MCAT Accommodations
Extra time on the MCAT is not automatic — the AAMC review takes 60+ days and requires clinical documentation.
The AAMC grants MCAT accommodations under the ADA for documented disabilities, but the process is slower and more evidence-driven than most standardized tests. This guide explains eligibility, documentation, common accommodation types, timelines, and how to plan your registration around review delays.
- Time-and-a-half is the most common MCAT accommodation, followed by double time.
- Applications require recent clinical documentation of a diagnosed condition.
- AAMC review takes 60+ days — register accordingly and never wait until the last minute.
Eligibility
Who qualifies for MCAT accommodations under the ADA.
The AAMC evaluates each request individually against ADA criteria. Approved accommodations require a documented disability that substantially limits a major life activity — not just a preference for more time.
- ADHD, learning disabilities, and processing disorders.
- Physical and mobility disabilities.
- Chronic medical conditions (e.g., diabetes requiring monitoring during exam).
- Psychiatric conditions with functional impact.
- Visual, hearing, and sensory disabilities.
Documentation
The documentation the AAMC requires — and why weak documentation gets denied.
The AAMC's most common denial reason is insufficient documentation. Your qualified professional must provide a comprehensive report, not just a diagnosis letter, and testing should be recent (usually within 5 years for most conditions, 3 years for ADHD/LD in some cases).
- Diagnosis with DSM-5/ICD codes.
- History of the condition and treatment.
- Objective testing results (psychoeducational, neuropsych, medical).
- Explanation of functional impact on test-taking specifically.
- Specific accommodations requested with clinical justification.
A one-page letter from your doctor is almost always denied. Plan on a full evaluation report from a qualified professional.
Common Types
Which MCAT accommodations are actually granted.
The AAMC offers a defined set of accommodations. Time-and-a-half is by far the most common approval; less-standard requests require stronger documentation.
- 50% additional time (most common).
- 100% additional time (double time).
- Additional or extended breaks.
- Separate testing room.
- Permission to bring medical supplies (glucose monitors, insulin, etc.).
- Assistive technology (large print, screen reader).
Timeline
Register early — the review is slow and reapplications take even longer.
The AAMC's official processing time is 60 days from receipt of a complete application, but many students report longer waits during peak seasons. Denials can be appealed, but each appeal adds weeks.
- 60+ days minimum for initial review.
- Reapplication after denial: another 60 days.
- Register a test date at least 90-120 days out.
- Do NOT register for the exam before you know your accommodation decision.
If accommodations are denied, you can appeal, reapply with stronger documentation, or test without accommodations. All three are legitimate paths.