Differences Between the Canadian and American MCAT

The MCAT is a standardized test used by both Canadian and American Medical Schools to assess pre-med student applicants. However, there are a few differences between the tests in both countries.  

This post will discuss the similarities and any differences between the Canadian and American MCAT.

The United States vs. Canada: Is it the Same MCAT Test?

Canada and the US are two of the major countries where the MCAT is administered. It is exceedingly unusual that test-takers in different places would have the same version of the test. It is possible to have the same sections in a different order, but not in the same exam version. 

Because of how the Computer Testing is set up, each exam is created as a separate entity when the test-taker checks in, and it is downloaded in its totality to the computer that will be used for the exam before it begins. 

The MCAT is not a computer-adaptive examination in which the exam alters as the test continues based on correct or incorrect responses.

Each exam is set up as a template, with a set number of easy, medium, and difficult questions/passages, guaranteeing that everyone should have an exam with the same level of difficulty.

The algorithm merely analyzes the database for questions/passages that suit the exam profile, guaranteeing that everyone takes an exam that is objectively equivalent in complexity. 

As a result, depending on the themes discussed, some candidates will find one version simpler or more difficult than another.

Canada vs The United States: MCAT Exam Format

Both the MCAT in Canada and the US follow the same format. 

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), which created and oversees the MCAT, does so in order to offer medical schools with standard metrics for assessing applicants' credentials and readiness for medical school, both in Canada and the US. 

MCATs in both countries last 7 and a half hours with four sections to cover. These four MCAT test sections are 

There are a total of 230 questions to answer and all are multiple-choice.

Except for the MCAT CARS section which takes about 90 minutes, the remaining three sections last for 95 minutes, with optional breaks in between.

The United States vs. Canada: MCAT Scoring Differences

MCAT section scores are weighted differently at Canadian schools than they are in the United States. Although there is a significant difference between programs, schools in the United States assign each section about equal weighting. 

Additionally, matriculants at Canadian medical schools have a slightly higher average MCAT score.

In 2019, matriculants in the United States had a mean MCAT score of 511.2, compared to 512.5 for Canadian students.

Canada vs. the United States: MCAT Test Requirements

Both Canada and the US have the same MCAT requirements. All applicants must finish undergraduate college work leading to a baccalaureate degree from a college of arts and sciences in the United States or Canada that is accredited.

The admissions committee does not have a preference for a particular field of undergraduate study, but all college work must include the following: English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry courses. 

Some upper-level scientific courses with laboratory work are strongly encouraged, while they are not necessary.

Anyone interested in a profession in allopathic, osteopathic, podiatric, or veterinary medicine can prepare for and write the MCAT test. 

Students from the United States and Canada must have a bachelor's degree to take the MCAT exam. If you are an international student, you must be pursuing or have completed your MBBS.

If you are taking the MCAT for reasons other than pursuing a profession in medicine, you must obtain special clearance from the AAMC.

MCAT Canada vs MCAT US: Exam Dates 

MCAT Canada vs MCAT US: Test Score Validity 

The MCAT in Canada and US, being both administered by the AAMC, follows the same rules when it comes to the test score validity. 

Whether you take the MCAT in Canada or the US, your score is valid for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years. The AAMC will still maintain a record of an MCAT score more than three years old in their database.

However, for applications to medical schools, this will no longer be acceptable. The rationale is that any medical student must have completed three years of study to demonstrate sufficient medical competence and knowledge. Any longer than that will require them to update their knowledge and abilities.

Additionally, some institutions have their own MCAT score expiration dates. Some people accept a maximum barrier of two years, while others generously tolerate three. In any case, you should schedule the exam according to when you intend to start medical school. 

First, speak with the medical school if you want to take the MCAT. You'll most likely need to repeat the test if you don't find out how long an MCAT score is valid before applying to a school.