The Graduate Record Exam is a standardized test that is generally required for graduate school applicants. Medical schools typically do not require applicants to take the GRE. The Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT, is the standardized exam medical school applicants must typically complete. Medical school admissions offices consider MCAT scores important components for predicting applicants' success in medical programs.


The GRE tests critical, analytical, quantitative, cognitive, and verbal reasoning skills. Graduate degree programs commonly require GRE scores as part of the application for admissions process. Medical schools, however, generally do not require the GRE exam for admission. Medical schools in the United States and Canada generally require applicants to submit MCAT scores for consideration.


The MCAT, similar to the GRE, tests verbal reasoning and comprehension skills. However, the MCAT also focuses on academic areas in which medical students must excel. Namely, the MCAT tests heavily on biology and physical science. The MCAT consists of approximately 142 multiple choice questions and is administered in 4.5 hours.

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