MCAT Exam Fees 2026

The MCAT Exam Fees 2026 are set by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and vary depending on registration type, location, and timing. For standard registration, the fee is ₹29,550 (355 USD), while students approved under the Fee Assistance Program pay a reduced fee of ₹12,070 (145 USD). Candidates testing outside the US, Canada, or US territories must also pay an international testing surcharge of ₹10,830 (130 USD). 

Additional costs of MCAT Exam apply for rescheduling or cancellations, with fees increasing as the test date approaches. Refunds are partial and depend on when the cancellation is made, while the international surcharge is non‑refundable. Payments can be made online using major credit or debit cards, and deadlines are strictly enforced at 11:59 p.m. local test center time. 

Check out: MCAT Exam Eligibility 2025: Requirements and Application Guide

MCAT Exam Fee Breakdown 2026: Registration and Costs

The MCAT Exam Fees in India 2026 are determined by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and vary based on registration type, location, and timing. Below is the complete breakdown of costs for Indian students planning to take the MCAT in 2026.

Key Highlights:

• The international testing fee is non‑refundable even if you cancel.
• Fee Assistance Program reduces registration and rescheduling costs significantly.
• All deadlines are enforced at 11:59 p.m. local test center time.
• Payments can be made via major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover).

MCAT Fee Waivers

The exam conducting body, the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), is aware that for some people, the cost of the MCAT exam might be a hardship. They provide a Fee Assistance Programme (FAP) for qualified candidates to lessen this load. For individuals who can prove a severe need for financial help, the FAP offers discounted MCAT exam expenses. However, this waiver is only limited to US citizens.  

Also Read: MCAT Exam Pattern 2026

MCAT Exam Payment Methods and Registration Deadlines

For the convenience of test takers, the AAMC provides a variety of MCAT fee payment options. Usually, credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid gift cards are accepted forms of payment. Notable exclusions include cash, money orders, and personal checks.

Payment Methods

The MCAT Exam Fees 2026 must be paid online through the official AAMC registration portal. Accepted payment options include:

• Credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover
• Debit cards: Linked to major card networks
• Prepaid cards: Accepted if they carry one of the above logos
• Electronic checks (U.S. only): Available for domestic candidates

Important: Cash, bank transfers, or personal checks are not accepted. Taxes may apply depending on your test location.

Registration Deadlines

MCAT registration follows strict timelines, and all deadlines close at 11:59 p.m. local test center time.

• Opening of registration: Seats are released months in advance, typically in October for January–June exams and February for July–September exams.
• Regular registration deadline: About 1 month before the test date.
• Late registration deadline: Extends up to 10 days before the exam, but late fees apply.
• Rescheduling/cancellation deadlines:
  • ≥ 60 days before exam → lowest fees/refunds
  • 30–59 days before exam → moderate fees/refunds
  • 10–29 days before exam → highest fees, no refunds after cancellation

Also read: What is a Good MCAT Score, and How is it Calculated

MCAT Exam Fee Refunds and Cancellation Policy 2026

The MCAT Exam Fee Refunds and Cancellation Policy 2026 is designed to give students flexibility while ensuring fairness. Refunds depend on when you cancel, and rescheduling fees increase as the exam date approaches.

Standard Policy

Fee Assistance Program Policy

Students approved under the Fee Assistance Program receive reduced cancellation fees:

Check out: MCAT Exam Syllabus for 2026 

Additional MCAT Exam Fee Considerations and Student Resources

Beyond registration, rescheduling, and cancellation costs, students should be aware of several additional MCAT exam fee considerations that can impact their budget and planning.

Extra Costs to Keep in Mind

• International Testing Fee: ₹10,830 (130 USD), non‑refundable if you test outside the US, Canada, or US territories.
• Late Registration Fees: Higher charges apply if you register close to the exam date.
• Travel & Accommodation: For international test centers, students should budget for flights, lodging, and meals.
• Taxes & Processing Fees: Depending on your location, local taxes may be added to the exam fee.

Student Resources for Managing MCAT Costs

• Fee Assistance Program (FAP): Offers reduced registration (₹12,070 / 145 USD) and lower rescheduling/cancellation fees.
• AAMC Official Website: Provides up‑to‑date fee schedules, deadlines, and policy changes.
• Khan Academy MCAT Prep: Free practice materials to reduce reliance on costly prep courses.
• Financial Aid Offices: Many universities guide students on budgeting for exam fees and related expenses.
• MCAT Prep Scholarships: Some organizations offer grants or discounts for test prep services.

Also read: Top MCAT Preparation Tips 

Conclusion

The MCAT Exam Fees 2026 require careful planning, especially for Indian students balancing registration, international surcharges, and rescheduling costs. With standard fees at ₹29,550 (355 USD) and reduced rates through the Fee Assistance Program, understanding deadlines and refund policies is essential to avoid extra charges. Since the international testing fee is non‑refundable, candidates should confirm test centers early. By budgeting for exam fees, travel, and preparation resources, students can focus on achieving strong scores. Staying updated with AAMC guidelines ensures financial clarity and helps aspirants move confidently toward their medical school journey

If you want clarity on your next steps, you can book a free counseling session with upGrad. Someone from the team will walk you through your options and answer your questions.