What exactly is the UKCAT test?

Question

I know that it is to be taken by students who want to study dentistry or medicine in university, but im not sure what the test is about and if studying for it is required- so would 'special' classes be needed????? Also would it have to be taken in the 1st or 2nd year of college? Thank you.

Answer 1

The UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) is a test that is beginning to be used in the selection process by a consortium of UK university Medical and Dental Schools. It is run by the UKCAT Consortium in partnership with Pearson VUE. It was first introduced in 2006, and will remain in test mode for some years beyond this date.

The test is designed to give information on the candidates' mental abilities, as well as attitudes and possible professional behaviour. The test is expected to start helping universities make more informed choices between medical and dental applicants in the years to come, once the test has been fully validated.

Answer 2

Its a clinical aptitude test.

You can't study for it, from what I understand, it's a bit like an IQ test.

I don't know if there are classes, but I do know it's a timed multiple choice test, so I'll bet there are books on it.

By the way, not all universities require you to take it, so check before you book it, as you have to pay for it. Also, some of the universities, especially around London, require a BMAT test (I think that's what it's called) instead.

There is no pass or fail mark. Its either very important, or just a tie-breaker, depending on which uni you apply to.