Average MCAT Score for Medical School: What You Really Need in 2025

If you’re preparing for the MCAT, one of the biggest questions on your mind is probably this: What MCAT score do I actually need to get into medical school? You’ve probably heard that medical schools are getting more competitive each year, but what does that really mean in numbers?

In this post, we’ll break down the average MCAT score for medical school applicants and matriculants in 2025, what’s considered a competitive score, and how to set your own target score based on your goals. Plus, we’ll share how to use your preparation time wisely so you can land above the average and strengthen your application overall.

Understanding How the MCAT Is Scored

Before looking at averages, it’s important to understand how the MCAT scoring system works.
The MCAT is made up of four sections, each scored between 118 and 132:

1. Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
   
2. Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
   
3. Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
   
4. Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
   

The total score ranges from 472 to 528, with 500 representing the midpoint. However, most successful medical school applicants score well above 500.

Average MCAT Score for Medical School in 2025

As of 2025, the average MCAT score for all test-takers hovers around 501.5, while the average score for medical school matriculants (those who actually get accepted) is approximately 511.9.

The data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) shows a clear progression in average MCAT scores, starting from all test-takers up through those who are ultimately accepted into medical school.

The mean score for All Test Takers is in the range of 501–502. This baseline represents all individuals who took the MCAT exam, regardless of whether they applied to medical school.

For those who move forward and become Applicants to medical school, the average MCAT score rises to 506. This jump reflects the self-selection process, as individuals with higher scores are more likely to submit applications.

Finally, the average MCAT score for Matriculants (those who are accepted and enroll in medical school) is the highest, falling between 511 and 512. This is a significant increase from the applicant average and underscores the competitive nature of gaining acceptance into medical education programs.

This means the average accepted student scores roughly 10 points higher than the average test-taker.

What Counts as a Competitive MCAT Score?

A “competitive” MCAT score depends heavily on the type of medical school you’re applying to:

• Top-Tier MD Programs: 515+
  
• Mid-Tier MD Programs: 510–514
  
• DO (Osteopathic) Programs: 505–510
  
• Caribbean or International Schools: 500–505
  

Keep in mind that a “competitive” score isn’t the same as a “cutoff.” Some applicants with slightly lower scores still get accepted because of strong GPAs, meaningful extracurriculars, or standout personal statements. But generally, the higher your MCAT, the more flexibility you have in choosing schools.

How to Set a Realistic Target Score

Instead of obsessing over national averages, focus on what you need based on your goals. Here’s how to find your personal target:

1. Research the Schools You’re Interested In.
   Look up the median MCAT scores of accepted students at your target schools. Many publish this data on their admissions websites.
   
2. Aim 2–3 Points Above the Median.
   This gives you a cushion and shows schools you’re academically prepared.
   
3. Balance with Your GPA.
   If your GPA is below the average of accepted students, you may need a slightly higher MCAT score to balance it out.
   
4. Be Realistic About Time and Preparation.
   Don’t rush to hit a number if you haven’t built the foundation. A thoughtful study plan matters more than raw ambition.
   

Why the MCAT Matters So Much

The MCAT isn’t just another standardized test — it’s designed to evaluate how well you can think like a medical student. Schools use it to predict academic performance during the first year of med school.

That’s why many admissions committees view the MCAT as the great equalizer. Whether you went to a small state college or a major university, your MCAT score shows how well you can handle complex, science-based material under pressure.

Even more, it’s one of the few numbers that carries significant weight in admissions decisions, alongside your GPA. Together, they provide an objective measure that helps schools evaluate thousands of applicants consistently.

How to Beat the Average MCAT Score

If your goal is to go beyond average, you’ll need a preparation strategy that focuses on efficiency and comprehension rather than brute force memorization. Here are a few practical steps:

1. Start Early

Give yourself at least 4–6 months to prepare. Cramming for the MCAT doesn’t work. The test is designed to evaluate long-term understanding and reasoning, not short-term memory.

2. Use Active Learning Techniques

Don’t just reread notes or highlight textbooks. Instead, use flashcards (like Anki), question banks (UWorld, AAMC), and full-length practice exams to apply concepts repeatedly.

3. Track and Review Weak Areas

Your improvement depends on how quickly you identify patterns in your mistakes. Keep a “mistake log” for every practice test you take.

4. Prioritize High-Yield Topics

Focus on areas that show up most frequently: biochemistry, physiology, and psychology/sociology. Don’t overinvest time in obscure details.

5. Simulate Real Test Conditions

Take full-length practice exams under strict timing and with minimal breaks. Familiarity with testing endurance is key to performing well on the real thing.

MCAT Averages Don’t Tell the Whole Story

While average MCAT scores can give you perspective, they don’t define your chances. Admissions committees consider a holistic view of every applicant — including GPA, personal statement, letters of recommendation, research, volunteering, and life experience.

So, if your MCAT score ends up a few points below the average, don’t panic. Many successful medical students started there but compensated with strong applications and upward academic trends.

Focus on Your Growth, Not Just the Numbers

The average MCAT score for medical school in 2025 gives you a benchmark — not a limit. What matters most is how you prepare, learn, and improve over time.

If you’re aiming to build a smarter, more efficient MCAT study plan tailored to your strengths and schedule, MedSchoolBro can help. Our mentors have guided countless premed students to boost their scores, balance their GPAs, and get accepted into top schools.

Get started today at MedSchoolBro.com and take the first step toward your best MCAT score yet.