How do I prepare for GAMSAT 2023?

Preparation for the GAMSAT is essential. Preparation will help you to achieve higher marks and it will also help to build your confidence and reduce your anxiety on the day. Read this article to discover how best to prepare for the GAMSAT 2023!

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Steps to prepare for the GAMSAT 2023:

  1. Register
  2. Start preparing early
  3. Make a study schedule
  4. Familiarise yourself with the exam
  5. Revise the content and theory
  6. Practice GAMSAT MCQs and write essays
  7. Get feedback and help
  8. Track your progress and highlight specific areas of difficulty
  9. Start practising under exam conditions
  10. Increase your reading in your spare time

1. Register.

The first step is to register for the GAMSAT. This can be done online, here. Registrations for September 2023 sitting will close on Tuesday 11 July 2023 at 1pm British Summer Time (BST). So make sure to get yourself register this year as soon as possible!

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    2. Start preparing early.

    It’s difficult to say how far in advance you should begin preparing as it will depend on your current level and background knowledge. The exam covers humanities, essay writing and science so you may find differing sections easier, depending on your background and previous studies. However, in general, it’s recommended to start at least 3 months before the GAMSAT.

    3. Make a study schedule

    To remain focused, make a realistic study schedule. Graduate students tend to lead busy lives, whether they’re in full time employment or finishing another degree, it can be hard to find time to set aside for the GAMSAT. Try to make a realistic study schedule and stick to it. Even an hour of study each week will help to improve your grade.

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    4. Familiarise yourself with the exam

    The GAMSAT consists of 3 sections which cover different content and are allocated different timings. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the different sections and prepare for each one separately. Here is a breakdown of the different sections and allocated time:

    SectionNo. of QuestionsReading timeWriting timeTotal test time
    Section 1: Reasoning in Humanities62 MCQs8
    minutes
    92 minutes100 minutes
    Section 2: Written Communication2 Essays5 minutes60 minutes65 minutes
    Section 3: Reasoning in Biological and Physical Sciences75 MCQs8 minutes142 minutes150 minutes

    5. Revise the content and the theory

    As mentioned, each of the three sections are quite different and require different preparation strategies. 

    For Section 1, you should revise the different question styles and types of units that can come up. For specific units such as poetry, you can improve your marks by studying poetry and the techniques and devices used.  For more information on section 1, check out our ‘10 Top Tips for Section 1’ guide.

    Section 2 involves essay writing and requires a different study approach. Create an ideas bank through reading and watching different forms of media and begin practicing writing essays on some of the common themes. Feedback on your essays is the best way to ensure your writing improves. We also have 10 Top Tips for Section 2 so make sure to read this to maximise your marks in section 2.

    Section 3 involves three science disciplines and it is a good idea to learn each of the topics that can arise in section 3, these can be found in our ‘10 Top Tips for Section 3’ guide.

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    6. Practice GAMSAT MCQs and write essays

    Familiarise yourself with Multiple Choice Questions; you are presented with 4 answer options for each question in the GAMSAT in sections 1 and 3. There are tips and tricks to answering MCQs and practising them will allow you to learn to use ‘process of elimination’ and will also help you to spot common traps. For section 2, there are no MCQs, just two essays so practice writing these.

    7. Get feedback and help

    Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and help. It can be great to get friends and family to read your essays, additionally our tutors are able to provide this. Check out our website and find out how a tutor can help you to achieve top marks in the GAMSAT 2023 to help you get into medical or dental school. 

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    8. Track your progress and highlight specific areas of difficulty

    The only way to improve is to work on your weaker areas. Make note of recurrent topics that you are finding difficult. This may be a specific style of question in section 1, e.g. cartoons, or a topic in section 3, e.g. radioactivity.

    Spend extra time on the areas you have found to be most difficult. Practising questions will help you to discover these and then you should take time to work on these. To improve your understanding of a topic, use online resources, tutoring, and look at our specific guides for each section and Best Rated Preparatory Material.

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    9. Start practising under exam conditions

    As you approach the exam, begin practising MCQs and essays under GAMSAT conditions. This means putting away the calculator, dictionary and Google! It’s also a good idea to time yourself and stick to the timings used in the GAMSAT. This will give you a realistic idea of your capabilities and allow you to work on any other areas of improvement.

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    10.  Increase your reading in your spare time

    As mentioned in top tips for section 1 and 2, reading in your spare time will help to increase your reading time. Additionally, reading various books, newspapers and magazines will give you ideas for your section 2 essays.

    The GAMSAT is a long exam (4.45 hours) and has various different aspects. It can be a daunting challenge but preparation is key. Check out our other blogs for top tips for each section and please get in touch if you’re considering tutoring for the GAMSAT 2023. 

    Feel free to leave a comment or question below.

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      Frequently Asked Question

      →What is GAMSAT 2023?

      GAMSAT 2023 is the Graduate Medical School Admissions Test, an exam used by medical schools in Australia, Ireland, and the UK to assess applicants for graduate-entry medical programs.

      →What is the best way to prepare for GAMSAT?

      Follow the following top 10 tips to prepare for GAMSAT 2021: 1) Register, 2)Start Preparing early, 3)Make a study schedule, 4)Familiarise yourself with the exam and the different sections, 5)Revise the content and theory, 6)Practice GAMSAT MCQ questions and write essays, 7) Get feedback and help, 8)Track your progress and highlight specific areas of difficulty, 9) start practising MCQs and essays under exam conditions, 10) Increase your reading in your spare time.

      →When should I start preparing for GAMSAT?

      Start preparing for the GAMSAT at least 3 months before you intend to sit the test. The testing window is between the 8-12 September 2023.

      →Is one month enough for GAMSAT?

      While it is possible to prepare for the GAMSAT in one month, it may not be enough time for everyone, as the exam is highly competitive and requires extensive knowledge and skills.

      The amount of time required to prepare for the GAMSAT depends on various factors, such as the student’s background knowledge, study habits, and availability to devote to exam preparation. Generally, it is recommended that students should prepare for at least 3-6 months before the exam to give themselves sufficient time to develop the skills and knowledge required to perform well.

      However, if you are planning to take the GAMSAT in one month, it is important to have a focused study plan and to use your time effectively. This may involve prioritizing your study materials and focusing on the areas where you need the most improvement.

      It is also important to practice past GAMSAT papers and to take timed practice exams to simulate the exam conditions and develop time management skills. Seek out additional resources such as online tutorials, study groups, and tutors to supplement your preparation.

      In summary, while one month may be sufficient for some students to prepare for the GAMSAT, it is generally recommended to prepare for a longer period of time to give yourself the best chance of achieving a high score.

      →How long does it take to prepare for GAMSAT?

      It’s difficult to say how far in advance you should begin preparing as it will depend on your current level and background knowledge. The exam covers humanities, essay writing and science so you may find differing sections easier, depending on your background and previous studies. However, in general, it’s recommended to start at least 3 months before.

      →What resources are available for GAMSAT 2023 preparation?

      There are a variety of resources available for GAMSAT 2023 preparation, including textbooks, study guides, online courses, and practice tests. It’s important to choose resources that are specifically designed for GAMSAT preparation and that have a proven track record of success.

      →What are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing for GAMSAT 2023?

      Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing for GAMSAT 2023:

      Underestimating the exam: The GAMSAT is a challenging exam that requires extensive knowledge and skills in various areas. Don’t underestimate the level of difficulty of the exam and make sure you have a realistic understanding of what the exam involves.

      Not following a study plan: It’s important to have a study plan and stick to it. Failing to follow a plan can lead to a lack of focus and ineffective use of study time.

      Focusing only on your strengths: It’s natural to want to focus on the areas where you excel, but it’s important to dedicate time to your weaker areas as well. Focus on improving your weaknesses to achieve a well-rounded score.

      Not practicing enough: Practice is essential to perform well in the GAMSAT. Make sure to practice past papers and take timed practice exams to simulate the exam conditions.

      Procrastinating: It’s easy to put off studying, but procrastination can lead to cramming and ineffective learning. Create a schedule and stick to it to avoid procrastination.

      Not seeking help: It’s okay to ask for help if you’re struggling with a concept or section of the exam. Seek out resources such as tutors, study groups, and online forums to supplement your learning.

      Not taking care of yourself: Don’t neglect self-care during the exam preparation period. Make sure to prioritize sleep, exercise, and healthy eating habits to maintain your physical and mental health.

      By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of performing well on the GAMSAT and achieving your desired score.

      →What are some tips for successful GAMSAT 2023 preparation?

      Some tips for successful GAMSAT 2023 preparation include setting clear study goals, creating a study schedule, focusing on your weaknesses, practicing timed tests, seeking support from peers or tutors, and staying motivated and disciplined throughout the preparation process.

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