MCAT vs GRE: Length, Content & Which One You Need (2026)

Category	MCAT	GRE General Test
Administered by	AAMC	ETS
Who takes it	Medical school applicants (MD and DO)	Applicants to many graduate programs; some PA and health programs accept it
Format	230 questions in 4 sections; 6 h 15 min of testing, about 7 h 30 min seated	About 1 h 58 min: one essay plus two Verbal and two Quantitative sections
Passing standard	Scaled score, 472–528	Verbal and Quant scored separately; essay scored separately
Focus	Chemistry and physics, CARS, biology and biochemistry, psychology and sociology	Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing

Key differences

compare_arrowsLength: the MCAT has 230 questions and about 7.5 hours of seated time; the GRE is about 1 hour 58 minutes.
compare_arrowsContent: the MCAT tests science content and reasoning (chemistry, physics, biology, biochemistry, psychology, sociology); the GRE tests general verbal and quantitative skills.
compare_arrowsWriting: the GRE starts with one 30-minute "Analyze an Issue" essay; the MCAT has no essay.
compare_arrowsAdaptivity: the GRE's Verbal and Quant measures are section-level adaptive; the MCAT is not adaptive.
compare_arrowsUse: U.S. MD and DO schools ask for the MCAT; the GRE serves graduate programs, including some PA programs. Always check each program.

error Common mistakes

× Assuming a GRE score can replace the MCAT for MD or DO schools.
× Underestimating the MCAT’s length and science content.
× Not checking each PA or graduate program’s test requirements.

quiz Test yourself

Quick check

1. Which exam includes an essay?

Frequently asked questions

Is the MCAT harder than the GRE?expand_more

Most students find the MCAT more demanding because it is far longer and requires science content knowledge. The GRE is about two hours and tests general reasoning. Which feels harder depends on your background.

Can I use the GRE instead of the MCAT for medical school?expand_more

For U.S. MD and DO programs, plan on the MCAT. Some other health programs, including some PA programs, accept the GRE. Check each school's requirements.

How long is the new GRE?expand_more

ETS lists about 1 hour 58 minutes: an Analytical Writing task first (30 minutes), then two Verbal Reasoning and two Quantitative Reasoning sections in either order.

Do medical schools accept the GRE instead of the MCAT?expand_more

U.S. MD and DO schools ask for the MCAT. Some PA and other graduate health programs accept the GRE, so check each program’s requirements.

Which should I take if I’m deciding between medicine and PA?expand_more

Check the programs you’re most likely to apply to. Medical schools require the MCAT; many PA programs accept the GRE, and some accept or prefer the MCAT.

The bottom line

Applying to medical school? Take the MCAT. Applying to PA, public health or other graduate programs? Check each program; many use the GRE or no test.

Sources

Exam formats and product features change. Check the official pages above before you register or buy.

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How to Improve Your MCAT Score

MCAT vs GRE: Length, Content and Which One You Need

Key differences

Quick check

Frequently asked questions

The bottom line

Sources

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