Does the MCAT allow scratch paper?

[Bunny Fru Fru]

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I'm taking the MCAT for the first time in the next few weeks. I really need scratch paper for my brain to work properly. Do they provide scratch paper? I doubt that I can bring it in.
Just trying to prepare myself. Freakin' out a bit.

 

[JFK90787]

You are provided with scratch paper and a pencil. At my test center they made you turn your pockets inside out to make sure you weren't carrying anything else, I assume it's the same everywhere

 

[Bunny Fru Fru]

Thank you so much for answering this question. I'm taking the MCAT very soon and I'm trying to stay calm.

 

[CapnCrunch]

Don't worry about bringing anything to the test center.

You will be provided with a test booklet (most of the time) and one or two pencils.

The only thing you need to provide is a valid government issued ID (driver's license) and your lovely fingers for scanning. It's also a good idea to bring some snacks and water for consumption during your breaks. Generally, they hold this for you.

I wasn't allowed to access my phone, keys, wallet (basically anything I brought which wasn't food) during the entire test nor was I allowed to go outside. Only the restroom during breaks. Also, some people bring a jacket or a sweatshirt in case the testing center is really cold.

Don't be intimidated by the test. It always "harder" when you're talking the real thing. Good luck!

 

[jc14]

http://www.aamc.org/students/mcat/taking/start.htm

Might be helpful to look over, especially familiarizing what ID you need to bring, etc, if you haven't already done so.

 

[jc14]

I wasn't allowed to access my phone, keys, wallet (basically anything I brought which wasn't food) during the entire test nor was I allowed to go outside. Only the restroom during breaks. Also, some people bring a jacket or a sweatshirt in case the testing center is really cold.

Must depend where you take it, because the testing center I went to didn't care?

 

[CapnCrunch]

It must be dependent on the testing center. Though, when you're taking the test, the rules are consistent for everyone.

I also believe that some centers provide noise-canceling headphones if you're someone who needs them.

 

[Ilovewater]

Some places give you a laminated sheet of paper, a marker, and an eraser. If they do...make sure your marker has ink. I had to get up 4 times because every marker they gave me ran out of ink.

 

[RB93]

Also, the paper will sometimes be a particular color (so they can easily see it's their own). My paper was bright pink and it was a little hard to see the pencil writing on it, but you gotta go with what they give you. I've heard of other people having bright yellow paper. You can't bring in any of your own stuff. I'd also definitely recommend using their earplugs because people start the test at different times (and some people are taking different tests altogether), so it can get a little distracting.

 

[Geekchick921]

Quick question, guys. When you get to the test center, in the waiting room, you're allowed to have food and drinks with you, right? I don't think I'll have finished my ginormous cup of Dunkin Donuts by the time I get there.

 

[JFK90787]

Yes you can have food in the waiting area. Hopefully I don't get another tempban for posting MCAT specifics 🙄

 

[Geekchick921]

LOL, JFK I don't think so. Thanks for the answer.

 

[mangareader]

Sure you can bring a piece of scratch paper. Just make sure nobody sees it.