If you’re planning on taking the GAMSAT in the next 12-24 months, you’re probably already thinking about how to prepare. You’ll need to pass the GAMSAT in order to progress in your chosen career, so it really does have a significant impact on your future.
While you can re-take the GAMSAT if you don’t do as well as you’d like, there are only two assessments each year. With thousands of candidates enrolling for assessments in March and September, it may be some time before you can re-take your assessment. As a result, you may need to take a gap year and re-start the application process, which means you won’t be able to secure a place at university or med school for at least another 12 months.
With so much riding on the results of your GAMSAT assessment, it’s easy to see why candidates feel under so much pressure. While it’s understandable to feel nervous as your GAMSAT date approaches, comprehensive preparation can help you to retain a calm and composed outlook.
Of course, having a thorough understanding of the GAMSAT and what it entails can help to minimise your fears too. With this in mind, take a look at what you need to know to prepare for the GAMSAT and boost your confidence now:
- Planning when to sit your exam
Generally, you can take the GAMSAT in either March or September, but you’ll need to register by either early February or mid-July if you want to secure a place. It’s worth noting, however, that the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) have been forced to adjust this year’s exam dates due to the impact of COVID-19. It’s possible, therefore, that further modifications will continue to be made into 2021, so check the website regularly to keep up to date with any changes to the usual protocols.
- Organising the logistics
If you’re sitting the GAMSAT in a test centre, you’ll need to ensure you can access it easily on the day. With thousands of students all travelling to the same location on the same day, there is the potential for disarray and confusion, which is the last thing you need when you’re preparing to sit a major exam.
To avoid last-minute dramas, many students prefer to stay close to the test centre the day prior to their assessment. While this can be a great way to ensure you’re feeling calm and relaxed on the day, you may need to book early if you want to secure a place to stay.
- Learning more about the GAMSAT
The GAMSAT is essential if you want to enter the medical profession but it’s different from any exam you’ve sat before. This, in itself, can make the process rather daunting. However, there are ways to familiarise yourself with the format of the test and the types of answers you’ll be expected to give.
One of the most effective ways to prepare yourself for the GAMSAT is with dedicated courses. Whether you attend in person or online, this level of training and focus will streamline your preparation and ensure you’re ready to tackle anything that may come up during the assessment. With access to tips from experienced tutors and successful candidates available online, at sites such as you can learn more about the test from people in the know.
- Focusing on critical analysis
Many exams test your specific knowledge and subject recall but the GAMSAT takes a markedly different approach. When taking the GAMSAT, you’ll be assessed on your critical thinking skills and your ability to analyse subjects, theories and hypotheses.
Learning how to analyse concepts and applying them effectively doesn’t happen overnight, particularly to the high calibre that’s expected of GAMSAT candidates. Fortunately, the right GAMSAT prep courses will give you plenty of opportunity to hone your skills. With the ability to sit a mock exam, you can recreate the conditions of the assessment and test yourself in a time-sensitive environment. What’s more, you can obtain feedback and critique on your mock assessments, which will prove invaluable in helping you to prepare for your actual exam.
Pass the GAMSAT the First Time
If you want to avoid having to retake the GAMSAT, it’s important to devote enough time to your preparation. Although most candidates will be working and/or preparing for other exams at the same time, don’t underestimate the level of prep that’s required. With structured courses and custom prep sessions, however, you can reduce the amount of time it takes to fully prepare for the GAMSAT and give yourself the best chance of passing the exam with flying colours.
