Deciding on whether it’s better to self-study or enrol for
GAMSAT tuition can be difficult. The GAMSAT® exam is challenging and attracts many high-achieving and motivated individuals. It is important to prepare adequately for the exam and give yourself the best chance of succeeding, however there are often considerable financial costs associated with hiring a tutor, enrolling in a GAMSAT® course, or purchasing an MCQ bank. On top of this, there are countless tutors and preparation companies – how do I know which GAMSAT tuition is right for me?
Here, we will look at the different options that you can utilise when preparing for the GAMSAT® exam and how they shape up against each other.
GAMSAT Tuition Option 1: Self-Study
The first option you have is preparing for the exam on your own. This could involve using free essay prompt generators and free resources from ACER. Whilst this may be a good starting point for GAMSAT® study, these resources are generally quite limited and will only get you so far.
GAMSAT textbooks tend to be quite expensive and may be outdated in the information it gives, especially considering the large number of changes to the GAMSAT® exam in the past few years. This method also requires a large amount of self-determination and discipline, as you will be solely responsible for your study. This option may be feasible for those who have sat the GAMSAT® previously and have a good grasp on the examination requirements. They may also require a support system that is willing and able to keep you accountable and give you feedback. If you feel confident in your individual preparation, you may also choose to prepare on your own and attend a
GAMSAT practice test to assess your progress at a later stage.
GAMSAT Tuition Option 2: Purchase an MCQ Bank
Another option for preparation is to purchase an MCQ bank. Again, this method is largely self-sufficient and requires good discipline. Question banks are often more up to date than textbooks and may provide a better indication of current GAMSAT® standards.
Most MCQ banks are regularly updated and contain detailed answer explanations. Using these, you can analyse each question and develop your reasoning skills, which will ultimately improve your ability to work through difficult questions in the exam. MCQ banks can be extremely useful if you have a good knowledge base and want to work on developing problem solving and time management skills. GradReady’s
Online Essentials GAMSAT Course is a good option if you’d like to get access to their MCQ bank with 4000+ MCQs and other essential features.
However, for those who struggle with the content of the GAMSAT® and do not have much experience with the exam itself, it may be wise to opt for a more comprehensive option.
GAMSAT Tuition Option 3: Enrol in a GAMSAT Preparation Course
The next option is to enrol in a GAMSAT® preparation course. Packages will differ depending on the company you choose to go with, so it is important to research the options available before committing to a course. Each course will have a different focus and be targeted at different students so consider your position carefully when deciding on the best course for you.
GradReady’s
GAMSAT preparation courses offer online and in-person options, with the attendance packages providing a more comprehensive cover of the GAMSAT® exam. The attendance courses include small-group classes spread over 3 weekends, mock exams, essay marking, personalised feedback and one-on-one support throughout the process. There are also options to add-on private tutoring sessions if you require additional tuition.
Courses also present a unique opportunity for you to meet others who are preparing for the GAMSAT® and may provide you with a study group that you can work with in the lead up to the exam. Interacting and discussing topics with others can be extremely beneficial and provide a new perspective that will improve your exam performance. The tutors and facilitators of the course are often medical students with lots of knowledge about the GAMSAT® exam and they are likely to pass on useful tips and tricks that could benefit your performance. Finally, enrolling in a GAMSAT tuition will provide accountability and will ensure that you receive dedicated preparation for the exam, even if you are busy with other commitments during the week.
GAMSAT Tuition Option 4: Hire a Private Tutor
Private GAMSAT® tutors are the most personalised form of tuition you can receive for the GAMSAT® exam. Beyond this, some tutors will specialise in one area of the GAMSAT®, giving you even more comprehensive one-on-one teaching. This option will incur the greatest financial cost but may also provide the best guidance for the exam. Whilst there is a risk of employing a tutor whose methodologies don’t align with your study style, you are not obligated to stay with the same tutor for the entirety of your preparation. The flexibility of this option allows you to find the tutor that is right for you and to organise as many or as little sessions as you require.
Once getting to know you and your situation, tutors can personalise the sessions to your needs. This means that all the time spent with your tutor will be dedicated to your areas of focus, making it the most productive option for GAMSAT tuition. If you only require a few sessions with your tutor, this option may end up cheaper than purchasing a course or MCQ bank! Similarly to the courses, tutors will generally have experience with the GAMSAT® exam and may pass on valuable information that you will not get from independent study materials. If you’re interested in this option, GradReady also offers
Custom GAMSAT Courses that can be set up according to your needs, and you can purchase only Private Tutoring sessions.
Which GAMSAT Tuition Option is Best for Me?
Whilst cost may be a factor in consideration of these options, dedicating some extra time and money into preparation may mean that you do not have the sit the exam again and may be saving you money in the long run. If you are looking to sit the GAMSAT® in the next few years, it may be worth considering these options early and budgeting for these resources in advance.
In conclusion, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to GAMSAT tuition. It is a personal choice that depends on each individual’s circumstances and needs. Hopefully this has helped break down the options available and has helped guide you to the right option for your current situation. Remember that this is a long game and that the GAMSAT® is only the first step in a very long and rewarding career. Take this time to cherish the knowledge that you are learning and the skills that you are developing – they will be useful to you in medical school and beyond. Good luck!
For more information about studying for the GAMSAT®, check out our
GAMSAT preparation guide next.
