Medical Entrance Exams After 12th: Eligibility & Deadlines

Studying in the medical field is a dream for many students, and pursuing it internationally paves the way for multiple opportunities. However, to gain admission to a prestigious medical institution abroad requires passing the entrance exam for medical students after 12. In this article, we will understand some of the prominent medical entrance exams after 12th students can consider embarking on their medical career journey.

List of Medical Entrance Exams After 12th 

Medical entrance exams are paramount for getting into an international medical school. These exams primarily have multiple-choice questions, test reading comprehension, and basic science knowledge to determine your expertise in the field. Here is a list of top medical entrance exams and their necessary details.

NEET

NEET stands for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test. It is a highly competitive examination to secure admission to prestigious medical and dental colleges across India and abroad. NEET is conducted annually and serves as a gateway for undergraduate medical programs. With approximately 20 lakh test-takers yearly, NEET is considered the prominent medical entrance exam for undergraduate admissions.

NEET Medical Entrance Exams After 12th Registration Process

To appear for the NEET medical entrance exams after 12th, 2024, candidates must go through a registration process.

1. Visit the official website of NEET (https://www.nta.ac.in/).
2. Click on the registration link and provide the required personal details, such as name, contact information, and date of birth.
3. Fill in the academic details, including the qualifying examination, board, and passing year.
4. Choose the preferred examination center from the available options.
5. Upload the scanned copies of the necessary documents, such as photographs and signatures as per the specified format.
6. Pay the registration fee through the provided payment gateway.
7. Review the details filled in the application form and make any necessary corrections.
8. Submit the application form and take a printout for future reference.

Important Dates for NEET 2024

While the official dates for NEET 2024 are yet to be announced, it generally takes place after completing the class 12 board exams. The National Testing Agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, will release a detailed schedule for the NEET entrance exam for medical students after 12. Candidates must stay updated to ensure all important deadlines are met.

Essential Documents Required for NEET Entrance Test for Medical Students After 12th

The following documents are required during the registration process and on the examination day. 

1. The NEET admit card is a mandatory document that candidates must carry to the examination center. It proves their registration and provides important details such as the examination center, date, and time.
2. Candidates should carry a valid Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport to establish their identity.
3. Recent passport-sized photographs are required for the application form and attendance sheet.
4. Candidates belonging to reserved categories must carry the relevant category certificate issued by the competent authority.
5. Individuals with disabilities (PwD) should carry a disability certificate issued by the appropriate medical authority.

Eligibility Criteria for NEET Medical Entrance Examination After 12th

Candidates must fulfill these eligibility criteria to be eligible for the NEET medical entrance examination after 12th.

1. Indian Nationals, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Foreign Nationals are eligible to take the exam.
2. The minimum age for appearing in NEET is 17 years.
3. Candidates must have passed the 12th grade or equivalent examination with compulsory subjects in physics, chemistry, biology/biotechnology, and English.
4. General category candidates must have a minimum aggregate score of 50% in physics, chemistry, and biology/biotechnology (40% for reserved categories and 45% for PwD).
5. There is no cap on the number of attempts for NEET, allowing candidates to improve their scores with each attempt.

Recommended Articles on NEET:

NEET Preparation & Strategies

NEET Study Material 2024

MCAT 

The MCAT exam has been a part of the medical school admissions process for over 90 years. It is a standardized, multiple-choice, computer-based test designed to assess the skills and knowledge necessary for success in medical school and the field of medicine. The exam is divided into four sections:

1. Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
2. Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
3. Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
4. Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills

Each section evaluates different aspects of an examinee's aptitude, covering topics such as biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology. The MCAT exam is administered multiple times yearly at various test sites in the United States, Canada, and select locations worldwide.

MCAT Entrance Exam Registration Process

To register for the MCAT exam for medical students after 12 grade, you need to follow the given registration process:

1. Start by creating an account on the AAMC website. This account will serve as your hub for all MCAT-related activities.
2. Research the available testing dates and locations to find the most suitable option for you. Consider factors such as your preparedness, availability, and any other commitments you may have.
3. Fill out the registration form with accurate personal information, including your name, contact details, and academic background.
4. Indicate the medical schools where you intend to send your MCAT scores. You can choose up to 20 medical schools during the registration process.
5. The registration fee for the MCAT exam is subject to change, so check the AAMC website for the latest fee structure. Ensure you pay within the specified timeframe to secure your test date.
6. Once your registration is complete and the payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with important details about your test date, location, and instructions for test day.

Important Dates for MCAT Exam

1. The AAMC announces specific dates when registration for each test cycle opens. Make sure to mark these dates on your calendar to secure your preferred test date.
2. The MCAT exam is offered multiple times throughout the year, typically from late January to September. 
3. Score release dates: After taking the exam, you will eagerly await your scores. The AAMC releases the scores approximately 30-35 days after the exam date. Check the AAMC website for the exact score release dates for your test cycle.

Essential Documents Required for MCAT Entrance Test for Medical Students After 12th

Before appearing for the MCAT exam, it is essential to have all the necessary documents in place. Here is a checklist of all the documents you need for the MCAT entrance exam:

1. Carry a government-issued photo identification document, such as a passport or driver's license, to verify your identity on test day. It is important to note that the first and last names on your ID must accurately match the name and name order in your MCAT registration.
2. Print a copy of your registration confirmation email or have it readily accessible on your electronic devices.

Eligibility Criteria for MCAT Medical Entrance Examinations

You are eligible to take the MCAT entrance test for medical students after 12th if you are planning to apply to a medical course/institution, which includes:

• D.O.-granting programs
• M.D.-granting programs
• Veterinary medicine (D.V.M)
• Pediatric (D.P.M)
• Any other health-related program that accepts MCAT exam results to satisfy a test score admissions requirement.

Other requirements include agreeing to a statement verifying your intention to apply to a health professions school.

International students currently in, or hold a degree from, an MBBS degree program or equivalent can register for the exam without special permission.

IMAT

The International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT) is a standardized exam used as part of the selection process for Medicine and Surgery, as well as Dentistry and Dental Prosthodontics programs in Italian universities. It is the only official exam you need to pass to study medicine in English in Italy. The IMAT exam assesses your critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge aptitude. It consists of multiple-choice questions covering various subjects, including biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logical reasoning.

IMAT Exam Registration Process

Here are the steps for the registration process for the IMAT entrance test for medical students after 12th:

1. Non-EU students must complete the pre-enrollment process, which involves obtaining a document called Dichiarazione di Valore, or DoV (Declaration of Value). This document confirms the compatibility of your graduation diploma for studying medicine in Italy.
2. To initiate the pre-enrollment process, you need to contact your nearest Italian consulate or embassy. They will give the necessary paperwork and instructions for obtaining the DoV.
3. As part of the pre-enrollment process, download and fill out Form A. This form is present on the consulate's website or obtained directly from them.
4. The consulate will inform you about the specific documents you need to submit for the pre-enrollment process. These documents include your academic transcripts, diplomas, and translations of these documents into Italian.
5. Once you have prepared the required documents, submit them to the consulate along with Form A. The consulate will review your documents and issue the DoV if everything is in order.
6. After completing the pre-enrollment process, you can proceed to the online enrollment for the IMAT exam. The enrollment period for IMAT 2023 is expected to open in July 2023. To enroll, visit the website www.universitaly.it and follow the given instructions. 

Important Dates for IMAT 2023

To ensure a smooth application process, it is crucial to know the important dates for IMAT competitive exams for medical students after 12th. The exact dates for IMAT 2023 are yet to be announced. Here are estimated timelines based on previous years:

• April - June 2023: Pre-enrollment period for non-EU students.
• July 2023: Online enrollment for IMAT opens on www.universitaly.it.
• September 2023: IMAT exam date (exact date to be confirmed).
• Late September 2023: Preliminary IMAT results are published.
• October 2023: Official IMAT score and ranking are published.
• Late October 2023: Classes for medical programs in Italy typically start.

Essential Documents Required for IMAT Exam

You must have certain essential documents to ensure a smooth enrollment process for the IMAT exam. Here is a list of documents you may need:

• You must have a valid passport or identification card. This document will serve as proof of your identity and nationality.
• Must have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. This document demonstrates that you have successfully completed your secondary education. 
• As the IMAT exam is in English, you must provide a language proficiency certificate to demonstrate your English language skills. The most commonly accepted certificates are the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). 
• Once you have registered for the IMAT exam, you will receive a confirmation email or document. This registration confirmation is proof that you have successfully registered for the exam and are eligible to participate.
• Proof of payment for the IMAT exam. 

Other requirements:

• Candidates Photograph 
• Copy of Passport

 Eligibility Criteria for the IMAT Medical Entrance Exams After 12th

To be eligible for the exam, you must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Have completed the necessary prerequisite subjects, including biology, chemistry, and either mathematics or physics.
• Be proficient in the English language, as the exam is conducted in English.

Please note each university may have additional requirements, so it's crucial to check the specific admission guidelines for the university you're interested in.

BMAT

The BMAT is an aptitude test developed by Cambridge Assessment for Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, and Dentistry. It assesses the skills and knowledge necessary for success in these fields. The test consists of three sections: Thinking Skills, Scientific Knowledge and Applications, and a Writing Task. BMAT scores are converted into a 9-point scale, with average candidates scoring around 5.0 and the best candidates scoring 6.0 or higher. The results of the Writing Task are given separate scores for quality of content and written English.

BMAT Medical Entrance Exams Registration Process

To appear for the BMAT exams after the 12th, 2024, candidates must go through a registration process.

1.Find a Test Centre

•  The first step in registering for the BMAT is to find a test center. Begin by reaching out to the Exams Officer at your school or college to determine if they are registered to administer the BMAT. 
• 2.Register for the Test

To officially register for the BMAT, contact your Exams Officer and provide them with the following details:

• Personal information, including your full name and date of birth.
• UCAS number (only applicable for those applying to the UK universities).
• The names of the courses or universities you are applying to (only applicable for those applying to the UK universities).
• Medical evidence, if you require modified question papers or any Access Arrangements, such as extra time.

It is essential to note the deadline to apply for modified papers is 15th September 2023, and the deadline for all other Access Arrangements is 29th September 2023.

3.Obtain your Candidate Entry Number

Once you have successfully registered for the BMAT, obtain your candidate entry number from your Exams Officer. This unique number starting with a "B" followed by five digits is proof of your registration for the test.

4.Prepare for the BMAT

Connect with your test center to obtain comprehensive details about the test, including the specific location, timings, and more about the test day. To aid in your preparation, the official BMAT website offers a wealth of free resources. Visit the BMAT preparation page to access practice questions, past papers, and other valuable materials to enhance your performance.

Important Dates for BMAT 2024

It is essential to stay updated with the important dates related to the BMAT to ensure a smooth application process. There are several test sessions for the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT). Different universities accept different test sessions; therefore, you must ensure you take the right one. The following are the important dates for the October BMAT Test Session 2024:

• Registration opens: 1 September 2023
• Deadline to apply for modified papers (e.g., enlarged print): 15 September 2023
• Deadline for test centers to register candidates: 29 September 2023 at 18.00 (BST)
• Test date: 18 October 2023

Essential Documents Required for BMAT Entrance Test for Medical Students After 12th

To appear for the BMAT entrance test, medical students must submit certain essential documents to complete the registration process. The following documents are required:

1. A valid government-issued identification document, such as a passport or national identity card.
2. Copies of your high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
3. Recent passport-sized photographs as per the specified guidelines. Check the official website for the required dimensions and format.
4. Print and carry the admit card downloaded after a successful registration. 

Eligibility Criteria for BMAT Medical Entrance Examination

To be eligible to appear for the BMAT medical entrance examination, candidates must fulfill certain criteria set by the respective institutions. 

1. Candidates must have completed their 12th grade or equivalent qualification from a recognized educational board.
2. Candidates must have studied relevant subjects, such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics, at the high school level.
3. International candidates are required to fulfill additional requirements, such as English language proficiency.

UCAT - University Clinical Aptitude Test 

The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) is a crucial step for aspiring medical and dental students in gaining admission to prestigious universities in the UK and internationally. This computer-based test, administered by Pearson VUE, assesses candidates' aptitude and suitability for their medical and dental degree programs.

UCAT Medical Entrance Exams Registration Process

To take the UCAT exam, you must first complete the registration process:

Step 1 - Create a UCAT Account

The first step is to create a UCAT Account. New candidates must complete this step before proceeding with the test booking. During the registration process, ensure that you provide your legal name exactly as it appears on the photo ID you intend to present on the test day. 

After creating your UCAT Account, you will receive an email from Pearson VUE containing your username. You can log in to your account using the provided username and the password you set up during registration. Additionally, you will be assigned a UCAT candidate ID with Pearson VUE and the UCAT Office. 

Before proceeding with the test booking, there are certain considerations and steps you need to address:

• Apply for Bursary (if applicable)

If you are a UK candidate facing financial need, you can apply for a UCAT Bursary. This bursary scheme covers the full test fee. Once your Bursary Application is approved, you will get a voucher code used during the test booking process.

• Apply for Access Arrangements (if applicable)

Candidates who require additional test time, rest breaks, or special accommodations must have their Access Arrangements application approved by the UCAT Office before proceeding with their test booking. Reviewing the specific guidelines and submitting the documentation within the designated deadline is essential.

• Read the Fitness to Test Policy (all candidates)

The UCAT has implemented a Fitness to Test Policy, which states candidates declare themselves fit to take the examination. It is crucial to review this policy to ensure a proper understanding of the expectations and guidelines.

Step 2 - Book a Test

Once you have created your UCAT account and completed the necessary preparations, you can book your UCAT test. This step should be done through your UCAT account using the official Pearson VUE registration system. It is recommended to book your test date early in the testing window to secure a preferred slot.

Private Access Codes (PAC) are issued only to candidates approved for an extended test or the online proctored UCAT. For the standard UCAT, PAC is not required. After successfully booking your test, you will receive a confirmation email with essential details about your test appointment.

Important Dates for UCAT 2024 

The UCAT 2024 test cycle encompasses several key dates you must know. It is your responsibility to register for the appropriate version of the UCAT and meet all relevant deadlines. Here are the important dates for the UCAT 2024 test cycle:

• 16th May (09:30 BST): UCAT Account creation opens
• 20th June (06:00 BST): Booking opens
• 10th July: Testing starts
• 19th September: Access Arrangement application deadline
• 21st September: Booking deadline
• 28th September: Last test day
• 29th September: Bursary Scheme application deadline
• 16th October: UCAS deadline
• Early November: Results delivered to universities

Eligibility Criteria for UCAT Exam

1. Provide a valid identification document such as a passport, national ID card, or driver's license. 
2. Once you register for the UCAT, you will receive an admission ticket. This document contains your personal details, test date, test center, and important instructions. It is essential to bring this admission ticket with you on the test day.
3. Upload a recent passport-sized photograph during the UCAT registration process.
4. If you have a disability or any other circumstances that may affect your performance during the UCAT, you are eligible for special consideration. In such cases, you have to provide supporting documents, such as medical reports or educational psychologist assessments, to request accommodations. 

UCAT Exam Eligibility Criteria

UCAT eligibility for Indian students is simple, and you must comply with the following conditions to take the exam:

• To take the test, you must have completed or be in the final year of your higher secondary education or above, i.e., 10+2 years of school education or an undergraduate degree.
• To be eligible for the UCAT, you must be qualified to apply for medical programs in the UK universities.

Conclusion

Preparing for international medical entrance examinations after completing the 12th grade can be a tough yet rewarding journey. By understanding the eligibility criteria, registration process, and preparation strategies for medical entrance exams after 12th, aspiring medical professionals can take substantial steps toward fulfilling their dreams of studying medicine abroad. With dedication, hard work, and perseverance, success in these exams can pave the way for a bright and fulfilling career in the medical field.

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