Careers in healthcare are incredibly fulfilling and offer lots of exciting opportunities. But, if you’re dreaming of studying to become a doctor, there are some important things to know before you start.
To help you out, we’ve gathered this list of everything you need to know about studying medicine in Australia.
Academic prerequisites
Every course and university have different academic requirements, so it’s vital to research your program before you apply to ensure you meet the criteria.
To enrol in a bachelor’s medical degree, you must receive good grades in high school or equivalent. You may even need to have taken specific prerequisite subjects, such as mathematics or science.
After you’ve finished your undergraduate degree, you’ll have to enrol in a postgraduate program. To do this, you must maintain a high grade point average (GPA) throughout your bachelor’s. Additionally, your postgraduate program may require you to have completed a particular undergraduate program or certain subjects, like anatomy or physiology.
Some universities offer special academic pathways into their medical programs. The University of Notre Dame Australia, for example, offers two unique pathways for high-achieving students.
The assured pathway is available to school leavers who gain entry into a Bachelor of Biomedical Science or the Bachelor of Advanced Biomedical Science (Honours). If you study through an assured pathway and maintain the necessary GPA, you’re guaranteed a place in the Doctor of Medicine!
They also offer a priority pathway, which provides entry to the Doctor of Medicine for graduates who achieve top results in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science.
Language requirements
To study medicine in Australia, it is important that you have strong language skills. Depending on your country of origin, you may be required to sit an English language test to apply for your student visa or to enrol in your chosen degree.
Aptitude test
Before you can enrol in a medical degree, you’ll need to take the relevant aptitude test. For undergraduate courses, you’ll have to pass either the International Student Admissions Test (ISAT) or the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT ANZ).
To apply for postgraduate study, you must sit the Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) or the ISAT if you have completed your bachelor’s overseas.
Interview process
Some medical programs in Australia will ask you to sit for an interview as part of the application process to gather information about your background, goals and aspirations. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate your language and interpersonal skills.
Get involved
Engaging with your local community is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to becoming a doctor and can even give you an edge when it comes to finding a job!
Consider pursuing a leadership role at your school or local club or volunteering at a hospital or medical clinic. Not only will this help you build your skills, but it’s a handy way to learn more about the medical profession.
Do your research
There’s more to studying medicine and being a good doctor than reading textbooks and passing exams.
Staying up to date with key developments in the field is essential to succeed in medicine. You can keep up with news by reading blogs, case reports and journal articles, and even by watching documentaries.
Keep an open mind
Having an open mind means being willing to consider new ideas and perspectives, and it’s one of the most valuable tools a doctor can have!
There are lots of different ideas about medicine, healthcare and practice, so keeping an open mind will help you become the best doctor you can be!
Have your own general practitioner (GP)
If you want to succeed as a doctor, it’s critical to take your own health seriously. Regular checkups with a GP will help you look after your health and wellbeing effectively. This will also help you understand what doctors can do for people in the real world outside of your studies.
Enjoy yourself!
Studying medicine requires diligence and dedication, but it’s critical to enjoy the journey, too.
Take time to do the things you enjoy, hang out with friends, and make space in your schedule for rest and relaxation.
If you’re ready to start your exciting career in medicine, explore courses at The University of Notre Dame Australia and apply today.
