MCAT vs. GMAT | Navigating the path to medical schools

MCAT vs. GMAT | Introduction

Standardized tests such as MCAT and GMAT are designed to gauge the abilities of students, test their knowledge and compare their skills with other students. But the MCAT and GMAT are two different exams designed for different purposes. Even though both exams are important for admission into the top universities in the world, if you score good marks in MCAT vs. GMAT exams, it will open two different opportunities for you.

Let’s dive into details about the MCAT vs. GMAT exams for a better understanding of which test is right for you!

About GMAT 

GMAT, or Graduate Management Admission Test, is regulated by the GMAC or Graduate Management Admission Council. Most of the prestigious management institutes in both the United States and European countries ask for the candidate’s GMAT score as part of their admission process. 

In this test, the candidate’s analytical ability is tested along with their knowledge of different topics or subjects. The GMAT test is divided into four different sections, which include quantitative reasoning, analytical writing assessment, verbal reasoning, and integrated reasoning. 

All of these sections are included in the test to evaluate the candidate’s critical thinking and reasoning skills, along with their capacity to analyze a situation and solve different kinds of issues. You also need to note that the two sections of the GMAT test are computer adaptive, and the following questions are given based on how you answer the previous questions. 

When your total GMAT score is calculated, the number of correct answers is taken into consideration, along with the difficulty level of the questions.

About MCAT 

If your goal is to enter medical school, you will need to take the MCAT. The MCAT assesses your knowledge and skills in areas relevant to medical education, including biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and critical thinking. MCAT is one of the most famous tests accepted by prestigious medical schools in the United States, Canada, and other European countries. 

If you are applying to any medical school, you need to submit your MCAT score while submitting the application form. Through the MCAT exam, the aspirant’s scientific skills in three different areas are explored, and it also evaluates the reasoning as well as critical thinking skills of the individuals. 

The main topics of the MCAT include –

• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills 
• Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems 
• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems 
• Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior 

Due to years of experience, most medical schools know how the MCAT score correlates with the performance of the applicant. However, you, as an applicant, don’t have to take too much stress while taking the MCAT exam. Instead, just relax, prepare well, keep focused on your studies, and do the best you can to receive the best possible result. Your hard work will eventually pay off. 

MCAT vs. GMAT | Comparison 

To help you decide and understand the between MCAT vs. GMAT, here is a head-to-head comparison of the MCAT vs. GMAT tests-

Factors	GMAT	MCAT
Full form	Graduate Management  Admission Test	Medical College Admission Test
Applicable for	Admission to management schools	Admission to medical schools
Cost of the test	$250	$320
Total duration	3 hours and 30 minutes	7 hours and 30 minutes (breaks included)
Total score	Ranges between 200 – 800	Ranges between 472 – 528
Governing body	Graduate Management  Admission Council (GMAC)	Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
Date of the test	Throughout the year, in most locations	Throughout the year, in most locations

For an individual who aspires to become a medical student, this is just the beginning phase of their journey, and it also helps the institutions understand how well-prepared the students are to pursue their medical degree. 

From the perspective of medical schools, between the MCAT vs. GMAT, only the score of the MCAT is allowed during the submission of their application. The institutes can compare the individual applicants and will select the deserving students who are ready to start their journey in medical schools. 

Key takeaways 

• Both MCAT and GMAT are equally important examinations that test the ability and skills of the students. However, only MCAT is acceptable for admission to medical schools, and GMAT scores, on the other hand, allow students to be admitted to management schools. 
• The MCAT test is governed by the Association of American Medical Colleges, whereas the GMAT test is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council or GMAC. 
• The total exam duration between MCAT vs. GMAT is different. MCAT tests are almost twice as long as the GMAT test. 
• Both exams are divided into four different sections, and candidates have to score well in all sections to receive the maximum score and increase their chances of admission to the best medical schools. 

Now that you know the difference between both exams, you can easily decide which exam to take-MCAT vs. GMAT as per your long-term goals. These entrance tests are life-changing for students. Hence you should give your 100% while preparing for them. If you have queries about the study abroad entrance tests, visit our website and connect with our experts.

Like this blog? Read more at All about GMAT for MBA | GMAT sample test!

FAQs 

Question 1: Which is harder, MCAT vs. GMAT? 

Answer: MCAT is a hard exam to crack because it requires an extensive amount of study and preparation. You also need to have knowledge of specific subjects and be good at critical reasoning to land a good score on the MCAT. Furthermore, the MCAT test is twice as long as the GMAT. For all these reasons, MCAT is a tougher test to crack. 

Question 2: Do all medical schools require the MCAT?

Answer: While not all medical schools require the MCAT, the majority of medical schools in the United States and Canada do. It is crucial to research the specific requirements of the medical schools you are interested in to determine if the MCAT is necessary.

Question 3: Are there any specific study resources available for MCAT and GMAT preparation?

Answer: Yes, there are numerous resources available for MCAT and GMAT preparation. Official practice exams, study guides, review books, online courses, and tutoring services can provide valuable assistance in preparing for these exams.