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Malke Asaad July 13, 2023
MCAT Blog
Best Resources for Preparing for the MCAT
Study Strategies, Practice Tools, and Tips for Success
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Introduction
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is one of the most important exams for aspiring medical students. Administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the MCAT is designed to assess problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts essential for medical school success. Because the exam is both broad and detailed, an effective study strategy is crucial. Preparing smartly — using the right resources and practice tools — can make the difference between a competitive score and one that limits your medical school options.
This guide includes the resources we personally recommend based on our tutoring experience. However, if you prefer a list based on reviews of multiple resources, check out this blog.
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Table of Contents
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What Are The Match Guy’s Top Picks for Resources?
If You Already Have a Strong Content Foundation
If your content base is solid and you’re mainly trying to fine-tune your test-taking skills, your highest-yield move is to lean heavily on AAMC Practice Materials and UWorld.
The AAMC full-lengths set the gold standard for MCAT exam realism—question style, passage tone, timing, even the subtle way they phrase distractors.
Pair these with UWorld’s massive question bank to sharpen your reasoning and identify blind spots you didn’t know you had. At this stage, the name of the game is refinement. You’re not rebuilding your foundation—you’re stress-testing it. Use UWorld to diagnose weaknesses and the AAMC exams to practice performing at game speed.
If Your Foundation Is Strong but You Haven’t Reviewed in a While
For students who once knew the content well but feel rusty, the most efficient strategy is to reactivate knowledge before shifting into heavy practice.
Start with UWorld, not only for the explanations but because the question-based learning forces your old knowledge back online quickly.
Complement this with Anki, ideally the Anking deck, to reinforce forgotten pathways and rebuild your recall. Once your confidence returns and you notice fewer “I used to know this” moments, transition to the AAMC Practice Tests. This sequence gives you the best of both worlds: spaced repetition to rebuild your base, and official materials to lock in exam-day readiness.
With this strategy, we still recommend leaning into practice questions early. A tutor can always help fill in the gaps with difficult concepts, so it is important to get experience solving questions as soon as possible.
If You Have a Poor or Patchy Content Foundation
If your content fundamentals aren’t where they need to be, don’t worry—your plan just needs to emphasize structure and clarity first.
Start with Khan Academy MCAT videos, which remain some of the most approachable, free, and well-organized content resources out there. Use them to build a clean, conceptual understanding before moving into heavier practice.
Once you’ve laid that groundwork, transition into UWorld. Its explanations function like miniature lessons and will help you bridge the gap between basic understanding and reasoning-based application. This combination gives struggling students the scaffolding they need to make real, measurable progress.
Learning the material for the first time and then having to integrate it can be tricky, especially if you have limited time to study. Having a dedicated tutor to help you understand difficult concepts, learn how to solve practice questions, and come up with a study plan tailored to your needs can be a game changer in this situation.
Now that you understand several of the most important considerations and our top picks for studying, let’s dive into the most important of the resources we mentioned and how to use them most effectively. Bear in mind, not everyone needs every resource, but all can be beneficial based on your learning style and timeline.
Resource: UWorld for the MCAT
UWorld is one of the most comprehensive question banks available for MCAT preparation. It features thousands of passage-style questions that mirror the format and difficulty of the actual exam. Each question is accompanied by detailed explanations, vivid illustrations, and concise content summaries that break down complex topics into understandable parts. UWorld emphasizes conceptual understanding over rote memorization, making it an excellent tool for reinforcing science concepts and improving test-taking strategy.
How to Use UWorld Effectively:
Use UWorld as a learning and diagnostic tool, not just for testing yourself. Start incorporating UWorld questions early in your study plan to identify weak areas. Review every explanation — even for questions you answered correctly — and take notes or make flashcards for unfamiliar topics.This works best if you think of strategies to solve similar questions in the future, rather than just memorizing base content. As you approach your test date, simulate testing conditions by completing timed question blocks to build stamina and pacing. Many students find UWorld most effective when paired with a content review resource like Khan Academy or a prep book.
Pros / Cons / Cost:
Pros:
- Realistic question style and difficulty, closely matching the real MCAT.
- Detailed answer explanations that teach underlying concepts, not just facts.
- Excellent for identifying weaknesses and reinforcing through practice.
Cons:
- Subscription cost can be steep for some students.
- Explanations are lengthy — reviewing thoroughly takes time.
- Limited full-length practice exams (more of a question bank than a full course).
Cost:
- Starts at $329 for a standard Q-bank subscription (varies by duration and package).
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Resource: Khan Academy for the MCAT
Khan Academy MCAT is a free, high-yield content review resource that provides hundreds of instructional videos and practice passages across all MCAT subjects — including biology, biochemistry, psychology, and physics. Developed in collaboration with the AAMC, the material is accurate and aligned with the MCAT test blueprint.
How to Use Khan Academy Effectively:
Khan Academy is best used during the content review phase of your study schedule. Start with subjects you feel least confident in and work through the corresponding video playlists. Take detailed notes or make digital flashcards (e.g., in Anki) to reinforce key ideas. Because the videos are short and concept-driven, they’re perfect for daily study sessions or quick refreshers before practice tests. Pairing Khan Academy lessons with active practice through UWorld or AAMC questions ensures both conceptual understanding and application.
Pros:
- 100% free
- Developed in collaboration with AAMC — highly aligned with MCAT content.
- Excellent for conceptual understanding and visual learners.
- Organized by subject and easy to integrate into a daily study schedule.
Cons:
- No adaptive features or analytics.
- Lacks question volume for endurance training.
Cost:
- Free (all content available via KhanAcademy.org/MCAT)
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Resource: AAMC Practice Tests for the MCAT
The AAMC Official Practice Tests are the gold standard for MCAT preparation. Written by the same organization that creates the actual exam, these full-length tests replicate the format, content, and difficulty level of the real MCAT. The AAMC currently offers several practice exams and section banks, each providing accurate scaled scores and detailed answer explanations. These are the most predictive tools for estimating how you’ll perform on test day. All of these tools are provided free for students receiving the AAMC Fee Assistance Program.
How to Use AAMC Practice Tests Effectively:
Plan to take AAMC exams under realistic testing conditions — timed, early in the morning, with limited breaks, and in a quiet environment. Treat these exams as both diagnostic and evaluative tools: use early tests to identify weak areas and later ones to gauge readiness. After each test, spend significant time reviewing every question, focusing on why incorrect answers were wrong and how correct answers were supported by the passage or reasoning. Aim to complete all available AAMC materials before your test date, ideally saving one full-length test for your final week of review.
If you are having trouble understanding AAMC practice test questions while grading them and want support, our team of tutors can be an additional resource. They are well equipped to help you come up with strategies to solve similar problems in the future, which is essential for smart preparation.
Pros:
- Written by the same organization that creates the actual MCAT — most accurate predictor of your score.
- Realistic exam interface, timing, and scoring scale.
- Offers both full-length exams and section banks for targeted practice.
- Excellent for building endurance and simulating test day conditions.
Cons:
- Limited number of available full-lengths (you can exhaust them quickly).
- Minimal explanatory detail — designed for assessment rather than teaching.
- No built-in tutoring or adaptive learning tools.
Cost:
- Full-length exams: ~$35 each or $140 for a 4-test bundle.
- Full AAMC Online Prep Bundle: ~$323.70 (includes question packs and section banks).
- Free for anyone with AAMC Fee Assistance
Resource: Anki/Anking for the MCAT
Anki is a free spaced-repetition flashcard software. Student made decks have circulated for free on Reddit for years (jacksparrow2048’s and Miledown’s Decks are quite popular). However, premium decks by reputed sources also exist.
The AnKing “MCAT Deck” (available via AnkiHub) is a pre-made, high-volume deck built by pre-med students and updated with community contributions. Individual cards are also tagged to integrate with other resources, such as Kaplan and Khan Academy. For example, AnkiHub offers the AnKing MCAT deck at ~ $55/year or a lifetime access of ~$240. Some users also access older versions for free, though with less support.
It is important to note that many students find that the most effective anki decks are self-made. This is because they are tuned to the user’s style of thinking and learning and can include mnemonics that you yourself come up with. A pre-made deck is made for someone else’s way of thinking and may not be as helpful for difficult concepts. If you are having trouble designing anki cards or coming up with strategies to incorporate into them, an experienced tutor can also help guide you.
How to Use Anki Effectively:
Use Anki daily to reinforce and retain key facts — definitions, reaction mechanisms, psychology/sociology concepts, data interpretation, etc. Pair it with your active study — e.g., after doing a question bank block or watching a video, immediately make or review Anki cards. For best effect: keep reviews consistent, suspend cards you know, focus on those you struggle with, and link cards to Q-bank misses (many AnKing decks tag by QID). Most effective when started early and maintained throughout your study period, rather than only cramming at the end.
Pros / Cons / Cost:
Pros:
- Extremely cost-effective compared to full courses.
- Supports long-term retention and review (especially helpful for P/S section and high-yield facts).
- Highly customizable and integrates with other resources (e.g., Q-bank tags).
Cons:
- Requires discipline to maintain daily reviews — many students fall behind.
- Does not replace content review or full-length practice tests; it’s a supplement.
- Pre-made decks sometimes include cards that are less high-yield or redundant.
Cost:
- ~ $55/year for AnKing via AnkiHub, or ~$240 lifetime. Basic Anki software is free.
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Resource: Kaplan for the MCAT
Kaplan is one of the longstanding test-prep brands offering comprehensive MCAT courses, including on-demand, live online, in-person, and private tutoring. They offer 3,000+ practice questions, 16 full-length tests in some plans, and a score guarantee.
How to Use Kaplan Effectively:
If you choose Kaplan, use the structure and resources as your primary framework: work through their content review books/videos, complete the practice questions and full-length exams, and make use of built-in progress tracking. If you enroll in a live or in-person format, treat class time as mandatory and schedule dedicated study blocks for review a nd questions. For self-paced versions, set a weekly schedule and ensure you are doing both learning and practicing. Ultimately, the key is to simulate full-length exams under timed conditions and review deeply after each test.
Pros / Cons / Cost:
Pros:
- Trusted brand with extensive resources and full-length exams.
- Many course options to fit different schedules and learning styles.
- Score improvement guarantee in many plans.
Cons:
- High cost compared to self-study/DIY resources.
- The format is more generic rather than tailored to individual weaknesses.
- Live/in-person formats may require fixed scheduling and travel.
Cost:
- On-demand starting at $1,599, Live Online at $2,699, In-Person from$3,199+. Tutoring packages and bootcamps may exceed $6,000.
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Resource: Blueprint for the MCAT
Blueprint is a full-service MCAT prep platform offering an online course with video content, question banks, flashcards, practice tests and live instruction. Their “515+ Course” boasts live lessons, personalized coaching and a score-increase guarantee. They also offer self-paced and live online variants from lower prices.
How to Use Blueprint Effectively:
Use Blueprint as a structured backbone for your MCAT preparation. Start with their content modules and videos to build a strong foundation, then work through their Q-bank and full-length practice tests. Given the cost and comprehensiveness, integrate Blueprint early in your study timeline and use its live or workshop sessions (if included) for accountability. As you approach test day, lean on their full-length tests and performance analytics to identify weak areas and refine timing and strategy.
Pros / Cons / Cost:
Pros:
- Comprehensive content review with many videos and modules.
- Large Q-bank and many full-length practice tests.
- Score-increase guarantee (in some plans).
Cons:
- Relatively expensive compared to other options.
- May offer more structure than some students require (i.e., less flexibility for self-directed learners).
Cost:
- Self-Paced from $1,199. Live Online from $1,999. 515+ Course from $2,999.
Princeton Review (MCAT)
The Princeton Review is one of the most established names in MCAT preparation, offering a variety of courses that cater to different learning styles and timelines. Their options range from Self-Paced and LiveOnline formats to intensive bootcamps and private tutoring. Courses include comprehensive content review, more than 16 full-length practice exams, thousands of practice questions, and access to expert instructors. The Princeton Review is also known for its score guarantee programs, such as the 510+ Course, which promises to help students achieve a minimum composite score of 510 or higher.
How to Use Princeton Review Effectively:
Start by following their pre-designed study plan and complete the assigned lessons and practice tests in sequence. Use their performance analytics to identify your weak areas, and review these topics using supplementary materials like Khan Academy or Anki flashcards. Take advantage of instructor office hours or Q&A sessions to clarify difficult concepts, and treat each practice test as a serious rehearsal for exam day. For students needing a quick boost, the shorter bootcamp-style courses can help consolidate knowledge efficiently before test day.
Pros / Cons / Cost:
Pros:
- Highly structured and guided — ideal for students who need accountability.
- Large bank of realistic practice questions and full-length exams.
- Experienced instructors and strong track record of score improvements.
- Offers score guarantees (e.g., “510+ Course”) for qualifying students.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other resources.
- Less flexibility if you prefer to move at your own pace.
- Course quality may vary depending on instructor or location.
Cost:
- Self-Paced Course:~$1,249, 510+ Live Online Course: $2,649, Practice Tests and QBank: $149 (Pricing may vary seasonally)
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Why You Shouldn’t Overload Yourself with MCAT Resources
When preparing for the MCAT, it’s easy to feel that success depends on purchasing every prep course, question bank, and review book available — but in reality, more resources don’t always mean better results. Using too many materials can lead to burnout, fragmented studying, and wasted time switching between platforms rather than mastering concepts. The most successful students focus on depth, not breadth — thoroughly engaging with a few high-quality resources, tracking their progress, and reinforcing what they learn through active recall and spaced repetition.
With disciplined time management and consistent effort, you can prepare extremely effectively using a small number of free or low-cost tools such as Khan Academy for content review, Anki for memory retention, and AAMC practice exams for realistic test simulation. Ultimately, it’s not about how many resources you use — it’s about how intentionally and consistently you use them.
What If I Need More Structure and Support?
While many students thrive with self-guided study, others perform best with structure, accountability, and expert guidance — and that’s perfectly okay. If you find it difficult to stay consistent on your own or prefer having a clear, step-by-step plan, enrolling in a structured MCAT course can make a big difference.
Programs like Kaplan, Blueprint, and Princeton Review provide comprehensive study schedules, interactive lessons, progress tracking, and access to experienced instructors who can help clarify challenging topics and keep you on pace. These courses also offer features such as full-length practice exams, performance analytics, and personalized feedback, which can be invaluable for students who want more direction. Although these programs come with a higher price tag, they can be a worthwhile investment if you need additional support, motivation, or structure to reach your target score.
Even more so than classroom-based courses, an experienced and dedicated tutor can be a game change for students that are struggling to pick study resources for their learning style, come up with a schedule, and understand how to improve between practice sessions. Unlike classroom instruction, tutoring has the advantage of one-on-one, personalized support for your specific needs. We offer a full suite of tutoring packages from expert, 95th percentile and above tutors that come with additional resources and guides, and encourage students needing extra support to reach out to us.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Best MCAT Resources
What are the sections of the MCAT?
The MCAT is scored on a scale of 472 to 528, with each of the four sections receiving a score between 118 and 132. These four sections evaluate different domains of science and reasoning skills:
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys) – Tests your understanding of general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and biochemistry as they apply to biological systems.
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) – Focuses on reading comprehension and logical reasoning, using passages drawn from humanities and social sciences.
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/Biochem) – Evaluates biology and biochemistry concepts, particularly how they relate to living organisms and cellular functions.
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc) – Assesses understanding of psychology, sociology, and how these disciplines relate to human and social behavior.
Together, these sections provide a comprehensive measure of the scientific and analytical skills needed for medical training.
How Many Questions Are There in Each Block of the MCAT?
Each of the four MCAT sections consists of 59 multiple-choice questions, except for CARS, which contains 53 questions. You’ll have 95 minutes to complete each science section and 90 minutes for the CARS section. Each block includes both passage-based and discrete (standalone) questions, so time management is key.
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How Long Does the MCAT Take?
The total testing time for the MCAT is about 7 hours and 30 minutes, including optional breaks. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Tutorial: 10 minutes (optional)
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems: 95 minutes
- Break: 10 minutes (optional)
- Critical Analysis and Reading Skills (CARS): 90 minutes
- Lunch Break: 30 minutes (optional)
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems: 95 minutes
- Break: 10 minutes (optional)
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior: 95 minutes
- End-of-Day Survey: 5 minutes
Given the length, endurance and mental stamina are just as important as academic preparation.
How Is the MCAT Scored?
Each of the four sections is scored individually from 118 to 132, with a median score of 125. Your total score is the sum of these four section scores, ranging from 472 to 528. The average total score among all test-takers hovers around 500. Percentile ranks are also provided, helping medical schools compare applicants fairly across different testing periods.
What Is the Passing Score on the MCAT?
There is technically no official passing score for the MCAT. However, most medical schools set their own minimum requirements. Generally, a score of 500 is considered around average, while competitive applicants often score 510 or above. Remember, a “passing” score might get your application considered, but a higher score significantly boosts your chances of admission to top programs. Your goal should be to aim for the highest score possible, not just the minimum.
Conclusion: Study Smart, Stay Focused, and Trust Your Plan
Preparing for the MCAT is one of the most challenging — and rewarding — parts of your journey to medical school. With so many prep options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but remember that success doesn’t come from owning every resource — it comes from using a few good ones effectively and consistently. Whether you choose to self-study using free tools like Khan Academy and Anki, supplement with UWorld and AAMC practice exams, or invest in structured programs like Kaplan, Blueprint, or Princeton Review, the key is to commit to a plan that fits your learning style, budget, and schedule. You can always get additional support if you need it to decide which resources to use.
Stay disciplined, focus on active learning and practice under realistic conditions, and take care of your physical and mental well-being throughout the process. With the right mindset and steady effort, you can walk into test day confident, prepared, and ready to achieve your best MCAT score.
This guide focused on the resources we personally recommend based on our tutoring experience. If you’d like a broader list based on reviews of multiple resources, be sure to check out this blog.
Good luck!
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