GAMSAT Preparation – The Right Time To Start

So you have made up your mind and decided upon a medical career. But when do you seriously start preparing for GAMSAT? Should you start preparing for it in the first year of your undergrads itself or wait until the second year? It is actually never too early to start preparing for GAMSAT, once you are sure of what you want.

GAMSAT does not have a set syllabus. But do not worry as there is a method to the madness. However, it is important that you get a clear basic idea of what to expect when you actually sit for it. Utilise the ACER websites and other online resources well. Do make it a habit to share and receive feedback on GAMSAT related forums in order to avoid common mistakes.

A common query of most students is whether to start preparing for GAMSAT in the first year of degree itself. While it may seem too early to start worrying about a medical school entry program even before you start university, it is not a bad idea to begin assimilating basic concepts and scientific facts. These will be helpful even in the first year of your undergraduate course if you have taken up science major.

However, there is a flip side to this too. Students often get too carried away with GAMSAT preparations and neglect their degree course. A decent grade is essential for a good GPA score – your ticket to GAMSAT. GAMSAT is designed for students who have completed at least two years of university and developed a certain intellectual level. Also, GAMSAT scores have a validity period of only two years. So, your first attempt results do not hold for the full three year period of trial. Money is another consideration. Applying for GAMSAT does not come cheap (around $300 – $400). If you can shell it out, giving it a try in the first year is not a bad investment. You will gain insight into the nature of the questions and also understand the specific areas you need to put in more work.

The best way is to start thinking about it at the end of first year if your course is three years and at the end of second year if your course is of a four-year span.

A word of advice – GAMSAT does not make it mandatory for you to have a science major. If you are more comfortable with literature, take it up as a major and take science subjects as electives. It will keep your options open if you change your mind later. What is most important is developing interpersonal and analysing skills. GAMSAT tests these skills extensively and the format of the question is designed to do so. Read as much as you can and not just textbooks. Reading can become a double delight that both entertains as well as prepares you for GAMSAT. And don’t forget to enjoy your university life. Those years don’t come back.