What is a Good MCAT Score? (2025 MD vs. DO Data)
The Magic Number: 511
According to the latest AAMC data, the average MCAT score for students matriculating into MD schools is 511.9.
This means if you score a 512, you are statistically “safe” for an average US medical school (assuming your GPA and extracurriculars are also average).
Percentiles Breakdown
The MCAT is scored on a curve. Here is what the numbers actually mean:
| Score | Percentile | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 520+ | 98th+ | Elite. Competitive for Top 10 schools (Harvard, Hopkins, Stanford). |
| 515-519 | 90th-96th | Excellent. Competitive for almost any MD school. |
| 510-514 | 80th-88th | Solid. The “sweet spot” for most state MD schools. |
| 505-509 | 65th-78th | Borderline MD / Strong DO. You might get into your state MD school, but DO schools are a safer bet. |
| 500-504 | 48th-61st | Competitive DO. You are a strong candidate for DO schools, but MD is unlikely without a special hook. |
| <500 | <48th | Retake Territory. Most schools screen out applicants below 500. |
MD vs. DO
- MD (Allopathic) Average: ~512
- DO (Osteopathic) Average: ~504
If you score a 505, you should strongly consider applying to DO schools. The education is equivalent, and you can still match into competitive residencies, though it is slightly harder.
Section Scores Matter
It’s not just about the total. Schools look at your section breakdown.
- Balanced is Best: A 128/128/128/128 (512) is better than a 132/122/130/128 (512).
- The 125 Cutoff: Many schools have a “soft cutoff” of 125 per section. If you score a 123 in CARS, your application might be auto-screened out, even if your total score is high.
When Should You Retake?
You should retake if:
- Your score is below 500.
- Your score is more than 3 points below your practice test average.
- You are aiming for MD and scored below 508.
Do NOT retake if:
- You scored a 513 and want a 515. The risk of going down is not worth the potential marginal gain.
- You are burnt out and haven’t changed your study strategy. Insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results.