Registering for the test should be done months in advance. In fact the AAMC recommends registering at least 60 days in advance in order to secure the most desirable date and location. It is important to know not only where the test center is but the time zone as well. An official government issued I.D. is required in order to sit for the test. An example of a government issued I.D. would be a driver's license or a passport. The exam costs $230 and partial refunds are available if you cancel your registration by the registration deadline. Additionally, students must register at the online website hosted by the AAMC.
This exam tests your mastery of "basic concepts in biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, problem solving, critical thinking, and general writing skills." The exam itself consists of three multiple-choice sections plus a writing assessment. The areas include: Physical Science, Verbal Reasoning, a Writing Sample and Biological Sciences.
Besides taking courses in the aforementioned areas, many students tend to enroll in test prep courses offered by Kaplan or the Princeton Review. In addition, students often form study groups and meet regularly prior to taking the MCAT. MCAT Practice Tests can also be ordered to give students an idea of the layout of the exam and the content. There is a variety of test prep material on the market, including books, tapes and notecards, all aimed at helping students succeed on the MCAT.
Students can find out how well they did on the MCAT a month after the exam. According to the AAMC, students can find out how they did by logging into the "Testing History (THx) Score Reporting System 30 to 35 days after your test date, between 5 pm and midnight Eastern time."
Scores are automatically sent to the colleges you wish to receive them if you are applying to medical school through AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service). However, if you feel uneasy about your performance on the exam, you do have the option of voiding your test, in which case your exam will not be scored and no results will be reported.