Only the best : medical student selection in Australia

Selection processes for medical schools need to be unbiased, valid, and psychometrically reliable, as well as evidence-based and transparent to all stakeholders. A range of academic and non-academic criteria are used for selection, including matriculation scores, aptitude tests and interviews. Research into selection is fraught with methodological difficulties; however, it shows positive benefits for structured selection processes. Pretest coaching and “faking good” are potential limitations of current selection procedures. Developments in medical school selection include the use of personality tests, centralised selection centres and programs to increase participation by socially disadvantaged students.