Preparing for GAMSAT
Traditionally we are used to working towards exams with a detailed syllabus to guide us. We know what to expect and usually have lots of past papers to work through, so the element of surprise is minimal. Preparing for the GAMSAT is far more challenging. In terms of the sciences, the level of Biology and Chemistry knowledge equates to first-year undergraduate level, whilst Physics is A-level (or equivalent) standard. For those coming from a non-science background this can be daunting, and for those with a science background knowing what to cover and to what depth can be equally challenging.
There are five booklets of practice and sample questions that are produced by the examination board, ACER. These are the only materials they issue which provide some exposure to the style of questions encountered on the examination. Trying to learn undergraduate level Biology and Chemistry, and A level Physics, in a short time is an impossible task. The key is to understand what ACER are looking for in potential medical students, and know how to approach the relevant areas. Our task is to provide you with the knowledge and the application of topics, which will be of use not just for GAMSAT, but at medical school and beyond. It is not uncommon for our students to tell us they still use the notes produced with us later at medical school. This is where our twenty plus years of experience comes to the fore.