As MCAT test day nears, we’re sure you have a lot on your mind. You’re likely deep into your studies, reviewing flashcards, and taking practice exams. But with all this on your mind, you must also set aside some time to familiarize yourself with what to bring to MCAT test day.
The MCAT has very specific requirements around what is and isn’t allowed within the testing room—hint: it’s very little. You will, however, be able to access some personal items during your breaks when you’re able to rehydrate and replenish yourself. Continue reading to learn what you need to bring to the MCAT and what we recommend you pack to help the day go smoothly.
The most important thing to remember on MCAT test day is your ID. You must present identification upon arrival, and that identification must meet certain criteria set by AAMC.
New forms of identification can take a long time to acquire if you don’t already have something that’s valid. Check well in advance of your test to ensure you have a valid ID that meets the MCAT requirements. If you don’t, get on top of this right away because it could take a while for your new identification to arrive.
Don’t forget to check the expiry date on your ID as well. Will it still be valid by the time you take your MCAT test?
AAMC says valid identification must meet the following conditions:
One requirement that catches students off guard is that the first and last name on your ID must exactly match the name you used when registering for the MCAT. Once again, it must match it exactly. If there’s a discrepancy, you will not be admitted to the testing room. Also worth noting, digital or virtual IDs are not accepted under any circumstances, even if your state issues them. A physical, government-issued ID is non-negotiable.
Some forms of identification that work for the MCAT (so long as they meet the above requirements) include a state driver’s license, passport, passport card, permanent resident card, or employment authorization document.
Do not leave your home on MCAT test day without double-, triple-, and quadruple-checking that you have your ID with you. Better yet, if you have multiple ID options that fit these requirements, bring more than one just in case.
Before you leave your house, make sure you have your ID. When you get to your car, make sure you still have your ID on you. Before you walk into the testing center, make sure you have your ID. You get the idea: ensuring you have valid identification on MCAT test day is an absolute must.
During your breaks, you are only permitted access to food, water, and medication. Take advantage of these opportunities to rehydrate and replenish yourself.
Bring plenty of water or other beverages that will keep you hydrated, as well as a variety of healthy snacks. You may want to bring a small lunch, such as a simple sandwich.
Keep your food choices simple, but bring extra just in case. You’ll be working your brain hard for several hours, and that’s going to build up your appetite. Ideal foods include sandwiches, nuts, granola bars, bananas, and berries.
Light, healthy foods are best, but at the same time, don’t bring something you aren’t used to or haven’t tried before. MCAT test day is not the time to experiment. Ideally, you’ve already been fueling your brain with healthy foods that aid your focus in the study months leading up to the MCAT. But if you haven’t adjusted your diet yet, testing day isn’t the time to make a change.
It’s best to leave any unneeded items at home. You won’t be able to access them anyway, and they will only become potential distractions that may lead to a violation of testing day procedures.
Since you won’t be able to access your cell phone or any other electronic devices, you may choose to leave them at home or lock them securely in your vehicle.
Aside from the previously outlined required items, including your ID, food, and water, we recommend bringing as few items as possible. Any personal items, including jewelry and watches, must be removed before entering the test, so it’s best not to bring them with you at all. Everything on you will be examined, and any unnecessary items must be stowed in the secure storage area provided by the testing center. You will even need to turn out your pockets, so check that they are empty before you arrive.
Very little is allowed in the actual MCAT testing room, and nearly everything you’re allowed to have with you is provided by the testing center.
Your belongings, including jackets, smartphones, smartwatches, snacks, lunch, and water, will be safely locked away outside of the testing room.
The following items are the only things allowed with you once you enter the testing room:
Eyeglasses are permitted, but they are subject to visual and physical inspection by test administrators.
There are exceptions for personal items you require for medical reasons, such as if you have diabetes or require an MCAT accommodation for a physical disability. You must apply for these accommodations in advance by submitting an application and a personal statement describing your personal needs or limitations.
The MCAT takes 7.5 hours, including breaks. Each section is broken up by an optional break lasting 10-30 minutes.
During your breaks, you may access your personal belongings. At this time, you are only permitted access to food, water, and medication.
Under no circumstances will you be allowed to access your phone or any other electronic devices. These devices must be stored in a sealed bag provided by the testing center. The bag must remain closed until the test administrator opens it after your exam is completed.
When you need to access food, water, or medication, clearly remove the item from your bag. Any bag you have must remain in the provided storage and cannot be taken with you during your break or lunch.
One rule students consistently underestimate is that even touching your phone during a break is considered a violation of MCAT policies. It doesn’t matter if you’re just checking the time or silencing a notification. The moment your hand makes contact with that device, you’ve put your scores at risk. Leave it in your car or at home if you can. It’s not worth it.
The fewer surprises on test day, the better. Beyond mastering the content across all four sections, take time to review AAMC’s test day policies and familiarize yourself with the format well in advance. Logistics should be the last thing on your mind when you sit down to test.
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