MCAT® Testing Center Regulations and Procedures

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Ensuring the authenticity and validity of test scores is a primary concern of all testing programs. Providing uniform testing procedures and maintaining test security serves the interest of examinees and test score users.

In order to provide fair and secure testing conditions for all examinees, the staff at each testing center will follow common procedures, and all examinees are required to comply with the regulations and procedures in the MCAT® Essentials (Test Day Rules section)  and the AAMC Candidate Rules Agreement.

Be sure to review the list of what you can and can't bring into the test center before your exam day:

You may bring and

store in your locker...

You may not bring...

You may not access or

use on any break...

Food and/or drink Notes, test prep pages, review books Notes, test prep pages, review books
Medicine Tablets, laptops Cell phone
Personal hygiene items Earbuds, headphones Backpack or purse
Cell phone - must be sealed in the bag provided Visitors Any vehicle
    Any electronic devices (tablet, laptop, watch)

Cell phone may not be removed from the sealed storage bag until AFTER you complete your exam. The test center administrator must be the one to open the phone bag for you.

If you need to access items from a backpack or purse you must ask the test center staff before doing so.

Failure to Comply

All violations associated with the MCAT exam are thoroughly investigated.  Consequences for committing a violation or failure to comply with test day rules and regulations range from a warning to a letter sent to legitimately interested parties involved in your future medical school application process.  Please visit the Policies and Procedures for Investigating Reported Violations of Admission and Enrollment Standards for more information.

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Contact the MCAT® Program

Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. ET Closed Wednesday, 3-5 p.m. ET

Online Contact Form

202-828-0600
MCAT Security Tip Line

The MCAT program considers the integrity and security of the exam process to be very important. If you observe any irregular behavior or exam security violations before, during, or after an examination, please call or email the MCAT Security tip line. If you choose to remain anonymous, the AAMC will not disclose your identity unless required by law. Submit a tip anonymously

202-903-0840
MCAT Essentials

Read the MCAT Essentials for Testing Year 2023.

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