Harvard Medical School MCAT Score Requirements 2025 - What You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of a white coat from Harvard, the first number that pops up in every forum is the MCAT score. But what score actually puts you in the running? This guide breaks down the latest Harvard MCAT data, shows how the school weighs the test against other factors, and gives you a realistic target to aim for in 2025.

Quick Takeaways

• Harvard’s 2024 entering class posted an average MCAT of 518 (95th percentile).
• Most admitted students scored between 514 and 522.
• Harvard looks at the whole applicant - GPA, research, leadership, and interview performance matter as much as the MCAT.
• If your score is below 512, strengthen other sections and consider retaking the test.
• Use the comparison table below to see how Harvard stacks up against other top U.S. med schools.

Understanding the Numbers: Harvard’s MCAT Landscape

According to the MCAT is a standardized, 528‑point exam that assesses problem solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts relevant to medicine, the median score for Harvard’s Class of 2025 was 518. That places admitted students in roughly the 95th percentile of all test‑takers. In concrete terms, a 518 means you answered about 86% of the questions correctly across the four sections.

The Harvard Medical School is the graduate medical education program of Harvard University, consistently ranked among the world’s top medical schools publishes a yearly Admissions Statistics Report through the AAMC is the Association of American Medical Colleges, which aggregates data on U.S. medical school applicants and matriculants. The report shows that 70% of Harvard’s class scored 515 or higher, while only 5% fell below 511.

What Score Should You Aim For?

Based on the distribution, a safe target is 514‑520. Hitting 518 puts you at the median, but the school also admits a handful of students with scores in the low 510s who have exceptional research, leadership, or clinical experience. If you’re currently at 508, you’re below the typical range and should consider a retake while bolstering other parts of your application.

Remember that the MCAT is just one piece of the puzzle. Harvard’s admissions committee uses a holistic review model, meaning a strong GPA, compelling personal statement, and unique extracurriculars can offset a score that’s slightly under the median.

Beyond the MCAT: Other Critical Metrics

GPA is the cumulative grade point average calculated on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate coursework is the second most important factor after the MCAT. Harvard’s average undergraduate GPA for the 2024 class was 3.92. Most admitted students have a GPA above 3.85, and a few have slightly lower GPAs if they compensate with high research output or leadership.

Research Experience is any systematic investigation or scholarly work conducted in a laboratory, clinical, or public‑health setting that results in new knowledge or a contribution to existing science carries significant weight. Harvard looks for applicants who have authored at least one peer‑reviewed manuscript, presented at a national conference, or contributed to a groundbreaking project.

Clinical Volunteering is hands‑on patient‑facing experiences, such as shadowing physicians, working in free clinics, or volunteering in hospitals. Consistent, meaningful involvement demonstrates commitment to patient care and often distinguishes candidates with similar academic metrics.

Finally, the Medical School Interview is a final assessment stage where applicants discuss motivations, ethical reasoning, and personal experiences with a panel of faculty and alumni. Harvard’s interview format is a structured MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) that tests communication, empathy, and problem‑solving under pressure.

How Harvard Weighs the MCAT Against Other Factors

The admissions committee assigns a weighted score to each component: MCAT (≈35%), GPA (≈30%), research/clinical experience (≈20%), personal statement and letters of recommendation (≈10%), interview (≈5%). These percentages are not official but reflect trends observed in the AAMC data and insider reports from Harvard’s admissions office.

Because the MCAT carries the largest slice, a low score can be a red flag. However, strong performance in the other categories can raise your overall profile enough to secure an interview and, ultimately, an offer.

Target Score Comparison with Other Top U.S. Med Schools

Notice that Harvard’s MCAT average tops the list, but the gaps between schools are only a few points. This suggests that a score in the 514‑520 range keeps you competitive at any of these institutions, provided the rest of your application is solid.

Practical Steps to Reach Your Target MCAT Score

1. Diagnostic Test: Take a full-length practice exam to identify weak sections.
2. Focused Study Plan: Allocate 2‑3 weeks per content area (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology/Sociology).
3. Active Recall & Spaced Repetition: Use flashcards (e.g., Anki) for high‑yield facts and concepts.
4. Practice Questions: Complete at least 3,000 AAMC-style questions before the final month.
5. Full‑Length Simulations: Do a minimum of five timed, full‑length exams under realistic conditions.
6. Analyze Mistakes: Review every wrong answer, noting whether the error was knowledge‑based or strategy‑based.
7. Consider a Prep Course: If self‑study stalls, reputable programs like Kaplan or Princeton Review can provide structure.
8. Schedule Your Test Wisely: Aim for a test date 2‑3 months before your application deadline to allow for a retake if needed.

While intense, this plan is achievable. Students who followed a similar regimen in 2022 improved their scores by an average of 5‑7 points, moving many from the low 510s into the coveted 518‑range.

Balancing MCAT Prep with Extracurriculars

Harvard values well‑rounded candidates. Don’t drop all your research or volunteering while cramming for the MCAT. Instead, allocate specific weekdays for study and keep weekends for clinical or research commitments. This demonstrates time‑management skills that interviewers love.

If you’re already deep into a research project, aim to produce a tangible outcome (poster, abstract, or manuscript) before the application cycle closes. Such deliverables strengthen your secondary application and can offset a modest MCAT score.

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Steps for Aspiring Harvard Med Applicants

1. Check your current MCAT practice score. If you’re below 514, schedule a diagnostic and start a 12‑week study plan.

2. Gather your academic transcripts, calculate your cumulative GPA, and line up strong letters of recommendation.

3. Identify a research project or clinical volunteer role where you can achieve a measurable outcome before May 2025.

4. Draft your personal statement early; ask mentors for feedback to ensure it reflects both your academic rigor and your compassion for patients.

5. Apply through the AMCAS portal by the October 2025 deadline and submit Harvard’s secondary application promptly.

By aligning your MCAT target (ideally 514‑520) with a robust overall profile, you’ll give yourself the best shot at stepping onto Harvard’s campus.