2026 (Sat) | December 19, 2025 | February 17, 2026 |
| January 23, 2026 (Fri) | December 26, 2025 | February 24, 2026 |
| March 13, 2026 (Fri) | February 13, 2026 | April 14, 2026 |
| March 14, 2026 (Sat) | February 13, 2026 | April 14, 2026 |
| March 27, 2026 (Fri) | February 27, 2026 | April 28, 2026 |
| April 17, 2026 (Fri) | March 20, 2026 | May 19, 2026 |
| April 24, 2026 (Fri) | March 27, 2026 | May 26, 2026 |
| April 25, 2026 (Sat) | March 27, 2026 | May 26, 2026 |
| May 8, 2026 (Fri) | April 10, 2026 | June 9, 2026 |
| May 15, 2026 (Fri) | April 17, 2026 | June 16, 2026 |
| May 16, 2026 (Sat) | April 17, 2026 | June 16, 2026 |
| May 29, 2026 (Fri) | May 1, 2026 | June 30, 2026 |
| June 5, 2026 (Fri) | May 8, 2026 | July 7, 2026 |
| June 19, 2026 (Fri) | May 22, 2026 | July 21, 2026 |
| June 20, 2026 (Sat) | May 22, 2026 | July 21, 2026 |
| July 10, 2026 (Fri) | June 12, 2026 | August 11, 2026 |
| July 17, 2026 (Fri) | June 19, 2026 | August 18, 2026 |
| July 18, 2026 (Sat) | June 19, 2026 | August 18, 2026 |
| August 7, 2026 (Fri) | July 10, 2026 | September 8, 2026 |
| August 8, 2026 (Sat) | July 10, 2026 | September 8, 2026 |
| August 21, 2026 (Fri) | July 24, 2026 | September 22, 2026 |
| September 4, 2026 (Fri) | August 7, 2026 | October 6, 2026 |
| September 11, 2026 (Fri) | August 14, 2026 | October 13, 2026 |
| September 12, 2026 (Sat) | August 14, 2026 | October 13, 2026 |
Disclaimer: The dates above are projected based on historical AAMC scheduling patterns and may not reflect the final 2026 schedule. Always verify test dates, registration deadlines, and score release dates on the official AAMC website.
How to Register for the MCAT
Registering for the MCAT is a straightforward process, but advance planning is critical to securing your preferred date and location.
Create Your AAMC ID
Visit the AAMC website and create an account if you do not already have one. You will use this account for MCAT registration, score access, and eventually your AMCAS application.
Select Your Date & Location
Browse available test dates and choose a Pearson VUE testing center near you. Popular dates in spring and early summer fill fastest, so register early for the best selection.
Pay the Registration Fee
The MCAT registration fee is approximately $335. Financial assistance is available through the AAMC Fee Assistance Program for eligible students, which covers the registration cost and provides free practice materials.
Confirm & Prepare
Review your registration details, save your confirmation, and begin your structured preparation. Dr. Donnelly recommends starting focused study 3 to 6 months before your test date.
Tips for Choosing Your MCAT Test Date
Your test date affects everything from your study timeline to your medical school application cycle. Here is how to make the right choice.
Allow 3 to 6 Months of Preparation
Most students need between three and six months of dedicated study to fully prepare for the MCAT. Count backward from your desired test date to determine when you need to start. If you are still completing prerequisite coursework, you may want to wait until after those classes finish before beginning intensive prep.
Align with Your Application Cycle
If you plan to apply in the current cycle, you generally want your MCAT score in hand before AMCAS opens (typically late May). Testing in March, April, or early May gives you a score before most schools begin reviewing applications. Testing later in summer is fine if you are applying for the following cycle.
Consider Your Academic Schedule
Avoid scheduling your MCAT during a semester when you have a heavy course load or other major commitments. Many students find that testing during summer break or shortly after spring finals allows them to devote full attention to their preparation.
Build in a Buffer for Retakes
While your goal should always be to achieve your target score on the first attempt, it is wise to choose a date that leaves room for a retake if needed. The AAMC requires you to wait at least 48 hours between scheduling a retake, and available seats fill up quickly during peak months.
How Early Should You Start Preparing?
Dr. Donnelly recommends the following general timelines based on your starting point and target score.
6+ Months Before
Ideal for students who are still completing prerequisite courses or have significant content gaps. This timeline allows thorough content review, extensive practice, and multiple full-length practice exams before test day.
3 to 5 Months Before
The most common preparation window. Suitable for students who have completed most prerequisites and can dedicate 15 to 25 hours per week to MCAT study. This is the timeline Dr. Donnelly uses for the majority of his tutoring programs.
6 to 10 Weeks Before
An intensive timeline for retakers or students with a strong content foundation. Dr. Donnelly offers accelerated programs for this timeframe that focus on strategy refinement, passage practice, and full-length exam simulations.
Start Your MCAT Preparation Today
No matter when your test date falls, the sooner you begin structured preparation, the higher your score will be. Book a free consultation with Dr. Donnelly to build your personalized study plan.