The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is scored on a scale from 472 to 528, with 500 representing the 50th percentile. Understanding what score you need depends on which tier of medical schools you are targeting.
MCAT Score Breakdown
The MCAT has four sections, each scored 118–132: Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys), Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS), Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/Biochem), and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc). Your total score is the sum of all four sections.
2025 National Averages
For the 2025 application cycle, the average total MCAT score of all medical school matriculants was 511.8. Matriculants at the most selective programs averaged significantly higher — Harvard HMS averages approximately 522, Johns Hopkins approximately 522, and UCSF approximately 517.
Score Benchmarks by Program Type
Top 10 MD programs: 518–524 average for matriculants. A 515 is considered below average for these programs.
Mid-tier MD programs: 508–514 is competitive. A 510 with a strong overall application is a viable target for programs ranked 30–80.
DO programs: Average matriculant scores are approximately 504–506. A 507+ is competitive for most DO programs.
Public in-state MD programs: Often have lower effective cutoffs for in-state residents. Check MSAR data for individual state schools.
The Section Score Question
Medical schools look at both total score and section scores. A 512 earned with relatively even section scores (128/126/129/129) is viewed more favorably than a 512 with a major weakness in one section (130/118/130/134). CARS is particularly scrutinized — low CARS scores concern admissions committees because it predicts difficulty with boards and clinical communication.
How Many Times Should You Retake?
If your score is below your target range, a single retake with dedicated preparation (3–6 more months of focused study) is generally viewed neutrally by admissions committees. Multiple retakes (3+) require a compelling improvement narrative. Improve by at least 3–5 points before retaking — submitting the same score twice is rarely beneficial.