Understanding MCAT Structure and Timing

A solid grasp of the MCAT’s format will help you allocate study time effectively and manage pacing on test day. The exam consists of four sections, each timed separately and focusing on different disciplines.

Overall timing

The total MCAT seat time is about 7 hours 30 minutes—6 hours 15 minutes of testing plus breaks and administrative tasks. You will navigate four content sections separated by scheduled breaks. Be prepared for the mental endurance required to maintain focus over a long day.

Section‑by‑section breakdown

Below is a summary of each section, its duration and the number of questions. The MCAT includes 230 questions in total.

1. Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys)

• Duration: 95 minutes
• Questions: 59 (10 passages with 4–7 questions each plus 15 discrete questions)
• Focus: General chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, physics and a small amount of biology. Questions require interpreting data and applying knowledge of physical principles to biological systems.

2. Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Questions: 53 (9 passages with 5–7 questions each)
• Focus: Reading comprehension and reasoning. Passages cover humanities and social sciences topics; success depends on understanding arguments, identifying assumptions and drawing conclusions.

3. Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/Biochem)

• Duration: 95 minutes
• Questions: 59 (10 passages with 4–7 questions each plus 15 discrete questions)
• Focus: Biology and biochemistry, with some organic chemistry and general chemistry. Questions emphasize processes unique to living organisms and experimental design.

4. Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc)

• Duration: 95 minutes
• Questions: 59 (10 passages with 4–7 questions each plus 15 discrete questions)
• Focus: Psychology and sociology concepts related to human behavior, mental health and social determinants of health. Knowledge of research methods and statistics is also tested.

Breaks

After the Chem/Phys and CARS sections, there is a 10‑minute break. A 30‑minute lunch break follows the CARS section. Another 10‑minute break comes after the Bio/Biochem section. Use these breaks to refuel and reset; you may access food and drink but not study materials.

Scoring

Each section is scored from 118 to 132, with a median of 125. Your total score ranges from 472 to 528. Schools typically evaluate both the composite and individual section scores, so balance your preparation across all four areas.

How to use this breakdown in your study plan

• Allocate time proportionally. Since each science section has 59 questions and similar timing, dedicate similar study hours to Chem/Phys, Bio/Biochem and Psych/Soc. CARS requires consistent practice due to its unique skills.
• Practice under timed conditions. Take full‑length exams to get used to the pacing of each section and learn to manage your time effectively across passages and discrete questions.
• Know your strengths. Use diagnostic tests to identify which section you need to prioritise. Tailor your study schedule to strengthen weaker areas without neglecting your strengths.

Understanding the structure and timing of the MCAT will help you build an effective preparation strategy and stay calm on exam day.