Can you talk during MCAT breaks?

Yes, you can talk during MCAT breaks with other test-takers for a mental break, but you absolutely cannot discuss anything related to the test content, questions, or the MCAT in general, as this violates AAMC rules and can lead to serious consequences, though most people chat about life or post-exam plans. It's best to keep conversations light, use the time to eat/stretch, and avoid interacting with others if they are trying to stay quiet.

Can you talk during a MCAT break?

17. You may not leave the test center or designated area during any breaks. You may not leave the building; access your vehicle; access study materials, phones, or other digital devices; or speak with anyone.

What is allowed during MCAT breaks?

During your scheduled breaks, you may access only food, water, and medication. All break policies are outlined in the MCAT® Essentials and Testing Center Regulations and Procedures, which you are required to read.

Can you use your phone during a MCAT lunch break?

You will not access any written materials, electronic devices, cell phones, or other unauthorized items at any point during today's MCAT administration which includes any scheduled or unscheduled breaks.

Can you walk around during MCAT breaks?

Take a Walk

A short 10-minute walk is one of the best and easiest MCAT study break options.

How To Break an MCAT Plateau and Raise Your MCAT Scores

Is 491 a bad MCAT score?

Yes, a 491 on the MCAT is generally considered a low or below-average score, placing you in the lower percentiles (around the 20th percentile), far from the average score of 501 and the competitive range of 511+, making admission to most MD programs very difficult, though it might be considered for some DO programs or with extraordinary supporting qualifications like a high GPA or extensive research, and it's often a strong signal to retake the exam for most applicants.
 

How rare is a 525 MCAT?

A 525 MCAT score is extremely rare and exceptional, placing you in the top 1% (100th percentile) of test-takers, just three points shy of a perfect 528, making you a top-tier applicant highly competitive for even the most selective medical schools. While exact numbers vary, only a tiny fraction of test-takers (around 1 in 450 or less) achieve scores of 525+, signifying mastery of the material. 

What is a 78% on the MCAT?

A 78% on the MCAT generally translates to a total score of 510, placing you in the 78th percentile, meaning you scored better than 78% of test-takers, which is a strong, competitive score for many medical schools, often above average for MD programs. While not in the highest tiers (like 90th percentile+), it's a very solid score that makes you competitive, especially when combined with a strong GPA and experiences. 

Is there time to eat during 10 minute breaks on MCAT?

During the break, you are only allowed to access food, water, and your medications. Be mindful of the time during your breaks: you have to check-in and return to your seat in the allotted time, or the test will resume without you.

Why is 472 the lowest MCAT score?

The MCAT score of 472 is the lowest because it's the sum of the minimum possible score (118) in each of the four sections, creating a floor for the 472-528 total score range, which is designed around a 500 average to emphasize the middle performance, meaning 472 represents the bottom of the score distribution (less than 1st percentile), making scores much lower practically nonexistent or statistically irrelevant for medical school admissions. 

What is 90% correct on MCAT?

Getting 90% correct on the MCAT usually translates to a score in the 90th percentile (around 515+ total), meaning you scored better than 90% of test-takers, with scores of 128-130 per section, though exact raw scores vary by section difficulty and test date due to statistical equating. Achieving this means answering most questions correctly, often around 44-48 questions per section, placing you as a very competitive applicant for medical school. 

Is there always 9 passages in cars?

There are a total of nine passages in the CARS section, each with five to seven questions directly associated with them. You'll have 90 minutes to answer a total of 53 questions.

Can I chew gum during the MCAT?

Water, just like food and gum, will be stored in a locker in the waiting room, and none of these items can be brought into the actual testing room. Therefore, while you are taking an MCAT section, you will not be able to drink water.

What score is a 70% on the MCAT?

A 70th percentile on the MCAT means you scored better than 70% of test-takers, which generally translates to a total score around 507-508, placing you in a competitive range for MD medical school admissions, though specific school averages vary. Your actual score might differ slightly as percentiles shift, but this score is strong, showing solid performance above the average (around 500).
 

Is 490 a bad MCAT score?

The answer depends on several factors including what type of medical school (MD vs DO vs Canadian) you're interested in, and most importantly, your individual section scores. Attaining a score of 490 on the MCAT® means you performed in the 20% percentile. An even distribution for the section scores is preferred.

Do you get bathroom breaks during MCAT?

You may also leave the testing room during the break to access food, drink, or medicines, or to use the restroom. The remaining time from a section you finished early or a skipped break will not carry over to the next section of the exam.

What is a top 1% MCAT score?

A top 1% MCAT score generally starts around 517-518+, with the highest percentile being the perfect 528, but scores in the low 520s (like 521-522) already put you in the 98th percentile or above, meaning you're scoring better than nearly everyone else and firmly in that elite tier for top medical schools, though a 528 is statistically extremely rare.
 

Is 515 worth retaking?

Bottom line: If you scored 498 or below, I definitely recommend retaking the MCAT. If you scored 499-505 your first time, you should probably retake the MCAT. If you scored 506-511, you may not need to retake, but you could if you know you'd score much higher — especially if you're applying to Ivy League schools.

Who took the MCAT 7 times?

Andy took the MCAT exam seven times and applied to medical school twice before getting one interview and acceptance. He reminds premeds to have faith in themselves and that perseverance and grit are important for a career in medicine.

What is the Harvard MCAT score?

For Harvard Medical School (HMS), the average MCAT score for admitted students is extremely high, typically around 520-521, with most successful applicants scoring well above 512, often in the 515-528 range, though Harvard doesn't have a minimum score but expects exceptional academic performance, making scores like 520+ highly competitive. 

What is a realistic MCAT score?

A good MCAT score is generally considered to be 511 or higher, with no section score below 127. The MCAT, also known as the Medical College Admission Test, is a computer-based standardized exam designed to assess your potential as a medical student and doctor.

Can I get into med school with a 495 MCAT?

Scores between 490–500 fall on the lower end for both MD and DO schools. Below 490 is unlikely to be competitive at accredited U.S. or Canadian schools.

What not to bring to MCAT?

Lastly, the AAMC has policies on specifically what NOT to bring:

• Notes, test prep materials, or review books.
• Tablet, laptop.
• Earbuds, headphones.
• Visitors.

Is the MCAT always at 8am?

2026 MCAT Test Dates & Score Releases

* All MCAT exams begin at 8:00 a.m. local time.

Can I wear jewelry for the MCAT?

You will be asked to remove jewelry and watches and to empty your pockets before entering the room. The testing center will provide storage for your personal items. You may bring in eyeglasses, hand sanitizer, and a photo ID. The testing center will provide earplugs, a fine-point marker, and a noteboard booklet.