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MCAT Syllabus 2024 - Check Section-wise Exam Syllabus & Pattern
Edited By Porishmita Paul | Updated on May 17, 2024 10:37 AM IST | #MCAT
MCAT Syllabus 2024: MCAT syllabus is composed of four major sections, namely, Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems, Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behaviour, and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills.
Conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the MCAT is a standardised test designed to evaluate the problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioural, and social science concepts and principles of a candidate required to study medicine.
The MCAT is a multiple-choice computer-based exam that tests the aspirant’s intuitive and critical thinking skills. Candidates who wish to apply for higher education in the field of medicine in the USA, Canada, and other study-abroad countries must qualify for the MCAT exam. Students are advised to start their MCAT preparation at least 3-6 months before the original test day to get a promising score.
MCAT: Sample Papers | Complete Guide
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MCAT, conducted multiple times in the year, can be taken in the USA, Canada, and a few other centres across the world. Read the complete article to understand the MCAT syllabus for Indian students and other related information.
MCAT Test Syllabus
The MCAT is a standardised computer-based test that assesses the candidate’s ability to solve complex problems, critical thinking, and knowledge prerequisite to the study of medicine. There are four main test sections of the MCAT syllabus for Indian students in 2024. There are four sections listed below:
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behaviour
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Note: The MCAT syllabus is the same for all backgrounds.
Also Check:
MCAT Paper Pattern
The duration of the MCAT exam in the MCAT exam pattern is 6 hours and 15 minutes and the total seated time is 7 hours and 30 minutes. The four sections of the MCAT exam syllabus cover a total of 472 to 528 marks. Candidates who wish to get admission to medical schools must know the paper pattern for the MCAT. Below are the sections in detail.
MCAT Paper Pattern Overview
Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
Test-Day Certification | 4 minutes | |
Tutorial (optional) | 10 minutes | |
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems | 59 | 95 minutes |
Break (optional) | 10 minutes | |
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills | 53 | 90 minutes |
Mid-Exam Break (optional) | 30 minutes | |
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems | 59 | 95 minutes |
Break (optional) | 10 minutes | |
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior | 59 | 95 minutes |
Void Question | 3 minutes | |
Satisfaction Survey | 5 minutes | |
Total Content Time | 6 hours 15 minutes | |
Total “Seated” Time | 7 hours 30 minutes |
Subjects for MCAT
MCAT syllabus focuses on four integrated sections to assess knowledge and skills across various scientific and analytical domains. MCAT also emphasizes the interconnectedness of the four disciplines. Therefore, candidates must develop a holistic understanding of all four sections to solve complex problems.
All the MCAT subjects concerning each of the 4 sections of the MCAT exam syllabus for medical are given in the table below:
Subject Details in MCAT Exam Syllabus - Subject Details
Sections | MCAT Syllabus for Indian Students Subject Topics |
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills |
|
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems |
|
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior |
|
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems |
|
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
This section is similar to a verbal reasoning test as it tests students’ reasoning and verbal ability. Candidates are made to read to analyse passages from a wide range of disciplines like social sciences and humanities.
MCAT Test Pattern for Section 1
Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Break-up of questions |
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills | 53 | 90 | 9 passages 5–7 questions per passage |
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
This section tests a candidate’s knowledge of physics and chemistry. It assesses a candidate’s knowledge of introductory courses taught during the first semester in biology, organic chemistry, physics, and biochemistry. A substantial number of the questions are asked from descriptive passages with multiple questions from each passage. Some questions are not passage-based and are independent. A total of 59 questions are asked from this section.
MCAT Test Pattern for Section 2
Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Break-up of questions |
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems | 59 | 95 | 10 passage-based sets of questions 4–6 questions per set 15 independent questions |
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems: Basic Biology and organic chemistry questions are asked in this section. It tests basic knowledge of biochemistry, molecular biology, and organic as well as inorganic chemistry. Out of 59 questions, there are seven passages with four to seven questions each. The Biology section focuses on concepts and information related to the life processes of organisms.
MCAT Test Pattern for Section 2
Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Break-up of questions |
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems | 59 | 95 | 10 passage-based sets of questions 4–6 questions per set 15 independent questions |
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
This section tests a candidate’s understanding of psychological, sociological and biological concepts. Students are also expected to know about basic statistical concepts.
MCAT Test Pattern for Section 2
Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Break-up of questions |
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior | 59 | 95 | 10 passage-based sets of questions 4–6 questions per set 15 independent questions |
Books for MCAT 2024 Preparation
To cover the MCAT syllabus candidates must refer to the MCAT prep books and devote enough time to practicing various MCAT subjects.
The following are some of the MCAT prep books and materials that will help candidates prepare. Students can access these materials on the MCAT official website, Amazon, and Flipkart.
AAMC MCAT Official Guide.
The Princeton Review MCAT Complete 7-Book Subject Review.
Kaplan MCAT Complete 7-Book Subject Review.
Khan Academy MCAT Prep.
MCAT Complete Guide
Candidates can check MCAT exam's eligibility criteria, registration, syllabus, pattern, scores and dates here.
DownloadMCAT exam subjects-specific resources:
Biology & Biochemistry:
EK Review Series
TPR Hyperlearning Physics and Biology Review
Chemistry & Physics:
MCAT Organic Chemistry Review by Alexander Odian
TPR General Chemistry Review
Psychology & Sociology:
TPR Psychology and Sociology Review
The Next Step MCAT Behavioral Sciences Course
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS):
TPR Verbal Reasoning Practice Passages
MCAT Preparation Tips
To get a good MCAT score candidate must prepare using different effective study resources. Students can also follow different preparation tips and strategies. Here are some MCAT preparation tips that can help you succeed on the exam.
1. Start early and plan strategically: The MCAT is a very challenging exam. Therefore, candidates should start their MCAT preparation at least 3-6 months before their test date. Students must plan a strategic study plan according to their strengths and weaknesses.
2. Use high-quality study materials: Try to access effective study materials to start MCAT prep. Various MCAT prep resources are available online as well as offline modes. Students can also follow the AAMC Official MCAT Prep Guide and practice tests to get authentic information about the MCAT pattern and syllabus.
3. Focus on understanding, not just memorising: MCAT mainly tests the critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities of the students. Therefore, candidates are advised to focus on improving their skills irrespective of just memorise the facts.
4. Take practice tests under timed conditions: Students must attempt multiple practice tests within the designated time frame to get used to working under pressure. It will help them to get comfortable with the exam format and exam time management.
Apart from the above MCAT preparation tips, students must get proper rest and take care of their mental and physical health properly. Stay motivated and do not hesitate to take help from others at the time of preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the syllabus for MCAT?
MCAT syllabus consists of four key science sections: Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems, Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behaviour, and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills. MCAT syllabus evaluates the problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioural, and social science concepts and principles of a candidate required to study medicine.
2. Who is eligible for the MCAT 2024?
Anyone aspiring to enter medical school is eligible for the MCAT 2024, regardless of citizenship. Candidates with U.S. and Canadian citizenship typically require an undergraduate degree. International candidates must have completed MBBS programmes to apply for the MCAT. However, some medical schools might have specific course eligibility for international students.
3. Is MCAT easy for Indian students?
The level of difficulty of the MCAT exam for Indian students completely depends on the individual knowledge and goals of the students. However, Indian students often have strong science backgrounds, which can benefit them in some sections. MCAT emphasizes on critical thinking and problem-solving skills of aspiring students. Therefore, candidates are advised to prepare for the MCAT exam using effective study strategies and practicing with realistic materials to get their desired results.
4. What are the 4 MCAT subjects?
MCAT syllabus is composed of four key science sections. These are
1. Biological and Biochemical Foundations: Introductory biology and chemistry concepts: organic, and inorganic.
2. Chemical and Physical Foundations: Introductory biology, chemistry: organic and inorganic, and concepts of physics. Show scientific inquiry and reasoning, research methods, and statistics skills as applied to the natural sciences.
3. Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations: Social and behavioral sciences: scientific inquiry and reasoning, research methods, and statistics skills.
4. Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills: Include content from ethics, philosophy, studies of diverse cultures, population health, and a wide range of social sciences and humanities disciplines.
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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.
monag2673 23 August,2024
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.
Amrita Koner 25 July,2024
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.
Amrita Koner 30 July,2024
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.
Amrita Koner 30 July,2024
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.
Jaysre P 07 August,2022
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