Registration for the July-September 2025 test dates will open Feb. 19 at 12:00 p.m. ET. If you plan on scheduling your exam on opening day, read these tips to help the process go as smoothly as possible.
Determine the right time to take the MCAT exam
One of our most frequently asked questions is “When should I take my MCAT exam?” The best advice we can give you is to take the exam when you feel well prepared. Before making a decision, ask yourself these three questions: (1) When do I want to attend medical school? (2) Will I need to take my exam more than once? and (3) Have I mastered the content tested on the exam? Read more tips to help you determine the right time to take the exam now.
Fill out your background information in the MCAT Registration System
You can fill out the first five tabs and review the terms and conditions in the MCAT Registration System. Doing this in advance will save you time and allow you to go straight to scheduling when you log into the system on opening day. Watch this video for a quick overview.
Look into the AAMC Fee Assistance Program
Benefits of the Fee Assistance Program include free MCAT prep materials, a reduced registration fee, and much more. But benefits are not retroactive, so if you apply after you register for the exam, you cannot get the discounted rate. Be sure to apply with plenty of time (at least 5 business days) beforehand to get the most out of the program.
Have your MCAT-accepted ID with you when you register
Taking this step proactively will help ensure your registration matches your ID exactly. Check our website to make sure your ID meets the test day requirements.
Familiarize yourself with the waiting room
There will be thousands of examinees registering at the same time as you in the first few hours of opening day, so expect a little bit of a wait. You will be automatically directed to the waiting room when before you log in to the MCAT Registration System, and you’ll be able to see how many examinees are ahead of you in line. You can also sign up to be notified when it’s your turn to register. Watch a video to learn more about the waiting room.
Remember: It’s OK if you’re not ready to schedule your exam on opening day. The registration system is available after Feb. 19 for scheduling. For more information, check out our tips for registration on opening day webpage or join the registration webinar on Feb. 6.