Why the MCAT Score Range Matters More Than Ever
The MCAT is one of the most decisive factors in U.S. and Canadian medical school admissions. With applications rising and seat numbers staying relatively stable, your position within the MCAT score range often determines which medical schools will seriously consider you.
Understanding how scoring works, what’s considered competitive, and how schools interpret your score range will help you build an application strategy that maximizes your chances of acceptance.
This guide breaks down the MCAT score range (472–528) in clear terms and shows how to interpret your score in today’s competitive admissions landscape.
What Is the MCAT Score Range? (Complete Breakdown)
The MCAT score range runs from 472 to 528, with each of the four sections scoring between 118 and 132. The midpoint of the MCAT score range is 500.
Here’s the scoring breakdown:
MCAT Score Range Overview
| Component | Lowest Score | Highest Score |
| Chemical & Physical Foundations | 118 | 132 |
| Critical Analysis & Reasoning (CARS) | 118 | 132 |
| Biological & Biochemical Foundations | 118 | 132 |
| Psychological & Social Foundations | 118 | 132 |
| Total MCAT Score Range | 472 | 528 |
The total score is a scaled score, not a raw score. AAMC uses a conversion method that ensures consistency across test dates.
MCAT Percentiles for the 2025 Cycle
While the MCAT score range is fixed, percentiles shift slightly each year:
| Total Score | Percentile Rank |
| 528 | 100th |
| 520 | 98th |
| 515 | 92nd |
| 510 | 80th |
| 505 | 67th |
| 500 | 50th |
| 490 | 20th |
| 472 | 1st |
What Is a Good MCAT Score in 2025?
Admissions committees often categorize scores within bands rather than treating every point equally.
MCAT Score Range Interpretation
| Score Range | Competitiveness | Summary |
| 520–528 | Exceptional | Competitive at any medical school (Harvard, Stanford, Yale) |
| 515–519 | Highly Competitive | Competitive at most MD schools |
| 510–514 | Competitive | Good for mid-tier MD and top DO programs |
| 505–509 | Above Average | Competitive for many DO and some MD schools |
| 500–504 | Average | Select DO schools; limited MD chances |
| 472–499 | Below Average | Typically requires retake |
From a strategy standpoint, students should aim for the highest MCAT score range they can realistically achieve within their preparation timeframe.
MCAT Score Ranges for U.S. MD Medical Schools
Medical schools fall into tiers, each with different score expectations.
Top-Tier MD Programs (Top 20)
Typical MCAT score range: 518–523
Examples:
- Harvard Medical School
- Stanford School of Medicine
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
These programs usually require MCAT scores in the top 2% of the entire MCAT score range.
Mid-Tier MD Programs
Typical MCAT score range: 511–516
Examples include:
- University of Colorado
- University of Maryland
- Ohio State University
- University of Cincinnati
Students in this range have a strong chance at many U.S. MD programs.
Lower-Tier & Mission-Driven MD Programs
Typical MCAT score range: 507–512
These medical schools emphasize:
- Holistic review
- Community service
- State residency
- Diversity initiatives
Examples:
- Wayne State University
- Florida State University
- East Virginia Medical School
MCAT Score Range for DO Schools
Osteopathic schools generally admit students with MCAT scores lower than MD programs.
Typical DO MCAT Score Range:
500–508
Examples:
- Touro University
- Nova Southeastern
- T. Still University
- Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine
Scores below 500 face challenges, but strong GPA + trend data may help.
Average MCAT Scores for Accepted Students
According to recent admissions cycles:
| Accepted Program Type | Avg MCAT |
| MD (Allopathic) | 511–512 |
| DO (Osteopathic) | 504–505 |
| Top 10 MD Schools | 520–522 |
How the MCAT Score Range Interacts With GPA
Admissions committees use a GPA–MCAT matrix that creates balance:
If your GPA is low (3.2–3.4)
You generally need an MCAT score range of 510–515 to remain competitive.
If your GPA is high (3.8–4.0)
A 507–509 may still be competitive at many mid-tier schools.
If both GPA and MCAT are low
Admissions experts recommend:
- Retaking the MCAT
- Post-baccalaureate coursework (DIY or formal program)
- A longer-term application strategy
How to Interpret Your MCAT Score for Application Strategy
MCAT 520+
Apply broadly, including top-10 schools.
MCAT 515–519
Strong applicant for top 20–50 schools.
MCAT 510–514
Target mid-tier MD and competitive DO schools.
MCAT 505–509
Solid for DO; selective MD options exist but limited.
MCAT < 500
Retake recommended for most students.
Improving Your MCAT Score Range Before Test Day
1. Build a 3-Phase Study Plan
- Content review (4–6 weeks)
- Practice + review (4–6 weeks)
- Full-length exams only (3–4 weeks)
2. Most Reliable MCAT Study Resources
- AAMC practice exams
- UWorld
- Blueprint
- Khan Academy (free)
- Examkrackers
3. Raise Your Score Section by Section
- CARS: practice daily for 60–90 minutes
- Bio/Biochem: focus on pathways, hormones, enzymes
- Psych/Soc: memorize definitions + relationships
- Chem/Phys: master formula sheet + unit conversions
4. Realistic Score Movement
Most students increase by 5–10 points with structured study over 12–16 weeks.
What Factors Influence Your Final MCAT Score Range?
- Quality of content review
- Number of full-length practice exams
- Sleep, burnout, and test anxiety
- Familiarity with AAMC question style
- Reading speed & endurance (especially CARS)
Real MCAT Score Range Examples
Case 1: Score 505
Competitive for DO schools; some MD schools if GPA is high.
Case 2: Score 512
Strong candidate for most MD schools.
Case 3: Score 520
Competitive at all medical schools in the U.S.
Expert Tips to Reach Your Target MCAT Score Range
- Use the AAMC question banks as your baseline
- Review every question you get wrong
- Don’t multitask during study sessions
- Simulate real test-day conditions
- Focus more on practice than content after month 1
Conclusion: Mastering the MCAT Score Range for Your Application Strategy
Understanding the MCAT score range is essential for choosing schools, setting MCAT targets, and building an application that gives you the best chance of acceptance. Whether you’re scoring in the average range or aiming for top-tier medical schools, strategy is everything.
With the right preparation plan—and a clear understanding of your score range—you can dramatically improve your odds of getting into medical school.
FAQs
1. What is the MCAT score range?
The MCAT score range is 472–528, with section scores from 118–132.
2. What is a good MCAT score?
A good MCAT score is typically 510 or higher.
3. What MCAT score range do I need for Harvard or Stanford?
Usually 518–523.
4. What is the minimum MCAT score for DO schools?
Typically 500–503.
5. How many times can I take the MCAT?
You may take it 3 times per year, 4 times in two years, and 7 times in your lifetime.
6. Are MCAT scores valid forever?
No. Most schools accept MCAT scores up to 2–3 years old.
7. Does a high MCAT score guarantee acceptance?
No, but it strongly increases your chances.
