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Last Updated on January 16, 2025
If you decide to pursue further education, you might find yourself looking at a bunch of standardized tests you need to take to get into graduate school. Among others, MCAT and GRE have a high number of test-takers.
What This Article Covers
- Overview of
College Decisions – Learn about the challenges and decisions faced duringcollege , including choosing majors, minors, and career paths after graduation. - Understanding the MCAT – Discover what the MCAT is, its importance for medical school admission, and the skills and knowledge it tests for future doctors.
- Understanding the GRE – Learn what the GRE is and how it serves as an admission test for a wide range of graduate and doctoral programs.
- Major Differences Between the MCAT and GRE – Compare the MCAT and GRE, including the test content, format, scoring, and validity of scores.
- MCAT Test Format and Requirements – Explore the specifics of the MCAT, such as the number of sections, scoring range, and test frequency.
- GRE Test Format and Requirements – Understand the GRE test format, including the sections, scoring, and the number of times the test can be taken each year.
- Which Test Is Right for You? – Find out how to decide whether the GRE or MCAT is more suitable for your career goals, particularly if you’re uncertain about pursuing medical school.
- Resources for Test Preparation – Access resources and guides to help you prepare for the MCAT or GRE, including test prep courses and study materials.
ESSENTIAL SUBJECT REVIEW FOR YOUR TOP MCAT SCORE. This comprehensive, all-in-one resource prepares you for the MCAT with in-depth content reviews, test-conquering strategies, a tear-out "cheat sheet" reference guide, and 4 full-length online practice exams for total test preparation.
Here is everything that can help make the decision.
What Is the MCAT?
The MCAT is a highly recognized admission test for medical colleges across North America. The test is conducted by the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges). It tests the candidates’ knowledge of common topics related to the medical field, such as biology and social sciences. It also tests various skills. the MCAT is known to be particularly difficult, but it’s the perfect choice for a future doctor. If you are interested in additional resources, a list of prep materials can be found here.
What Is GRE?
The Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, is much more general than the MCAT. The test is accepted for various master’s and doctoral programs all across North America. It is administered by the ETS or the Educational Testing Service. It also tests each candidate’s abilities in various ways.
Choosing between med school or a master's program? The decision hinges on which test to take—MCAT or GRE. Understand the key differences and choose the right path for your career. Ready to make your decision? #MCATvsGREClick To TweetThe Major Differences between MCAT and GRE
GRE
- Accepted by many graduate schools for various programs across North America.
- The computer-based forms are offered year-round, with both test center and at-home options available.
- Total test time is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes, with no breaks between sections.
- Contains three sections: Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning (130-170 scale) and one Analytical Writing essay (0-6 scale).
- Scores are valid for 5 years from the exam date.
- It can be taken once every 21 days, up to five times in a 12-month period.
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MCAT
- Required specifically for medical school admissions in North America.
- Offered 30 test dates in 2025, from January through September.
- The total test day time is approximately 7.5 hours, with the exam itself taking 6 hours and 15 minutes.
- Four sections scored 118-132 each, with total scores ranging from 472-528.
- Registration fee is $345 for U.S. examinees ($465 for international test-takers).
- Limited to three attempts per year, four times over two consecutive years, and seven times lifetime total.
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What Is Most Suitable For You?
The GRE mainly focuses on general aptitude in areas like verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. On the other hand, the MCAT focuses on content knowledge specific to the medical field. Your
If you’re unsure whether medical school is the right choice, the GRE might suit you, as it is used for various graduate programs. You should research the schools you are interested in applying to. Some medical-related fields, such as veterinary sciences, accept the GRE and MCAT. For more detailed guidance on choosing the right prep course for the MCAT, check out Test Prep Pal.
Additionally, if you’re looking for insights from experienced educators, The Greene School teachers suggest the GRE as an ideal choice for those undecided about medical school. Explore your options carefully to decide which exam aligns with your goals and future
Next Steps
- Research
Career Path Options – Determine whether you are more interested in pursuing medical school or graduate school in other fields. Understanding your career goals will guide your decision on which test to take. For more on career paths, visit career path options. - Evaluate Test Requirements – Understand the specific test requirements for the programs you want to apply to. Each program may have different prerequisites regarding the GRE or MCAT. Explore more about program requirements at MCAT Prep.
- Review the GRE Format – Familiarize yourself with the GRE’s sections, scoring, and testing duration to better prepare for the test. The more you know about the test format, the better your preparation. Check out the Kaplan GRE Guide for detailed format information.
- Prepare for the MCAT – If you’re leaning toward medical school, focus on preparing for the MCAT. Use prep books, practice tests, and online resources to enhance your study plan. One recommended prep source is Princeton Review MCAT Prep.
ESSENTIAL SUBJECT REVIEW FOR YOUR TOP MCAT SCORE. This comprehensive, all-in-one resource prepares you for the MCAT with in-depth content reviews, test-conquering strategies, a tear-out "cheat sheet" reference guide, and 4 full-length online practice exams for total test preparation.
- Assess Your Test-Taking Strengths – Determine whether you excel in general aptitude (GRE) or content knowledge (MCAT). This can help guide you toward the test that suits your skills better. For a skills assessment, visit Job Test Prep.
- Plan Your Test Dates – Schedule your exam dates in advance to give yourself ample time to prepare. Both the GRE and MCAT have specific test periods, so ensure you’re ready. Learn more about planning test dates on AAMC.
- Consult with Academic Advisors – Speak with your school’s academic advisors or experienced educators to get personalized advice on which test fits your career aspirations best.
Kaplan’s MCAT Complete 7-Book Subject Review 2022–2023 reflects the latest, most accurate, and most testable materials on the MCAT. Streamlined and intuitive layouts facilitate easier review.
