Knowing what to expect from the GAMSAT

Most people sitting the GAMSAT® Exam have a fair idea of what each section involves, but it’s also a good idea to be familiar with what the actual day will entail, so that you don’t have to worry about any of the logistics, and can focus on doing your absolute best in the exam.

With that in mind, here are a few things you can do in advance to help things run smoothly on the day:
 

1. Research the venue: 
   That means knowing where you will be sitting the test, having a look at what’s around (parking, train stations, food outlets etc.), and if you’ve got time, even doing a drive-by to get a lay of the land.
    
2. Plan your trip:
   Figure out how you will get there.  If you’re driving, make sure you look at parking facilities in advance and allow A LOT of extra time to get in and park (most of the major GAMSAT® Exam venues have traffic round the block on GAMSAT® Exam day).  If you’re catching public transport, make sure you check timetables and allow extra time for delays.  If you arrive early (which frankly, you should), try to avoid the crowds of nervous people and instead grab a coffee at a nearby café, or go for a walk.
    
3. Don’t forget anything: 
   Print off your attendance ticket and put it in your wallet and then you know you’ve got the most important things (ticket and photo ID) taken care of.  I also find that leaving a little checklist on top of my bag or keys (something I know I can’t leave the house without) helps with that ‘I feel like I’ve forgotten something’ unease.
    
4. Pack a lunch:
   Even if there are shops nearby, they may not be open or they may have huge lines.  You don’t have that long for lunch, so you want to be able to eat, relax and use the bathroom (there will be queues for that too) without any time pressure.  It’s also a good idea to use a cooler bag in case it’s hot weather.
    
5. Plan something fun for afterwards:
   Make a dinner booking, plan a night out with friends, or even just have a nice bottle of wine or a good movie handy.  It’s going to be a long, hard day, so make sure you reward yourself when it’s all over.

If you'd like to put in some last minute practice, take advantage of our library of Free GAMSAT Practice Questions and Materials. 

Erica Danieletto is currently studying a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Sydney.