IN the UK, only 10 per cent of applicants to medical school are successful in gaining a place. The competition is tough, but it is to be expected when the most intelligent and academically rigorous students are competing amongst themselves. The application process can be tricky as medical schools prefer different things, but they all base their degrees on preparing students for a career as a doctor in the National Health Services.
Medical schools agree that academic excellence, a genuine interest in medicine with an ability to undertake independent research, as well as the capability to work for and with the public are key aspects in being a successful candidate. There are variety of skills and traits that a student is expected to showcase alongside their academic potential. Medical schools will want you to be able to reflect on your past experience and explain how it shaped you as a person and what you learnt about yourself personally and professionally. A great way to gain and showcase relevant skills (such as care for the public) is to volunteer in care homes, hospitals, charities and community focused groups. Making regular notes will help you to reflect on these experiences and excel in your UCAS application.
Students applying for medical courses usually need to take one or more admissions test; the Bio-Medical Admissions Test (BMAT) or UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). These tests help universities choose between many highly academic applicants. A student’s score in these tests is a key piece of information used to select candidates for interviews. For best preparation you must practice regularly under strict exam conditions. A selection of medical schools will require candidates to pass the minimum threshold in order to qualify for the consideration of their application. Meaning, even an outstanding student might be rejected purely on the basis of below average UCAT or BMAT score. Even though the UCAT test can only be taken once a year, the score can improve vastly due to regular practice. For accurate and up-to-date information students must refer to their chosen medical school’s website.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, it’s important to know that medical schools use different interview methods such as more traditional panel or multiple-mini interviews (MMIs). Panel interviewers can be a combination of doctors, university professors or even the general public. Examiners tend to follow either pre-set questionnaires or let candidate answers drive their follow-up questions. In comparison, MMI style interviews are where students have a series of several mini-interviews lasting a few minutes, each interacting with a different interviewer/actor. This more practical test is designed to examine both educational and personal qualities, communicative ability, subject knowledge, ability to deal with ethical dilemmas, data analysis and empathy. This form of interview assesses their capacity to deal with challenging situations, respond confidently, remain calm and to think on their feet.
Medical schools are looking for candidates who have dedication, initiative, persistence and the ability to communicate well. While the process may seem challenging, the end result will be a rewarding career in a field that helps millions of people every day. Learn how, Bosworth Independent College can help to achieve the academic and personal goals necessary for medical professions at www.bosworthcollege.com or call 01604 235090.