Do I Qualify for MCAT Accommodations?

When you're interested in applying to medical school, but you happen to need accommodations of some kind, it may seem like you have no recourse when it comes to taking the MCAT. You couldn't be more incorrect. Like on other standardized tests – the SAT, the LSAT, the GRE – accommodations are available for the MCAT, too. The only thing you'll be required to do if you believe you're someone who needs MCAT accommodations, is figure out the steps you need to take to secure that type of registration. That's where this article comes in handy.

See below for information regarding the types of MCAT accommodations available and the things you  need to do to secure them for yourself.

MCAT Registration FAQs

Who Needs MCAT Accommodations?

Testers who have a medical condition or disability that necessitates changes to the MCAT testing conditions (or think they have one) should go ahead and apply for an MCAT accommodation. The AAMC lists the following as representative of conditions or disabilities that may qualify you for a testing change. They note, however, that the list is not inclusive, so if you believe you need an MCAT change, you should apply even if your particular disability or condition is not listed below:

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Anxiety disorders
• Major depression
• Learning disabilities
• Physical impairments
• Visual impairments
• Crohn's Disease
• Diabetes
• Mobility impairments

MCAT Accommodations Available

Depending on the need of the individual requesting the accommodation, the AAMC will offer things to help make the MCAT more accessible. The following list is just a sampling of what they can do for you:

• Large print
• Extra testing time
• A separate testing room
• Permission to bring in specific items like an inhaler, water or hard candy into the testing room

If you require a testing situation outside one of these accommodations the AAMC is willing to make, you'll need to make that clear in your application so they can review your needs and make a determination.

MCAT Accommodations Application Process

In order to get the ball rolling on securing MCAT accommodations, you'll need to complete the following steps.

1. Register for an AAMC ID. You'll use this ID when you register for the MCAT, apply for accommodations, apply to medical school, apply for a residency and more. So, make sure your user ID and password is one that you'll remember and won't mind seeing again and again.
2. Register for the MCAT. You'll need to register for a regular MCAT testing seat at first, so you can take the test on the date and time you prefer in case your accommodations request is denied. With dozens of test dates and times to choose from, you'll be sure to find one that suits you best.
3. Review the Accommodation Request Time Frames and Types. There are different times you must submit your application based on what you're trying to get approved. Many require 60 days, so do your research!
4. Read the Application Requirements for Your Type of Impairment. There are different procedures to go through based on whether you have a physical impairment that's permanent (diabetes, asthma), an injury (a broken leg) or a learning disability. Every application must include a personalized cover letter that describes your disability and functional impairments along medical documentation and an evaluation provided by the AAMC.
5. Submit your Application. You must – MUST – submit your application for accommodations no later than 60 days before the Silver Zone registration deadline. What's the Silver Zone Registration?
6. Wait for a Decision! You'll receive a letter via the MCAT Accommodations Online that your request has either been approved or denied. If you've been approved, your next step will be to confirm your seat as an accommodated tester. If you're denied, just show up for your standard testing time.

MCAT Accommodations Questions

Got a question for the AAMC? You can either contact them via email or mail.

E-mail: accommodations@aamc.org

Mailing Address

AAMC
MCAT Office of Accommodated Testing
Attn: Saresa Davis, Mailroom Supervisor
2450 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037