MCAT Score Calculator
Calculate MCAT total scores and percentile rankings using official AAMC methodology
MCAT Total Score Calculator
Enter Your Four Section Scores (118-132 each):
What is MCAT Scoring?
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is scored on a 472-528 scale, with your score determining admission likelihood to medical schools and scholarship eligibility. Developed by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the MCAT is the standardized exam used by virtually all medical schools in the United States for admissions decisions.
Your MCAT score comprises four independent section scores, each ranging from 118 to 132. The four sections are: Chemical & Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (59 questions), Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) (53 questions), Biological & Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (59 questions), and Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations of Behavior (59 questions). Your raw score for each section is converted to a scaled score (118-132) through equating, and these four scores are summed to create your total MCAT score (472-528).
Importantly, there is no penalty for incorrect answers or blank responses on the MCAT. Your raw score is simply the number of questions answered correctly, so you should attempt all 230 questions. The median MCAT score is approximately 500, representing the 50th percentile.
The AAMC uses an equating process to ensure that scores remain consistent and comparable across different test administrations, accounting for minor variations in test difficulty. This ensures that a score earned in January is equivalent in meaning to the same score earned in July, despite potential differences in the specific questions asked.
MCAT Scoring Formulae
Total MCAT Score Formula
Total MCAT Score = Chem/Phys + CARS + Bio/Biochem + Psych/Social
Each section scored 118-132, total ranges 472-528
Section Scaled Score Conversion
Scaled Section Score = 118 + (Raw Score × Conversion Factor)
Conversion factor determined by AAMC equating process
Percentile Ranking Formula
Percentile = (Test-Takers Below Your Score ÷ Total Test-Takers) × 100
Range: 1-99 (percentage of test-takers you performed better than)
How This Calculator Works
Total Score Calculator
Input your four section scaled scores (118-132 each) and instantly calculates your total MCAT score (472-528) and estimates your percentile ranking based on official AAMC percentile data.
Section Score Estimator
Enter the number of questions you answered correctly in each section and the calculator estimates your scaled section scores using typical AAMC conversion patterns. Note that exact conversions may vary slightly based on equating.
Important: These are estimates based on typical AAMC conversions. Your official scores depend on the specific equating applied by AAMC to your test date.
Uses of MCAT Scores
Medical School Admissions: Your MCAT score is critical to medical school admission decisions alongside GPA. Schools use it to evaluate academic preparation and predict medical school success. Top-20 medical schools typically have median MCAT scores of 515+.
Merit Scholarships: Medical schools award substantial merit scholarships based on MCAT and GPA combinations. Strong scores (515+) often qualify students for full tuition scholarships and additional financial awards.
Program Rankings: Medical school US News rankings are influenced by median MCAT scores of admitted students, making your score relevant to school prestige and residency program outcomes.
Career Prospects: Graduates from higher-ranked schools (which correlate with higher median MCAT scores) often have better residency placement outcomes and career opportunities in competitive specialties.
How to Use This Calculator
Total Score Calculator
1. Click the "Total Score" tab. 2. Enter your scaled score for each section (118-132). 3. Click "Calculate Total Score." 4. Your total MCAT score and percentile ranking display instantly.
Section Score Estimator
1. Click the "Section Scores" tab. 2. Enter the number of correct answers for each section. 3. Click "Calculate Section Scores." 4. Estimated section scaled scores (118-132) and total score display.
Pro Tips: Use these calculators during MCAT prep to track progress. Set target scores aligned with your medical school goals. Research your target schools' median MCAT scores. Use official AAMC practice exams for most accurate predictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good MCAT score for medical school?
Good scores depend on target schools: 500+ is competitive for average schools, 510+ for selective schools, 515+ for top-20 schools. Research your specific targets for accurate benchmarks.
How many total questions are on the MCAT?
The MCAT has 230 total scored questions: 59 in Chemistry & Physics, 53 in CARS, 59 in Biology & Biochemistry, and 59 in Psychology & Social.
Is there penalty for wrong answers on MCAT?
No penalty exists. Your raw score counts only correct answers. Attempt all questions strategically.
Can I retake the MCAT?
Yes, you can retake. Most schools accept your highest score. Multiple attempts (more than 3-4) may raise concerns for some schools.
How long are MCAT scores valid?
MCAT scores are valid for three years from your test date. Most medical schools require recent scores. Older scores may be considered with explanations.
Official Sources & References
This calculator uses methodology from official AAMC sources:
-
MCAT Exam Score Scale - Official AAMC
Official Score Scale Information -
How is the MCAT Exam Scored?
Official Scoring Methodology -
Association of American Medical Colleges
AAMC Official Website
About the Author
This calculator was developed by Adam, an educational technology specialist dedicated to creating accurate, accessible tools for medical school applicants and test preparation.
Visit Author Profile