What Is a Good MCAT Score?
The MCAT is scored from 472–528 (midpoint 500). In short: 511+ is at the MD matriculant average, 515+ is competitive for most MD programs, and 520+is exceptional. But “good” depends on your target schools and the rest of your application.
Figures approximate, based on AAMC published data
The Short Answer
A “good” MCAT score is one that's competitive for the schools you're applying to. As a general benchmark, though, here's how the numbers break down.
- The total scale runs 472–528, with 500 as the exact midpoint. The overall test-taker mean is about 501–502.
- The MD matriculant average is ~511.9 (~84th–86th percentile). Scoring 511+ puts you at or above the average admitted MD student.
- 515+ (~92nd percentile) is competitive for most MD programs; 520+ (~98th) is exceptional.
- 505–508 is competitive for many DO programs and some MD programs (the DO matriculant average is ~504).
All figures approximate, based on AAMC published data.
MCAT Score Bands, by Percentile & School Type
Use these bands to gauge how competitive a score is. Percentiles and school types are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
“Good” Depends on Your Target Schools
There's no single “good” number — the right target is set by the schools on your list and by the rest of your application.
School figures are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
Section Balance Matters
A strong total is best backed by four balanced section scores. Each of the four sections is scaled 118–132, and a single low section can raise concerns even when the total looks good.
- A balanced 128/128/128/128 = 512 often reads better to admissions than a lopsided total with a 124 outlier.
- Many schools look at individual section scores, so a weak section can be a flag even with a competitive total.
- When you plan a retake, target your lowest section first — that's usually where the fastest, most credible gains are.
Estimate Your Score & Percentile
Want to see where you land? Use these free, exam-aligned tools to estimate your score, compare to the average, and read the percentile tables.
Turn a “Good” Score Into Your Score
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Good MCAT Score — FAQ
What is a good MCAT score?+
A good MCAT score is generally 511 or higher, because that's at or above the average of students who matriculate into MD programs (about 511.9, roughly the 84th–86th percentile). A 515+ (~92nd percentile) is competitive for most MD programs, and 520+ (~98th) is exceptional. Scores around 505–508 are competitive for many DO programs and some MD programs. Ultimately 'good' is relative to your target schools and the rest of your application. These figures are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
What is a good MCAT score for medical school?+
For MD programs, aim for at least the matriculant average of about 511.9 (~84th–86th percentile); 515+ (~92nd percentile) makes you competitive at most MD schools, and top-20 MD programs have median MCATs around 518–521. For DO programs, the matriculant average is about 504, so 505–508 is competitive for many DO and some MD programs. What's 'good' depends on your specific target schools and your overall application (GPA, clinical and research experience). These figures are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
Is a 505 a good MCAT score?+
A 505 is a solid score that sits above the overall test-taker mean (~501–502) and is competitive for many DO programs and some MD programs. It's below the MD matriculant average of about 511.9, so for competitive MD schools it typically needs to be paired with a strong GPA and application — or you may consider a focused retake. These figures are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
Is a 510 a good MCAT score?+
Yes — a 510 is a strong score, just under the MD matriculant average of about 511.9 and well above the overall mean of ~501–502. It's competitive for many MD and DO programs, especially with a good GPA and a well-rounded application. Scoring 511+ would put you at or above the average admitted MD student. These figures are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
Is a 515 a good MCAT score?+
Yes — a 515 is an excellent MCAT score, around the 92nd percentile, meaning you scored higher than about 92% of test takers. It's competitive for most MD programs. For the very top-20 MD schools, whose median MCATs run about 518–521, a 515 is still solid but on the lower end of their range. These figures are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
What MCAT score do I need for MD? For DO?+
For MD programs, a competitive target is at or above the matriculant average of about 511.9, with 515+ strengthening your chances at most schools and 518–521 aligning with top-20 medians. For DO programs, the matriculant average is about 504, so scores of roughly 505–508 are competitive for many DO and some MD programs. Your ideal target depends on the specific schools on your list. These figures are approximate, based on AAMC published data.
Is a good MCAT score enough to get in?+
No — a strong MCAT score helps a lot, but admissions are holistic. Schools weigh your GPA, clinical and research experience, letters, personal statement, and interviews alongside your score. A balanced score with no low section outlier matters too, since a single weak section can raise concerns even when the total looks strong. Think of a good MCAT as a key part of a competitive application, not the whole thing.
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