The coronavirus situation is unprecedented, and as we discovered in March early this year, the GAMSAT Exam has been changed into an Online GAMSAT Exam Format.
It’s pivotal that you keep yourself up to date with newest information from ACER, GEMSAS, and the universities in this situation. However, we understand that it’s easier said than done. To that extent, we have compiled for you all of the updates on the GAMSAT Exam so far in this article.
Take note that this article is in no way meant to substitute for the GEMSAS and ACER information, but acts as a summary to give you the general idea of what has changed and what has stayed the same.
AM I ELIGIBLE?
You are eligible if you were registered and eligible to sit the exam (from March 6th). You are also eligible if you refunded or deferred the exam after March 6th but now would be inclined to take the exam in May. You are also eligible if you have an online ACER GAMSAT account.
WHAT CHOICES DO I HAVE WITH REGARDS TO THE EXAM?
You should to log into your online account and pick one of these three options before April 9th.
The first option is to take the exam by remote proctoring (online).
The second option is to change your registration to the September 2020 or March 2021 exam.
The third option is to get refunded and choose not to take the exam at this time.
WHEN IS THE NEW GAMSAT AND HOW DO I REGISTER?
Expect to get an email from the proctoring software company. After that, go online to book your exam between April 27th and May 24th. You will be required to register an account with the proctoring software.
The exam will be held over: 28 May – 2 June 2020
CAN I TAKE THE EXAM AT HOME?
Yes. As long as you have a suitable internet connection and computer at home, you will be able to sit the exam at home.
ANY EXTRA COSTS?
You won’t have to pay any extra to take the May Online GAMSAT.
WHAT ABOUT THE STRUCTURE OF THE ONLINE GAMSAT?
It’s important to take note of the fact that the timing and structure of the exam is different from the usual GAMSAT now.
Section 1 - 40 questions (used to be 75) & 60 minutes long (used to be 110 minutes)
Section 2 - 2 questions & 65 minutes long
Section 3 - 60 questions (used to be 110) & 120 minutes long (used to be 180 minutes)
Reading time is counted into writing time, as is the case usually. But it is now recommended that you spend no more than five mins for Section 1 and six mins for Section 2.
You will still need to spend a full day on the exam, generally speaking.
CAN YOU LEAVE THE COMPUTER DURING THE TEST?
No you can’t. You have to stay at your computer barring any major technical difficulties or illnesses. You can leave during the 1 hour break between Sections 2 and 3, however.
ABOUT REASONABLE ADJUSTMENTS
ACER announced that they are not accepting new submissions for reasonable adjustments anymore. For those who have already had their reasonable adjustments approved, ACER will try to provide this as much as they can.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW?
It is still required that you show photo ID on exam day. You will also need to access ACER’s website to receive your Admission Ticket.
CAN I USE THE RESULT TO APPLY FOR MEDICINE COMMENCING 2021?
Yes. You will still need to finish your GEMSAS Application before June 5th. But since the GAMSAT results probably won’t be out yet by then, GEMSAS will permit students to change application or request a full refund.
For more information about the Online GAMSAT Exam Format, check out our full article here: https://gradready.com.au/posts/gamsat-preparation-courses/online-gamsat-exam-format
