Physical Sciences
Time: 70 minutes
Format: 52 multiple-choice questions
Topics Tested: General Chemistry, Basic Physics, Analytical Reasoning, Data Interpretation
The content tested on the physical sciences section is drawn from physics and general chemistry. Chemistry concepts you can expect to see include quantum numbers, the Periodic Table, reaction types, bonding, phases of matter, and acids and bases. Physics concepts include Newtonian mechanics, thermodynamics, magnetism, light and optics, nuclear physics, and atomic phenomena.
Verbal Reasoning
Time: 60 minutes
Format: Total of 40 multiple questions
Topics Tested: Critical Reading
The Verbal Reasoning section tests your ability to read critically and actively, comprehend written material, recognizing the main idea of a passage, get a feel for a writer's tone, and draw inferences and conclusions.
Writing Sample
Time: 60 minutes
Format: 2 essay questions (30 minutes per essay)
Topics Tested: Critical Thinking, Intellectual Organization, Written Communication
The Writing Sample requires you to write two essays. Tthe Writing Sample tends to be underestimated by MCAT test takers. Many applicants think that they can perform well just by applying their everyday writing skills, which is a dangerous presumption. In every facet, the MCAT is a test of analytical reasoning—even in the Writing Sample.
Biological Sciences
Time: 70 minutes
Format: Total of 52 multiple questions
Topics Tested: Biology, Organic Chemistry, Data Interpretation, Analytical Reasoning
The Biological Sciences section is very similar in structure to the Physical Sciences section. Questions in this section are drawn from biology and organic chemistry (with a slightly greater emphasis on biology). Biology concepts include cell division, muscular and skeletal systems, the lymphatic system, respiratory and circulatory systems, enzymatic activity, viruses, and the nervous system. Organic chemistry concepts include nomenclature, stereochemistry, spectroscopy, hydrocarbons, amino acids and proteins, laboratory techniques, and hydrolysis and dehydration.