The characteristic of medical school entrance exams in major developed countries is that it is difficult to pass simply with high grades alone. In most countries, academic records and college entrance exam scores are comprehensively evaluated, and in addition, various factors such as document screening, interviews, and aptitude tests are often reflected.
Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada comprehensively evaluate applicants' diverse experiences and capabilities through an admissions committee system. Applicants' academic performance as well as personality and potential are evaluated through self-introductions, letters of recommendation, etc., and in the case of medical schools, passion and aptitude for the medical field are evaluated more in-depth.
In the case of Germany, a certain percentage of medical school admissions quota is selected based on Abitur scores (combined scores from academic records and college entrance exams), but for the remaining quota, various selection factors are used autonomously by the university. Applicants' medical knowledge and personality are evaluated through aptitude tests, interviews, and volunteer activities. In particular, in order to solve the problem of medical manpower shortage in rural areas, some states operate a system that allows admission to hospitals conditional on working in rural areas.
In France, applicants can apply to medical school if they score above a certain level on the Baccalaureate exam, but if there are many applicants, selection is made through a lottery. Admission to medical school is relatively easy, but promotion is difficult due to the high dropout rate.
In the case of Sweden, 1/3 of medical school students are selected based on academic records, 1/3 based on college entrance exam scores, and the remaining 1/3 are selected through document screening, interviews, and aptitude tests. In Denmark, applicants are often selected based on calibrated academic records, but some admissions utilize a variety of screening factors, similar to Sweden.
In the Netherlands, it is common for popular departments to select students based on academic performance, and in the case of medical schools, some students are selected through a lottery to take social equity into account.
In conclusion, medical school entrance exams in developed countries comprehensively evaluate not only grades but also various factors to determine suitability for the profession of a doctor and potential to contribute to society. It is important not only to simply aim for high grades, but also to appeal to your own strengths through passion for the medical field, spirit of service, and diverse experiences.
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