Introduction
The BMAT is an admissions test used by the top universities in the UK. The courses which require the BMAT for the University of Cambridge are:
• A100 Medicine
• D100 Veterinary Medicine
More details can be found on the BMAT website
Components of the BMAT
The BMAT is a 2-hour test, divided into three sections (each on a separate booklet).
| Section 1 (Aptitude & Skills) | • 35 questions, MCQ or Short Answer questions • 60 minutes • Similar to the TSA • Involves understanding arguments, problem solving, and data analysis |
| Section 2 (Scientific Knowledge and Applications) | • 27 questions, MCQ or Short Answerquestions • 30 minutes • Is a science and math paper of SPM- standard • Involves Biology, Chemistry and Physics |
| Section 3 (Writing Task) | • An essay question • 30 minutes • Involves constructing arguments and developing ideas • Also similar to the Essay component of the TSA |
Preparation advice (a.k.a. how and when to panic)
It’s the same with any assessment; you need to practice and practice and practice. Make sure you know what you’re doing then try some practice questions. Think, rinse, repeat.
| Paper 1 | Since this section is similar to the TSA, you would benefit from reading and learning from those books. They give a clear structure on what to look out for in an argument and how to think about the questions, for example. Try out the past year questions for the TSA as well. |
| Paper 2 | This is just SPM-level science. It would help if you refreshed your knowledge by skimming through simple concepts which you have noted down before. Start revisiting it up to at least 2 months before and all the way to the exam. This gives you time to recall and practice. |
| Paper 3 | Practice planning your essays. There are many resources which you can use for this, both online and offline. Some of the essays run in a similar vein, so you can mix and match your points. It’s good to plan to organize your ideas so you know what to think and write about during the time constraint of the examination. Also, collaborate with your peers to discuss essay topics and see what you can come up with after brainstorming. Timed practice essays will help manage your time, too! |
Resources
1. Get into Medical School. 400 BMAT Practice Questions.
Publisher: ISCMedical
Authors: Lydia Campbell, Olivier Picard
2. How to Master the BMAT: Unbeatable Preparation for Success in the BMAT
Publisher: Kogan Page
Authors: Chris John Tyreman
3. Preparing for the BMAT: The Official Guide to the BMAT
Publisher: Heinemann
4. Thinking Skills
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Author: John Butterworth