How Many Times Can You Take the MCAT and Still Get Into Med School

If you’ve ever wondered how many times can you take the MCAT, you’re not alone. Many students find themselves debating whether to retake the exam after an unsatisfactory score.
The AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) has clear rules on this:

• You can take the MCAT up to 3 times in a single testing year
  
• Up to 4 times over two consecutive years
  
• Up to 7 times in your lifetime
  

Each attempt—whether you finish the test or void it—counts toward your total limit. That means every registration is valuable, and it’s important to make each attempt count.

How Do Medical Schools View Multiple MCAT Attempts?

Taking the MCAT more than once is fairly common, but how schools interpret that depends on your performance trend. Here’s how admissions committees generally look at multiple attempts:

• Improving scores show determination and growth, which can work in your favor.
  
• Flat or declining scores might raise concerns about test readiness or study approach.
  
• Some schools average scores, while others consider your highest—policies vary.
  

In short, retaking the MCAT isn’t automatically bad. The key is to show progress and a thoughtful strategy for improvement, not random repetition.

When Should You Retake the MCAT?

Knowing when to retake is as important as knowing how many times you can take the MCAT. You should only consider another attempt if:

• Your score is below your target range for your preferred schools.
  
• You’ve identified specific weak areas that you can realistically improve.
  
• You have enough time to study effectively before your next test date.
  

A retake should never be a knee-jerk reaction. If your first score is close to the median of your target programs, it might be better to focus on strengthening other areas of your application like clinical hours, research, or your personal statement.

How to Prepare Differently for Your Next MCAT Attempt

If you decide to retake, your approach has to change. Doing the same thing twice rarely yields better results. Here’s how to prepare smarter:

• Review your previous performance: Identify which sections (CARS, Chem/Phys, Bio/Biochem, Psych/Soc) held you back.
  
• Use new study materials: Avoid relying on the same prep books or question banks you’ve already memorized.
  
• Take full-length practice exams: Simulate the real testing environment to build stamina and timing.
  
• Study consistently: A disciplined schedule—rather than last-minute cramming—is the biggest difference-maker.
  
• Track progress: Use score trackers or analytics from practice exams to measure improvements.
  

Remember, your second (or third) attempt should feel different—more structured, more strategic, and more confident.

How Many MCAT Attempts Is Too Many?

While the AAMC allows up to seven attempts, taking the MCAT that many times is not ideal. Most successful applicants take it no more than two or three times.
Multiple retakes can raise questions with admissions committees about readiness, learning habits, or self-awareness.

That said, one or two retakes—especially with a clear upward trend—won’t hurt your chances. It’s the pattern that matters. Schools want to see that you learned from your previous experience and applied that insight.

What to Do If You’re Not Satisfied With Your Score

If your score isn’t competitive yet, don’t rush into another registration. Instead:

1. Reassess your study methods. Are you truly understanding concepts or just memorizing them?
   
2. Take a break before restarting. Mental fatigue can make retakes harder.
   
3. Consider tutoring or a prep course. Structured guidance can help you fix blind spots.
   
4. Talk to successful test-takers or mentors. Learn how others improved their scores.
   

Sometimes, patience and reflection between attempts can make a dramatic difference in results.

How to Decide Between Retaking or Applying Now

If your MCAT score is borderline, you may face a difficult choice: apply now or retake later.
Here’s a quick guide:

Apply now if:

• Your score is within or just slightly below the average range for your target schools.
  
• The rest of your application (GPA, clinical experience, recommendations) is strong.
  

Retake later if:

• Your score is far below most school medians.
  
• You believe a 3–4 point increase could move you into a higher percentile bracket.
  

Your decision should balance ambition with realism. Sometimes, timing your application right is just as critical as achieving a perfect score.

How to Stay Motivated After Multiple Attempts

Retaking a major exam can feel discouraging—but perspective is key. The MCAT is a challenging test by design, and persistence often pays off. Here’s how to stay positive and productive:

• Remind yourself why you’re doing this. Your end goal—a medical career—is worth the effort.
  
• Track small improvements. Even minor percentile jumps mean you’re progressing.
  
• Find a study community. Shared accountability can prevent burnout.
  
• Avoid comparing yourself to others. Everyone’s timeline is different.
  

With the right mindset, each attempt becomes a stepping stone, not a setback.

Final Thoughts

So, how many times can you take the MCAT and still get into med school? Technically up to seven—but success comes down to strategy, not the number of tries. Plan wisely, study efficiently, and show clear improvement with every attempt.

Use the Complete MCAT Bundle from MedSchoolBro to prepare smarter, identify your weak spots, and maximize your next score. With the right tools and a focused plan, your next attempt can be your best yet.