The Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT) was pioneered by Cambridge, Oxford and UCL, with the first sitting of the examination taking place in Autumn 2003. It was implemented to assess the lateral thinking and communication capabilities of students applying for high demand medically related degree courses. It seems likely that as the shift of emphasis in candidate selection is extended to include a breadth of non-knowledge based skills, the number of institutions utilising tests such as BMAT will grow in the coming years.

BMAT has been introduced as one of the tools by which it is possible to measure the suitability of an individual’s potential to pursue and succeed in demanding academic disciplines such as biomedical degree courses. The test seeks to identify traits and aptitudes that reflect conceptual and problem-solving potential. Reasoning and making informed judgements based on diagrammatic and textual information forms the core of the test.

Medical and Veterinary schools will, of course, still exercise their own judgement in assessing the suitability of a candidate to practice. However, the test does form a key part of the selection procedure and poor performance will necessarily prevent progression to the much coveted interview stage.

BMAT is currently being used by the following:

• University of Cambridge Medical and Veterinary Schools
• Imperial College London
• Oxford University Medical School
• Royal Veterinary College.
• University College London

For the majority of students this will entail stepping into unknown territory as the test is more unfamiliar in terms of approach rather than the knowledge that it requires. But sometimes, knowing how to use the knowledge, and how to dissect relevant information is equally as daunting, and expert help and guidance provides the necessary structure and pointers. Therefore, it is only prudent to undertake some preparation to become conversant with the style of question, ways of approach and how to best utilise scientific knowledge in terms of problem solving activity.