MCAT for International Students

Home • MCAT for International Students

MCAT for International Students: Everything You Need to Know

For international students aspiring to attend medical school in the United States or Canada, the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a crucial step in the admissions process. While the exam content and format are the same for everyone, international applicants face a unique set of considerations, including test center availability, visa logistics, application systems, and academic requirements. This page is your comprehensive guide to navigating the MCAT as an international student.

Can International Students Take the MCAT?

Yes! International students are eligible to take the MCAT as long as they plan to apply to a health professions program that accepts MCAT scores. This includes MD and DO programs in the U.S. and Canada, and in some cases, programs in the Caribbean, Australia, and beyond. There are no citizenship or residency restrictions, but you must register through the AAMC and choose a valid testing location. The MCAT is administered in select international test centers multiple times per year.

Where Can You Take the MCAT Outside the U.S.?

The MCAT is offered at authorized Pearson VUE test centers around the world. Countries that typically host MCAT test dates include:

The standard registration fee is $345. If you qualify for the Fee Assistance Program (FAP), your registration fee will be reduced to $140. If you choose to test outside the U.S., Canada, or U.S. territories, an extra $120 international testing fee will be added to your total cost. This international fee is non-refundable, even if you cancel your exam.

United Kingdom
Australia
Germany
Japan
Singapore
South Africa
India
Qatar
Lebanon
China (Hong Kong)
Taiwan
Thailand
France
Turkey
Israel

Note: Availability may vary each year. Register early. International seats fill up quickly.

When Are International Test Dates Available?

Test dates for international locations are generally aligned with the U.S. MCAT schedule but with fewer total administrations. Exams are usually offered from January through September. Some countries only offer 2–4 test dates per year, so planning ahead is essential.

You can find the full international MCAT testing calendar on the AAMC website:
AAMC International Test Calendar

MCAT Fees for International Students

International students pay the same base fee as U.S. test-takers, plus an additional international testing fee (currently $120 USD). Here’s a breakdown:

Fee Type	Amount (USD)
MCAT Registration	$335
International Fee	$120
Total Cost	$455

There may also be rescheduling or cancellation fees depending on how close to your test date you make changes.

Do International Students Need to Take the MCAT?

Yes! If you are applying to most U.S. or Canadian allopathic (MD) or osteopathic (DO) medical schools, the MCAT is a required component of your application.

However, it is important to know that: Caribbean and Australian medical schools often accept MCAT scores but may not require them. Some Canadian medical schools may exempt Canadian citizens from MCAT requirements (varies by province). European or international medical schools generally do not require the MCAT, unless they are U.S. based programs. Always check the admission requirements of your target schools.

How Do International Students Apply to Medical School?

International applicants to U.S. medical schools typically use:

AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) for MD schools
AACOMAS (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service) for DO schools

If you are applying to osteopathic programs, make sure to release your MCAT scores to AACOMAS manually through the AAMC’s system.

AMCAS will automatically receive and include your MCAT scores once they are released.

Special Permission for International MCAT Registration

If you are not currently enrolled in or applying to a U.S., Canadian, or other health professions program that requires the MCAT, you may need special permission from the AAMC to register for the exam.

This applies particularly if:

You are not applying during the current cycle
You are not enrolled in a traditional undergraduate program
You are using the MCAT for non-traditional purposes, such as admissions into non-U.S. programs or research

How to Request Permission:

You must submit a request form through the AAMC’s online system
The request must include your reason for taking the MCAT, any supporting documentation, and a valid ID

Requests are reviewed individually and can take up to 2 weeks, so plan accordingly. You will not be able to register for the MCAT until your request is approved. Make sure you apply for permission well before your intended registration date.

For official information and instructions, visit the AAMC’s guidelines:
MCAT Special Permission Info

MCAT Scores and What They Mean for International Students

The MCAT is scored on a scale of 472 to 528, with the average test-taker scoring around 500. Each of the four sections is scored from 118 to 132, and medical schools consider both your total score and section breakdown.

For international students, a competitive score is often higher than what is considered competitive for U.S. applicants, especially if you are applying without a U.S. undergraduate degree.

Extra Challenges for International Students

As an international applicant, you may face several unique hurdles, including credential evaluation. Many schools prefer or require some coursework completed at a U.S. or Canadian institution. You may also face financial aid restrictions since U.S. federal aid is not available to non-citizens. Applicants may be asked to prove English proficiency. Although the MCAT is in English, you may also need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores for certain schools. And last but not least, visa planning. If accepted, you will need to obtain a student visa (usually F-1).

Need help applying to medical school as an international student? Schedule a session with one of our application advisors here.

Profile

Profile

MCAT for International Students