MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a computer-based examination that started in the year 1928. The examination is administrated by the American Association of Medical Colleges. The purpose is to provide admissions to medical students in the US, Australia, Canada, and the Caribbean Islands. The exam tests the physical sciences, biological sciences, and verbal reasoning. It invites only undergraduate students from an MBBS degree. The MCAT exam tests candidates on the skills and knowledge that medical educators, physicians, medical students, and residents have identified as key prerequisites for success in medical school and practicing medicine.
Eligibility | Exam Pattern | Syllabus | Tips and Tricks | Take Free Mock Test
MCAT Exam: Eligibility Criteria
Must possess a degree in MBBS.
MCAT Exam Pattern:
The exam timing is actually 7 hours 30 mins with breaks into a total of 6 hours 15 minutes for the test. It is a computer-based examination with 221 multiple-choice questions. It consists of the following sections:
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behaviour
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
There is a negative marking for incorrect answers. The MCAT score lies on a range of 472-528 and the Sectional score range is between 118-132.
MCAT Exam: Syllabus
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems-
bioenergetics and fuel metabolism
cells/molecule assembly in single/multi-cell organisms
protein structures and amino acids as building blocks
genetic transmission of information: gene to protein
heredity and the processes that enhance genetic diversity
prokaryotes and viruses: structure, physiology, and genetics
cell division
nervous and endocrine systems
organ systems: functions and structure
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems-
work, energy, forces, equilibrium in living systems
the role of fluids in blood circulation and gas exchange
electrochemistry
interaction of light and sound with matter
nuclear decay and chemical behavior of atoms
water: nature and solutions
molecules and the interaction among them
the concept of purification
function and structure of biological molecules
kinetics and thermodynamic principles
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behaviour
environment sensing and understanding
response to the world
causes of behavioral change
effects of social activity on human behavior
distinctive behaviors
identity & the concept of self
the social line of thought and interactions
social imbalance
understanding of the social fabric
demographic systems
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills-
Test comprehension,
analysis, and reasoning skills; Include content from ethics, philosophy,
studies of diverse cultures,
population health,
social sciences and humanities disciplines
economics/history/geography
anthropology
linguistics
psychology and sociology
archaeology
political science
Tips and Tricks for the MCAT Exam:
Candidates must attempt questions carefully, as there is negative marking as well.
AAMC provides video lectures and online tutorials for the exam, the candidate should go through the preparation material provided by them.
The books are recommended for the preparation by AAMC on their official website.
Candidates must revise their concepts thoroughly.
Candidates must have knowledge of medical terms.
Take online mock tests to know your strengths and weaknesses.
Candidates must practice placement papers and mock tests to prepare well.
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