What subjects are on the MCAT?

Subjects in each section

The AAMC rounds these to the nearest 5%, and they vary from one test to another. Biochemistry shows up in two sections, so it carries more weight than its name suggests.

Physics and math on the MCAT

Physics is about a quarter of the Chem/Phys section. The math stays at about Algebra II level: estimating, scientific notation, logarithms, ratios and percentages, metric unit conversions, reading graphs with log scales, basic trigonometry and adding vectors. The AAMC says calculus isn’t required.

You can’t use a calculator, so you’ll estimate and round by hand, including square roots.

Is there a formula sheet?

No. The only thing on screen to help you is a periodic table, which you can open in the Chem/Phys section. You can’t bring notes, and the only things allowed in the room are your glasses, your ID and what the center gives you. So any physics or chemistry equation you need, you need to know by heart.

MCAT requirements: who can take it and what to study first

To sit the MCAT, you must be preparing to apply to a health professions program that accepts MCAT scores, and not already enrolled in one. Anyone else needs special permission from the AAMC. There are no extra rules for international or Canadian test takers.

There’s no official list of required courses. The AAMC says all the content is covered in introductory courses at most colleges, and suggests asking your prehealth advisor which ones you need. Course requirements for getting into medical school are a separate question, so check each school’s own list.

The full list of topics

The AAMC’s free content outline, What’s on the MCAT Exam?, lists every concept and topic each section can test, grouped into foundational concepts and content categories. Use it as your checklist.