Everything You Need to Know About the AAMC PREview Exam
As you prepare for medical school, you’ll encounter many factors to think about. From finding nearby medical schools to considering international pre-med opportunities like shadowing or internships, it can be overwhelming. In the midst of all this, the AAMC PREview Exam is a crucial part of your medical school application.
What is the AAMC PREview Exam?
The AAMC PREview Exam, also recognized as the AAMC Situational Judgement Test (AAMC SJT), constitutes a meticulously crafted assessment intended to gauge the pre-professional competencies that medical institutions deem integral for triumph. The significance of the AAMC SJT has grown substantially, with numerous medical schools now mandating or recommending it alongside the MCAT and Casper examinations for admissions consideration.
An Insight into the AAMC PREview Exam’s Structure
Comprising a tapestry of scenarios, the AAMC PREview exam scrutinizes your comprehension and application of fundamental attributes within the medical profession.
Grasping the Scenarios
Within the assessment, hypothetical scenarios are presented, reflecting situations you might encounter as a medical scholar or healthcare practitioner. It is noteworthy that the AAMC SJT doesn’t necessitate specialized medical or scientific expertise. Instead, it probes your judgment and grasp of professional demeanor and ethics, showcasing the pivotal role of non-academic qualities in shaping prospective medical students.
Exploring Response Categories
Each scenario prompts you to assess suitable responses, subsequently evaluating the efficacy of various potential actions. These question categories are meticulously tailored to assess distinct proficiencies encompassing teamwork, communication, empathy, and ethical acumen.
Navigating the Timeframe
An inherent feature of the AAMC PREview exam is its timed nature. Both individual section durations and the overall examination time are meticulously controlled. Thus, aspiring candidates are urged to devise adept time-management strategies to optimize their performance during the assessment.
| Activity | Time Given |
| Check-In | 5-15 minutes |
| Examine Agreement and Exam Instructions | 5 minutes |
| Exam Time | 75 minutes |
| Void Question and School Selection | 5-10 minutes |
| Total Exam Time | 75 minutes |
| Total Session Time | 90-105 minutes |
How Does the AAMC PREview Exam Scoring Work?
The AAMC PREview exam is a standardized evaluation designed to gauge your grasp of essential pre-professional conduct across eight fundamental competencies relevant for medical school entry. The scoring system of the exam operates on a scale ranging from 1 to 9, where 1 represents the lowest score and 9 signifies the highest attainable score.
The process of scoring for the AAMC PREview Exam revolves around assessing your responses to the presented scenarios, evaluating their appropriateness in accordance with a predefined scoring rubric. This scoring rubric is meticulously developed by a panel of esteemed medical educators, who possess expertise spanning the entire spectrum of the eight core competencies.
Within this scoring, there exist four distinct rating scale points:
Very Ineffective: This rating designates responses that prove counterproductive to the situation, potentially exacerbating the issue or leading to further complications. Such responses could arise from a significant lack of understanding or a disregard for the competencies under examination.
Ineffective: Responses categorized as ineffective fall short of adequately addressing the scenario. While they might not necessarily worsen the situation, they also fail to contribute constructively to a solution. Such responses may reflect a subpar grasp of the competencies or an inadequate application thereof.
Effective: Responses that fall under this category adeptly address the situation, showcasing a clear understanding and proficient application of the competencies. Although these responses contribute positively to resolving the scenario, they might not necessarily represent the most optimal approach.
Very Effective: The ‘very effective’ rating is reserved for responses that not only address the situation with competence but do so in an optimal manner. These responses exhibit a profound understanding and skillful utilization of the competencies, embodying the epitome of a superior approach to the given scenario.
It is imperative to acknowledge that this scoring system does not encompass a hierarchy of answers, where one response is deemed the ‘best’ while another is considered the ‘worst’. Rather, the aim is to assess the efficacy with which each response addresses the situation, grounded in the context of the competencies being evaluated.
Key Points to Know About AAMC PREview Exam Scoring
The scoring process for the AAMC PREview exam is a bit complex, but it looks at a few important things to determine your score. In addition to the rating points, they consider:
- How much of the important topics you cover in your response.
- How well you understand these topics and show it in your answer.
- How clear and organized your answer is.
- How effective your answer is in solving the situation.
This method ensures that the AAMC PREview exam fairly measures how well you understand good professional behavior. Knowing how the scoring works can help you do better.
If you want to get a high score, here’s a good strategy: Practice with sample tests, understand what makes a strong answer, and learn how the important topics work. When you can quickly spot the main issues, the people involved, and the best actions to take, you’ll be ready to do well on the exam.
| Window | Test Dates | Registration Opens | Registration Closes | Scores Released |
| 1 | March 16 & 17 | Closed | Closed | April 18 |
| 2 | May 10 & 11 | Closed | Closed | June 13 |
| 3 | June 14 & 15 | Closed | Closed | July 18 |
| 4 | July 12 & 13 | Closed | Closed | August 15 |
| 5 | August 16 & 17 | Closed | August 2 | September 19 |
| 6 | September 13 & 14 | Open | August 30 | October 17 |
| 7 | October 11 & 12 | Open | September 27 | November 9 |
Preparing for the AAMC PREview Exam
Getting ready for the AAMC PREview Exam requires a slightly different approach than regular studying. Here are some useful tips to help you prepare:
- Learn about the Core Competencies: These are the skills and qualities the exam focuses on. Knowing them can give you a better idea of what the questions are asking.
- Understand the Exam Setup: The more you know about how the exam is structured and the time limits, the more prepared you’ll be on exam day.
- Think About Your Own Experiences: Your personal experiences can be really helpful while preparing for the PREview exam. Think about times when you’ve shown or seen the core competencies in action.
- Practice with Sample Scenarios: The AAMC provides sample scenarios on their website. These can give you a good idea of the situations you’ll face in the test. Use them to practice and understand the test better.
At Jack Westin, our commitment is to support you throughout your medical school journey. Through our medical school admissions consulting, we offer personalized assistance to help you navigate the AAMC PREview exam and all facets of the admissions process.
Whether you’re in need of guidance for the AAMC PREview, gearing up for the MCAT, or exploring special opportunities like pre-med shadowing study abroad programs or pre-med internships, we’re here to be your guiding light.
Recognizing the Significance of the AAMC PREview Exam
The AAMC PREview exam plays a pivotal role in the medical school application process, providing admissions committees with a unique lens to evaluate candidates beyond their academic achievements and extracurricular involvements. By concentrating on fundamental competencies, the AAMC PREview exam effectively measures candidates’ potential to thrive as successful medical practitioners.
It’s imperative to grasp the substantial impact of the AAMC SJT within the application journey. With numerous medical schools globally incorporating this exam into their admissions criteria, it underscores the evolving perspective of the medical community, valuing a comprehensive evaluation of applicants.
Changes in AAMC PREview Exam Reporting for 2023-2024 Cycle
Before the 2023-2024 cycle, only a few schools you applied to got your AAMC PREview scores if they asked for them. But starting from the 2023-2024 cycle, all schools you apply to through AMCAS will get your PREview scores, even if they didn’t say they wanted them.
This means the AAMC PREview exam is becoming more important for admissions. Even schools that didn’t make it a rule might use the scores to make decisions about who to admit. It’s a sign that the PREview exam is playing a bigger role in getting into medical school.
Medical Schools That Require AAMC PREview Exam
Jack Westin for AAMC PREview Exam
At Jack Westin, we’re committed to assisting you in your medical school journey. Through our MCAT prep courses and resources, we offer personalized guidance to help you excel in the AAMC PREview exam and every step of the admissions process.
Whether you’re looking for assistance with the AAMC PREview, preparing for the MCAT, or exploring unique opportunities like pre-med shadowing study abroad programs or pre-med internships in Peru, our team is here to provide you with the support and resources you need.
5 Scenario Samples for AAMC PREview Exam
Scenario 1: Teamwork in a Healthcare Setting
You are part of a medical team caring for a critically ill patient. A colleague suggests a treatment plan that you believe is risky. What would you do in this situation? Rate the effectiveness of different possible actions.
Scenario 2: Patient Confidentiality
You work as a medical assistant, and you accidentally overhear a conversation between a physician and a patient in the waiting area. The patient’s confidential information is at risk of being exposed. What steps would you take to address this situation? Rate the effectiveness of different possible actions.
Scenario 3: Communication with Patients
You’re a medical student on a rotation in a busy hospital. A patient expresses confusion about their diagnosis and treatment plan. How would you communicate with the patient to ensure they understand and feel comfortable? Rate the effectiveness of different possible actions.
Scenario 4: Ethical Dilemma
You are a healthcare professional, and you discover that a colleague has made a serious error in patient care but hasn’t reported it. What would you do in this situation? Rate the effectiveness of different possible actions.
Scenario 5: Cultural Sensitivity
As a healthcare provider, you’re caring for a patient from a cultural background different from your own. The patient requests a treatment approach that aligns with their cultural beliefs but conflicts with standard medical practice. How would you handle this situation? Rate the effectiveness of different possible actions.
These scenarios are designed to assess your judgment, ethical decision-making, and interpersonal skills, which are critical for success in the medical field.
The Key Skills Evaluated by the AAMC PREview Exam
The AAMC PREview exam looks at specific essential skills that are very important for those wanting to be doctors. Let’s take a closer look at these skills and why they matter for your medical career.
People Skills: This includes being good at working with others, being understanding, and knowing how to build good relationships. In the medical world, being able to talk and work well with your colleagues, patients, and their families is really important.
Personal Skills: These are about knowing yourself, controlling your emotions, and being able to adapt to different situations. Since the medical field can be very stressful, being able to manage your feelings and adjust to changes is crucial.
Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: This part of the exam checks how good you are at thinking critically, using numbers, and solving problems. Being able to understand complicated situations and make smart decisions is super important in medicine.
Science Skills: This is all about knowing the basic principles of science, using them in real situations, and keeping up with the latest science news. It shows how important it is to have a strong background in science for a medical career.
Utilizing AAMC Resources
The AAMC offers a wealth of resources to aid you in your exam preparation journey. Their sample scenarios and preparatory guide are valuable tools for acquainting yourself with the exam’s format and the types of questions you’ll encounter.
The Significance of the AAMC PREview Exam in Medical School Admissions
Traditionally, medical school admissions heavily weighted academic performance and MCAT scores. However, many schools now recognize the necessity for a more comprehensive approach to admissions.
The AAMC PREview exam introduces an additional dimension to the admissions process by shedding light on a candidate’s non-academic attributes. Recognizing the pivotal role of the AAMC PREview exam in medical school admissions underscores the importance of thorough preparation.
Crush the AAMC PREview Exam with Jack Westin’s MCAT Prep Services
Mastering the MCAT and the medical school admissions process can be daunting, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. We are committed to assisting you every step of the way.
Whether you require guidance on AAMC PREview exam preparation, MCAT strategies, or are interested in unique opportunities like pre-med shadowing study abroad programs or pre-med internships, our advisors are here for you.
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Don’t hesitate to get in touch and schedule a meeting with our academic advisors at Jack Westin. Begin your journey towards medical school with confidence and comprehensive support from our team!
A Look at The Exam Differences: AAMC PREview Exam vs. MCAT vs. Casper
As the AAMC PREview exam becomes more widely adopted by medical schools, it’s important to grasp how it differs from traditional exams like the MCAT and Casper. Each of these tests evaluates distinct aspects of a candidate, collectively providing a well-rounded assessment of your potential for success in medical school and the medical profession.
The MCAT is a comprehensive examination that measures your scientific knowledge and reasoning capabilities. In contrast, Casper is a situational judgment test designed to assess interpersonal and professional skills.
The AAMC PREview exam, also a situational judgment test, complements these assessments by appraising core competencies recognized as vital for success in the healthcare field.
While preparing for the MCAT typically involves a focus on retaining and applying scientific knowledge, getting ready for both the Casper and AAMC PREview exam entails reflection on personal experiences and a thorough understanding of professional ethics and conduct.
Incorporating AAMC PREview Exam Preparation into Your Medical School Admissions Strategy
For aspiring medical students, the path to medical school admission involves several facets, from academic groundwork to extracurricular engagements, and now, the AAMC PREview exam.
To begin, it’s crucial to establish a timeline for your medical school application process. This timeline should encompass significant dates for the MCAT, Casper, and the AAMC PREview exam. Having a well-defined timeline enables effective planning, ensuring you have ample time for preparation while meeting application deadlines.
Subsequently, seamlessly integrate AAMC PREview exam preparation strategies into your broader study plan. This may involve setting aside dedicated periods for introspection on personal experiences, gaining familiarity with the AAMC’s core competencies, and engaging with AAMC-provided sample scenarios.
In conclusion, the AAMC PREview exam is a pivotal component of your journey towards medical school admission. By assessing core competencies beyond academic prowess, it provides a comprehensive view of your potential as a medical professional. As this exam gains prominence among medical schools, thorough preparation becomes increasingly vital.
At Jack Westin, we understand the significance of excelling in the AAMC PREview exam, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our experienced advisors offer personalized guidance to help you prepare effectively, ensuring you are fully equipped to tackle this crucial assessment. Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a meeting with our academic advisors today. Embark on your path to medical school with the confidence and comprehensive support you deserve from Jack Westin.