What does it take to get into medicine? Grit, guidance, and a clear sense of purpose.
Attendees learned that and much more on Saturday 24 May 2025 at the Australian Islamic Medical Association Victoria chapter (AIMA VIC) Student Wing’s UCAT & GAMSAT Masterclass.
Held at The Spot in Carlton and streamed online, the full-day event brought together aspiring Muslim doctors and dentists for a crash course in exam tactics, mindset, and meaning. With expert speakers who had walked the path themselves, the day offered strategies for success and a renewed sense of purpose.
UCAT Masterclass
Led by Rayyan Muneer, Farhan Uddin, and Yaseer Syed, the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) session covered essential strategies for all five subtests.
Rayyan focused on time management and Verbal Reasoning, advocating for a “multiple rounds” approach—prioritising easier questions first and skipping strategically. His triage model, inspired by emergency medicine, encouraged students to maintain momentum by focusing on questions that matter most.
Farhan’s Decision Making session highlighted logic-based techniques and visual tools like Venn diagrams and syllogisms. He emphasised how mindset and section transitions can impact performance, urging students to stay composed and tactical.
Yaseer wrapped up with Quantitative Reasoning, stressing the importance of planning before calculating and reviewing mock exams with intention. Practical advice included using number pads efficiently, simulating test-day conditions, and reviewing solutions—even for correct answers—to refine speed and accuracy.
Beyond subtest techniques, all three speakers shared broader preparation tips, including stress management strategies, mock exam scheduling, rest day planning, and the value of self-reflection and dua in staying mentally and spiritually grounded. A flowchart specific to Quantitative Reasoning was also shared during the session.
GAMSAT Masterclass
The Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) segment featured Rahman Abdul, Jareer Shikrani, and Micahel Sunderland—three high scorers and experienced tutors from Notre Dame and the University of Melbourne.
Jareer took the reins for Section 1, breaking down the eight text types and encouraging active reading, empathy, and conceptual mapping. He challenged myths about speed reading and highlighted the importance of vocabulary development and visualising content.
Micahel, founder of 90 Plus GAMSAT, explored the philosophy behind Section 2 writing. Drawing on his own experience scoring 91, he dissected what GAMSAT truly assesses—clear thinking and structured reasoning. His approach prioritised building arguments, interpreting prompts strategically, and expressing complex ideas with simplicity and precision.
Rahman, who scored 97 in Section 3, led a deep dive into the reasoning-heavy science component. He reframed Section 3 as a test of logical thinking rather than rote knowledge, guiding students on how to approach unfamiliar content with confidence and clarity. His emphasis on balancing time, energy, and stress management provided a structured approach to exam preparation.
Beyond tips and techniques, both masterclass’s echoed a deeper message: medicine is a path of service, and preparation for it should reflect discipline, sincerity and reliance on Allah.
With more events in the pipeline, AIMA VIC Student Wing continues its mission to support the next generation of Muslim healthcare professionals equipped, empowered and guided by faith.
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