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MCAT Eligibility Criteria 2024: Nationality, Qualification, Special Permission

MCAT Eligibility Criteria 2024: Nationality, Qualification, Special Permission

Edited By Stuti Jain | Updated on Aug 01, 2024 05:57 PM IST | #MCAT

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMA) specifies the MCAT exam eligibility criteria 2024 for the candidates who want to appear in the medical college admission test. AAMA decides the MCAT criteria for both US and international students, including those who wish to give the exam in India. MCAT full form is Medical College Admission Test, applicants who wish to join a health profession program in any college or institute that accepts the MCAT score must take the test. International candidates who have an MBBS degree appear for the exam as they fulfil MCAT exam requirements and do not require any special permission. This is an important aspect of the MCAT eligibility for Indian students. Read further to know more about details of MCAT exam eligibility criteria and other related information.

MCAT Eligibility Criteria 2024: Nationality, Qualification, Special Permission
MCAT Eligibility Criteria 2024: Nationality, Qualification, Special Permission

MCAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2024

Can anyone take the MCAT? MCAT eligibility for international students differs for North America students and non-American international students. One reason for this is that MBBS in USA is different from rest of the world. Unlike in other countries, completing PG degree in Medicine is important to practice as a physician in USA. So MCAT eligibility for Indian students requires them to be either in the final year of MBBS or completed MBBS. Successfully clearing MCAT opens doorways for admission to top Medical schools in USA, Canada, Australia, etc.

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MCAT Eligibility for Indian Students

Nationality

Eligibility

The US, Canada

Undergraduate degree

International aspirants

Pursuing or completing MBBS or special request

MCAT Exam Eligibility Programmes

Candidates can appear in MCAT test if they want to take admission to the medical colleges who accept the MCAT scores to study the following courses.

  • MD programme

  • DO programme

  • Podiatric Medicine (DPM) programme

  • Veterinary Medicine (DVM) programme

  • Any other health-related programme that accept MCAT scores to meet a test score admissions requirement

MCAT Complete Guide
Candidates can check MCAT exam's eligibility criteria, registration, syllabus, pattern, scores and dates here.
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MCAT Eligibility for International Students

  • Requirements for MCAT exam requires an MBBS degree for international students.

  • No additional eligibility for MCAT test is required to be fulfilled by international candidates.

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There is no MCAT age limit for international students. Anyone of any age can write the exam, without violating MCAT requirements. However, furnishing proper reason at the time of registration is mandated by AAMC.

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For those who do not meet MCAT Exam Eligibility:

Those who do not meet the MCAT exam eligibility criteria must take special permission before taking the test. Candidates need to take special permission in the following situations:

  1. If the applicant wants to take the test for any other reason apart from applying for admission to a health professions program, provided they fulfil MCAT exam eligibility for Indian students.

  2. If the candidate has already got admission to a medical school and wants to change the school.

  3. If the candidate does not have any disabilities but is not able to comply with the AAMC testing procedures.

How to Take Special Permission for MCAT?

To get special permission, the candidates must have an AAMC ID. To do this, the candidates must fill up the personal information section and then submit an online service request from the MCAT registration system dashboard. It is better that candidates can fill in as many details as they can in the form. Once it receives the form, the conducting body will review the application and respond within five working days.

What Happens if Special Permission is Not Taken?

If the candidate fails to get the special permission, his appointment may be cancelled, the AAMC could investigate his case and he can even face a ban from taking the MCAT for a given period or even permanently.

Are International Applicants Required to Take Special Permission?

If international candidates meet all the MCAT requirements, they will not be required to take any kind of special permission for appearing in the examination. This includes MCAT eligibility for Indian students as well.

MCAT Exam Eligibility - Number of Attempts

If you wish to give the test more than once, you must follow these restrictions:

  • You can have only one MCAT exam appointment at a time.
  • You cannot give the exam more than three times in a testing year.
  • You cannot give the exam more than four times over two consecutive testing years.
  • You cannot attempt the exam more than seven (7) times in your life

MCAT Registration 2024

MCAT Eligible candidates can register online for the MCAT test. In order to register, the candidates must create an AAMC ID on the official website of the MCAT. In order to create the AAMC ID the candidate should provide details like name, date of birth, email ID, gender and educational qualification. After creating the AAMC ID, candidates will need to log in to the MCAT registration system and create their complete profile. The profile can be created by providing personal information, biographical information, educational qualifications etc. After this, the test can be scheduled by selecting the test date and test centre.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for the MCAT exam?

Candidates who want to attend a health professional school, which includes Allopathic, Osteopathic, Podiatric, and Veterinary Medicine, are required to take the MCAT exam. Those who have completed (or are pursuing) an MBBS degree are not required to have a special authorisation to sit for the exam. International students and undergraduates can also take the exam if they wish to apply to medical schools.

2. Are the international candidates required to take the special permission for appearing in MCAT ?

No, if international candidates have fulfilled the MCAT eligibility criteria, they are not required to take any special permission.

3. How many times can I appear in MCAT in a lifetime?

You can appear in MCAT seven times in a lifetime. In addition to this, students are only allowed three attempts each year and four attempts in two consecutive years.

4. What is the latest MCAT date for the 2024 cycle?

The upcoming MCAT date for the 2024 cycle is September 12, 2024. Candidates are required to complete the MCAT registration before the exam date. Students can visit the official AAMC website to get detailed information regarding dates, registration, and other details.

5. What is the MCAT eligibility criteria regarding age?

There is no age limit for appearing in the MCAT. Anyone can write the exam. However they must mention the reason for giving the MCAT while applying for the exam.

6. What is the MCAT eligibility criteria for Indian students?

The MCAT criteria for Indian students is the same as that for international students. This includes that students must have completed at least 2 to 3 years of coursework in subjects such as biology, physics, chemistry, and others. 

7. Can I take the MCAT after 12th?

No, you cannot take the MCAT immediately after 12th grade. The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is designed for students preparing to enter medical school and usually requires those who have completed at least two to three years of undergraduate courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and other related fields of study.

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Questions related to MCAT

Have a question related to MCAT ?

Yes, you can give the MCAT exam even if you have a Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) degree. The MCAT is a standardized test used for admission to medical schools in the United States and Canada.

However, while a good MCAT score can be a significant factor in your application, it is not the only requirement. Medical schools also consider other factors such as your undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, research experience, and personal statement.

To increase your chances of admission, it is important to:

  • Achieve a high MCAT score: Aim for a competitive MCAT score.
  • Maintain a strong undergraduate GPA: A high GPA demonstrates academic excellence.
  • Gain relevant experience: Seek opportunities for research experience, clinical volunteering, or shadowing healthcare professionals.
  • Write a compelling personal statement: Highlight your motivation for pursuing medicine and your unique qualities.
  • Obtain strong letters of recommendation: Ask professors and mentors to write letters that highlight your strengths and potential.

It's also advisable to research the specific requirements of the medical schools you are interested in, as they may have additional criteria or preferences. While a BHMS degree is not a traditional pre-med requirement, a strong academic record and relevant experience can help you stand out in the competitive admissions process.

Yes, with a B.E. in Biomedical Engineering, you are eligible to take the MCAT exam. The MCAT does not require a specific undergraduate degree, but it's important to ensure you have completed the prerequisite courses in subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics. For tailored guidance on preparing for the MCAT and navigating the admissions process, Invicta Career Consultancy can provide valuable assistance and resources, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

If you plan to pursue a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field in Canada and then take the MCAT for admission to a Doctor of Medicine program at a Canadian university, you do not need to appear in NEET in India. NEET is required for medical school admissions in India, but it is not necessary for studying medicine in Canada. For personalized guidance and support tailored to your unique situation, you might find it beneficial to consult with Invicta Career Consultancy, which specializes in helping students gain admission to top universities abroad, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

No, both the MCAT and NEET exams are not necessary to study abroad. The exam you need depends on the country and the specific program you're applying to. For instance, if you're planning to pursue medical studies in Canada or the United States, you would need to take the MCAT. NEET is primarily for admission to medical colleges in India. For personalized advice on navigating the requirements for studying medicine abroad, consider consulting with Invicta Career Consultancy, which can provide tailored guidance based on your goals and circumstances, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

Hello Candidate,

Of course it can! Candidates interested in pursuing a BSc Neuroscience degree are exposed to extensive knowledge of neuroanatomy, neuropathology, and neurophysiology. Neuroscience is a cutting-edge technology that has completely transformed the modern world. It has gained popularity as a result of the impact of technological evolution. Neuroscience is concerned with the activities of the brain and the study of human nervous systems. It makes use of cutting-edge technology.

Mentioned below are the admission process

  • Each university has its own application process.
  • Candidates must apply for an entrance exam at certain universities, and if they meet the criteria, they are eligible for admission.
  • The entrance exam has a different syllabus for each university; candidates must score high enough in the entrance exam to be admitted to any BSc Neuroscience college.
  • Candidates must download the admission form on time and fill it out with all of the necessary information and documentation.
  • Candidates must stay on top of important date announcements.
  • Once universities have released the merit list, candidates must check in on time and complete the necessary steps before the deadline in order to be admitted.
  • Students should be aware of the deadlines when applying abroad.
  • Prepare all of the documents on time.
  • Prepare for entrance exams such as the TOEFL, IELTS, and others.
  • Students must have their documents authenticated.
  • Register for entrance exams online.
  • Attend the exam on the scheduled date.
  • Students must plan their visa appointments carefully.

Top universities to pursue B.Sc., Neuroscience are given below

1. Harvard University

2. University of Cambridge

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

4. University of Oxford

5. Stanford University

Be prepared for anything. All the Best!!! You can do more.

Thank You.

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