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Mitchell, K.J.; Haynes, R. Score Reporting for the 1991 Medical College Admission Test. Academic Medicine, 65;719-723, 1990.

PURPOSE: This study presents data used by the MCAT Evaluation Panel in determining the score scale for the updated MCAT.

METHODS: Data on the variability in the use of MCAT scores within and across institutional applicant pools were gathered from 113 U.S. and Canadian medical schools through a survey that carried a 78% response rate. The survey asked admissions officers to divide the 15-point MCAT score scale into categories representing exemplary, acceptable, and unacceptable performance levels. Their response patterns were plotted to examine the variability in exemplary and acceptable levels. These data were then used to determine the score levels associated with a 50-50 probability of acceptance at a sample of 10 representative institutions. Average MCAT scores associated with .50 probability of acceptance are reported along with proportions of applicants falling into various "selection zones," that is, when probability of acceptance was between .25 and .75 and when it was above .75.

RESULTS: Survey data revealed that MCAT score data are regarded in different ways by admissions officials both within an institution's applicant pool and across medical school applicant pools. Respondents reported they preferred score-reporting systems with multiple score points rather than a pass/fail scale. Selection zone data revealed wide variation across institutions in score levels associated with a 50-50 chance of acceptance.

CONCLUSIONS: The Evaluation Panel considered both a pass/fail reporting system and an interval-level scoring scale similar to the 15-point reporting scheme but concluded that because medical schools have such diverse needs a test score scale with numerous gradations was useful. The authors concluded that the data demonstrated the value of the previously used reporting system and led the Evaluation Panel to recommend retention of the 15-point MCAT score scale for the updated MCAT.