Navigating the PREview Exam: A Vital Step in Your Medical School Journey

As applicants prepare for the rigorous medical school application process, the recent addition of the PREview professional readiness exam has become a crucial element in this process, allowing applicants to demonstrate competencies that go beyond academic knowledge. In this blog post, I will explore the significance of the PREview exam, how to decide whether to take it, and identify resources to help you prepare.

Demonstrating Readiness through Competencies: The PREview exam measures nine of the 17 premed professional competencies identified by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) for medical schools to prioritize when evaluating applications. The PREview exam provides an opportunity for aspiring physicians to showcase their proficiency in these competencies which include empathy & compassion, teamwork & collaboration, resilience, and reliability.

Complementing the PREview: While the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam evaluates basic knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social sciences, the PREview exam delves deeper into more of the "soft skills" like cultural humility, ethical responsibility to self and others, and commitment to growth and learning. Together, the MCAT and PREview scores, along with many other application components, offer a comprehensive view of an applicant's potential to further develop their competencies throughout medical school.

Choosing to Take the PREview Exam: Currently, not all medical schools require the PREview exam, but several recommend it, and a few require it as a necessary part of their admissions process. Those that require the PREview exam will likely increase over time. Prospective applicants should carefully research the requirements of the schools they plan to apply to and consult with their advisor to make an informed decision about taking this exam. If a school requires it, it is considered an essential component of the application and your application may not be considered complete and ready for review until you submit your score.

Understanding the Value: For schools recommending the PREview exam, taking it becomes an opportunity for applicants to align themselves with the institution's values. The exam provides insights into effective and ineffective professional behavior, helping medical schools assess an applicant's potential to become a compassionate and empathetic physician.

Navigating the Process: To find out if a medical school requires or recommends the PREview exam, applicants should visit the school's website, the Medical School Admissions Requirements (MSAR), or check the AAMC webpage on participating medical schools. The PREview testing calendar, registration details, and other essential information can be found there.

Timing: Test dates are available from March to September each year, with registration opening in January. I would suggest taking this exam, if it is required for the schools to which you are applying, in May or June of your application year.

Resources to Utilize: The AAMC has provided many resources to help you be prepared to take the exam, including a full-length practice exam and a preparation guide, a video, and a podcast to help applicants prepare effectively. It is imperative that you utilize these resources prior to taking your exam. You will not be allowed to take the exam again during that particular admissions cycle.

Conclusion: The PREview exam has emerged as a valuable tool for medical school admissions, allowing applicants to communicate their readiness in a holistic manner. Aspiring physicians should carefully assess the requirements of the schools they are applying to, seek guidance from advisors, and make an informed decision about taking the PREview exam. Ultimately, this additional step in the application process contributes to shaping compassionate and competent future healthcare professionals.