The MCAT exam contains three optional, scheduled breaks. Follow the exam schedule carefully (refer to MCAT Exam Content). Taking breaks longer than the allotted time can lead to loss of exam time or ability to void the exam. If your break exceeds the allotted time, any overage may be subtracted from the time in the following test section.
- You will need to allow time for check-in procedures when you return from your break.
- You will be responsible for tracking your break time using the clock in the test center waiting area. If you do not see a clock, you may ask the test center staff where you can monitor your time. Test center staff are not responsible for recording or tracking your time.
- You will not be permitted to leave the test center floor or building to retrieve food or drink, nor will you be permitted to have food or drink delivered to the testing center.
- If you return from a break before the break time expires, you will be required to continue the exam immediately upon being seated. You may not write on your noteboard until you press “End Break”.
- Any remaining break time will not be applied to subsequent sections of the exam or future or scheduled breaks.
- If you finish a section early, you may continue to the next section, but additional time will not carry over to any subsequent sections or breaks. You will not be able to return to a previous section once it has been completed.
- If you take an unscheduled break at any time, your testing time will not stop.
Upon re-entering the testing room, you must end your break as soon as you return to your seat. Once you press END BREAK, you can write on your noteboard. If you write on your noteboard during an accommodation break or before you press END BREAK, the proctor may remove the noteboard and give you a new, clean, blank board.
Outside guests are not allowed in the testing center at any time.
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