Posts Tagged ‘University of Queensland Medical School’

Thursday, March 7th, 2013

Orientation in Australia: OzTREKK’s unique philosophy

In 2002, Beth, a Canadian, and Matt, an Australian, co-founded OzTREKK educational services in Canada. Beth and Matt’s unique philosophy of life is what helped them create OzTREKK.

Sydney students enjoy an OzTREKK Welcome breakfast

Incoming Canadians into the Sydney Medical School and Sydney Dental School enjoy an OzTREKK Welcome Breakfast

“In everything we do, we believe in challenging society and the status quo. We believe in thinking differently. We believe that there is no feat in being ordinary; we believe in being extraordinary. We believe in chasing and fulfilling dreams, and enriching lives with incredible experiences that will be treasured for a lifetime.

“The way we fulfill dreams and enrich lives, with incredible experiences, is by creating a process that is easy to use, streamlined and efficient, which educates, provides knowledge and intelligence, enabling informed decisions. OzTREKK prepares you for a journey that will change your life, through careful planning by an engaged and thoughtful team of extraordinary people.”

“It’s confusing and daunting trying to get into medical school, especially overseas, OzTREKK made the decision and preparation easy and actually enjoyable! …goes above and beyond, highly recommended to anyone thinking of going to Australia for their studies. If you need a reference for people who are thinking of applying through OzTREKK, but want to hear from other OzTREKKers, you can e-mail me, and I’ll contact them and let them know how good of a job you (Beth) and Matt do. Anyways, thanks again….” M Cordeau, (Lakehead University grad), University of Queensland, Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery, 2013

Both Beth and Matt have lived, worked, travelled and studied overseas, and they decided to start an organization that makes it easy for Canadians to fulfill their dreams and discover experiences that would stay with them forever.

JCU students take advantage of the OzTREKK Shuttle

OzTREKK Shuttle brings incoming Canadian James Cook University Medical School students shopping!

They both share a unique philosophy: life is a journey. And when it comes time to reflect on your life, what will your book of life look like? What will your pages be filled with? The world is such an amazing place and when you study internationally you enrich your life and experience different points of view, you gain a worldwide network of colleagues and friends, and you gain an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Together, Beth and Matt are part of a team of nine extraordinary people, who share their philosophy, and are knowledgeable, caring, helpful and compassionate. They have helped more than 1,000 Canadians successfully enroll in an Australian university, have handed out in excess of $600,000 in bursaries and scholarships, and have received countless success stories from students.

So with that vision in mind, there are three main goals OzTREKK achieves: Beth and Matt set out to establish an organization that offers a stress-free approach to study in Australia; create an organization that has all the latest information about your destination and about your varied selection of Australian universities and programs; and build an organization that cares about your well-being and has your goals at the forefront.

University of Queensland students enjoy OzTREKK Orientation

Canadian University of Queensland Medical School students enjoy OzTREKK Orientations—and the weather!

One of the three goals is to demonstrate care and responsiveness to our students, and to give back to our students as much as possible. In 2008, OzTREKK set up the OzTREKK Scholarship fund, whereby every OzTREKK student who commenced his or her program at one of OzTREKK‘s Australian university partners would receive a $500 scholarship. It is just our way to provide you with as much assistance as possible so that you can reach your goals and fulfill your dreams—and we know that every little bit helps!

In 2009, OzTREKK began the popular and extremely helpful OzTREKK Orientations, which are held in Australia at your Australian university campus prior to the commencement of your studies, and your journey.

OzTREKK also runs a very handy OzTREKK Shuttle. Need groceries? Need a cell phone? Need to look for an apartment? Need to find something? Let OzTREKK “shuttle” you around!

“…it is nice to know that us internationals have you (Beth) and Matt at our side! P.S. Please thank Matt for me with helping me locate and find my lost luggage. He went far beyond what I would have expected from a friend.” D Soutar, (Dalhousie University grad), University of Queensland, Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery, 2013

OzTREKK Scholarship: Every little bit helps

As former international students, Beth and Matt know that every little bit of funding helps when you are studying. They each paid their own way to study overseas, and had to access loans and work part time during their studies to make it happen.

New JCU dentistry students from Canada gather for OzTREKK Orientation—a great way to make new friends!

Each OzTREKK student who qualifies for an OzTREKK Scholarship will receive one $500 scholarship during the first year of study. The OzTREKK Scholarship will be paid directly toward your Australian university tuition.

Every student who applies (and accepts) via OzTREKK and commences his/her studies at an OzTREKK Australian university will receive a $500 scholarship from OzTREKK.

OzTREKK Orientations: Meet fellow students

What are the OzTREKK Orientations, you may ask? Well, the Orientations are in place to make sure that you are well prepared, organized and ready to tackle your studies and get the most of your time in Australia and overseas.

Basic, right? Well, picture yourself arriving in a new country. You have just flown for 24 hours. You are jet-lagged. You are in an unfamiliar place, and you don’t know anyone! You become lonely and homesick. You check Facebook and see that all your friends back home are having a great time and you miss them and your family.

You would be amazed at how many students arrive in Australia, move in to their accommodations, and rarely leave their rooms. Why? They don’t know anyone—they don’t have anyone to spend time with.

“The way we fulfill dreams and enrich lives, with incredible experiences, is by creating a process that is easy to use, streamlined and efficient, which educates, provides knowledge and intelligence, enabling informed decisions.” OzTREKK Director Matt Miernik

University of Melbourne students using the OzTREKK Shuttle

Well, don’t worry. As part of the OzTREKK Orientations, we host a welcome breakfast, lunch or dinner. It is a great way to meet other new Canadian students, so that you can establish a network and friends right away. It’s also a great way to meet upper-year Canadians who can show you the ropes and share their experiences with you so that you know what to expect.

The welcome events are fantastic, as by the end of the event, you have shared contact details with your new mates and have instant friends! You start to go through your journey with someone else, which is so much fun!

“What made you guys stand out was the fact that not only is this your business, but it is your passion in what you do. It’s hard to find people who really love what they do—but the team at OzTREKK really do!” H Lo, (University of Toronto grad), University of Melbourne, Doctor of Dental Surgery, 2013

OzTREKK Shuttle: Getting you set up

Knowing firsthand what it takes to move to the other side of the planet and get yourself prepared for your studies, Beth and Matt set up the ever-popular OzTREKK Shuttle.

What exactly is the OzTREKK Shuttle?

Imagine your own personal taxi service—without the fee! Beth and Matt pick you up in their van and take you to wherever you need to go. Need groceries? No dramas! Need to find accommodation? No dramas! Need to open a bank account? No dramas! Just need to get the lay of the land? No worries, mate! The OzTREKK Shuttle is there to pick you up and take you wherever you need to go.

Why?

We know how important it is for you to be well established, organized and set up before you commence your studies. Your success depends on how ready you are for your studies and the only way to be ready is to have everything organized!

OzTREKK Shuttle brings UQ students where they need to go

OzTREKK Shuttle brings new University of Queensland Medical School students where they need to go

Having a local Australian on the ground in Australia also helps as there are many differences between Canada and Australia. From little things like walking and driving on the other side of the street to buying transit passes, mobile phones and hooking up internet connections. What is a dunny? Do I tip? OzTREKK is here to help you understand the Aussie way of life.

Running the OzTREKK Orientations is the best job in the world!

The only downside is the few students who don’t apply via OzTREKK and are therefore not OzTREKK students. Why? Because many of them arrive on campus unprepared. Not knowing anyone and struggling in the first few weeks of studies is really like being behind the “8 ball.” When they meet with the OzTREKK students, they then all wish that they applied via OzTREKK as they regret being unprepared and missing the social interaction. It is so unfortunate to see….

The OzTREKK mission is to prepare students for a first-class international educational experience in Australia. We are your Canadian connection to Study in Australia! All of our goals support the OzTREKK philosophy: life is a journey. Enjoy yours!

Tags: Australian universities, Australian university, James Cook University Dental School, JCU, Melbourne Medical School, OzTREKK, OzTREKK educational services, OzTREKK Orientations, OzTREKK Scholarships, OzTREKK Shuttle, philosophy, scholarship, Study in Australia, Sydney Dental School, Sydney Medical School, University of Melbourne, University of Queensland Medical School, UQ
Posted in Australian Dental Schools in Australia, Australian Medical Schools, News Blog | Comments Off

Tuesday, March 5th, 2013

Prepare for the MCAT

Students preparing for medical school know they will probably have to write the MCAT, but sometimes the hard part is organizing themselves to study for this test. The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess the examinee’s problem solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of science concepts and principles is an important prerequisite for medical schools in North America and Australia. Scores are reported in Physical Sciences, Verbal Reasoning, and Biological Sciences. Preparation for such an important test is crucial for success.

Prepare for the MCAT

How do you prepare for the MCAT?

It is recommended that you give yourself a minimum of at least three months for preparation:

Prepare yourself by creating a step-by-step study plan. Make a promise to yourself that you’ll follow it meticulously. Figure out what you’ll need to review, what materials you’ll require, what kinds of practice tests you’ll need to take and whether you’ll need any remedial assistance.
Do a “Google” search for MCAT preparation. Consider purchasing The Official Guide to the MCAT® Exam, 3rd Edition, available on the official MCAT website. Beware of some MCAT prep books and courses. Often, these courses are touted as the best, but often only provide exam-taking tips and not the important content.
Relearn your undergraduate math, physics, biology, general chemistry and organic chemistry coursework. Then do it again. You’ll quickly identify some of your strengths and weaknesses in the process. Systematically reviewing the content of your class notes and introductory textbooks is a great start. Having the basic knowledge introduced in your undergraduate science and biology courses is the best foundation. Consider studying for the MCAT as your “other” full-time job. This is a big deal!
Take the practice tests. The MCAT website also offers a free online practice test, with unlimited usage. This test offers real MCAT items from previously administered exams and all the features of the other practice tests. Taking an e-MCAT Practice Test helps you get comfortable with the MCAT format so you feel more prepared come test day. You can take a free test under timed conditions to get a baseline score giving you an idea of how you might score if you took the test today. Go through every practice test and identify the questions that you got wrong and analyze why you didn’t know the right answer. This can point out your weakest subjects.
Prepare yourself physically and mentally. All-nighters and junk-food diets do little to help the body prepare. Make sure you continue “normal life” activities, including aerobic exercise and proper nutrition.
Consider studying with others. A small study group can often produce better results than a solo effort.
Ask someone. Whether they’ve taken the MCAT or a comparable standardized test, you can reach out for advice on what to expect. A face-to-face exchange of ideas with an experienced professor, doctor, or friend presents an excellent learning opportunity.
Be prepared for test day. When does the test start? Where is the test located? How do you get there? What materials should you bring? Make sure to consider these questions well before the test day. Whether it’s driving to the test location or picking out your clothes, simplify every step of the process that could potentially cause a stressful distraction.

What is an e-MCAT Practice Test like?

It’s just like the actual exam. Every e-MCAT Practice Test is a previously administered exam and consists of the same number of items as the actual exam.

The only thing different about the 2013 and 2014 e-MCAT Practice Test is that they will not have a Writing Sample section. The 2013 examinees will not take the Writing Sample section of the MCAT exam. The Writing Sample section was removed to make room for a MCAT Trial Section. The Trial Section is a voluntary section that asks you to test out questions for a future version of the MCAT.

Test format:

Tutorial (optional) – 10 minutes
Examinee Agreement – 10 minutes (not timed on practice test)
Physical Sciences – 52 items – 70 minutes
Break (optional) – 10 minutes
Verbal Reasoning – 40 items – 60 minutes
Break (optional) – 10 minutes
Biological Sciences – 52 items – 70 minutes
Void Question – 5 minutes (not timed on practice test)
Break (optional and not on practice test) – 10 minutes
Trial Section (optional and not on practice test) – 32 items – 45 minutes
Survey (optional and not on practice test) – 12 items – 10 minutes
Total Content Time – 4 hours, 5 minutes
Total “Seat” Time – Approximately 5 hours, 10 minutes

OzTREKK recommends that you visit the official MCAT website for all of the important details regarding the test.

Want to learn more about preparing yourself for medical school in Australia? Check out other OzTREKK blogs about the MCAT:

What is the MCAT?

MCAT registration tips

MCAT registration dates

OzTREKK is the Canadian expert on Australian medical schools. Every year, we help hundreds of Canadian students choose the right Australian medical school program. Ninety percent of the international students studying medicine at the University of Queensland applied via OzTREKK.

If you are interested in medical school in Australia, please contact OzTREKK‘s Medical School Admissions Officer Broghan Dean or call toll free 1 866-698-7355 for more information about studying medicine in Australia at the following Australian universities:

Tags: Australian Medical School, Australian Medical Schools, Australian universities, e-MCAT Practice Test, James Cook University Medical School, MCAT, MCAT website, Medical College Admission Test, medical school, Medical School in Australia, medical schools, Monash University Medical School, OzTREKK, practice test, practice tests, studying medicine, Studying medicine in Australia, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical Program, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney Medical School
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, News Blog | Comments Off

Tuesday, March 5th, 2013

Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) match results out today

CaRMS match results are out today! (March 5 @ 12:oo EST). All of us at OzTREKK would like to wish all the Canadians who have completed their medical degree at an Australian medical school all the best of luck in their Canadian residency match!

Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) match results out today

About Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS)

The Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) is an impartial, not-for-profit organization that provides a fair and transparent online process to match medical students and residents with medical residency positions throughout Canada.

In operation since 1970, CaRMS has built its reputation on providing an orderly, reliable match service that students and medical faculties can trust. With the tools and resources CaRMS offers, medical students and residents can decide where to train and program directors can select suitable applicants.

CaRMS plays a highly valued role in supporting and enhancing the excellence of the Canadian health care education system and strives to ensure that all of the processes in the matching program meet the highest standards for accuracy, transparency, fairness and equity.

If you have graduated from a Medical School in Australia, you need to apply to CaRMS if you want a medical residency in Canada. Australian medical school graduates who have applied for a residency in the match have fared very well in the past.

About Medical School in Australia

OzTREKK is the most trusted source of information for international students looking at studying medicine in Australia. We are the experts in admission requirements and application procedures to Australian medical schools, and we guide you through the differences between undergraduate streams and graduate-entry streams, and the considerations for practicing medicine following graduation.

Each year, more than 90% of Canadians that commence their medical studies at any of the below Australian medical schools, submit their applications via OzTREKK.

Check out the following Australian medical schools:

Monash University Medical School
University of Melbourne Medical School
University of Queensland Medical School
University of Sydney Medical School
James Cook University Medical School

For more information about medical school entry requirements, application deadlines, tuition fees, and scholarships, please visit OzTREKK‘s Australian medical schools page.

If you have any questions, please contact OzTREKK‘s Australian Medical School Admissions Officer Broghan Dean.

Email Broghan at broghan@oztrekk.com or call toll free 1 866-698-7355.

Tags: admission requirements, Australian Medical Schools, Canadian Resident Matching Service, CaRMS, James Cook University Medical School, medical, medical school, medical school in Austalia, Medical School in Australia, medical schools, Medicine, Monash University Medical School, residency, Studying medicine in Australia, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney Medical School
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, News Blog | Comments Off

Tuesday, February 26th, 2013

Monash medicine tutor trekking for a good cause

An adventure of a lifetime awaits Dr Chris Harvey of Monash University as she prepares to trek through northern Vietnam to raise money for disadvantaged children and families.

The medicine tutor at Monash University Medical School, GP at Brighton Medical Clinic, consultant at Ford Health and mother of three will head to Vietnam in May for a 12-day combined walking and cycling trek to raise funds for Melbourne based not-for-profit organization Windermere.

Monash Medical School's Dr Chris Harvey

Dr Harvey, from the Department of General Practice at the Monash University Medical School, who initially pursued a career in medicine because of her desire to work in third world countries, said she saw the adventure challenge as the perfect opportunity to fulfill her goal.

“When I turned fifty I realized I still hadn’t got to my goal of spending some time each year working overseas, so many other commitments seem to get in the way,” Dr Harvey said. “I am really looking forward to the challenge and have never been to Vietnam before. Many of the Monash students I teach have had wonderful elective experiences and I know they would agree with me when I say I believe you often get more from these experiences than you could have ever imagined.”

Dr Harvey hopes to raise $6500 to take part in the challenge with $3000 going toward Windermere, which provides vital support services and programs for children and families in need in Melbourne’s southeast.

The experience will also incorporate visits to two charities for disadvantaged youth in Vietnam, Know One Teach One (KOTO) where participants will cook with students, and Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation to learn more about the vital work they do for children in crisis.

If you are interested in medical school in Australia, please contact OzTREKK Medical School Admissions Officer Broghan Dean for more information about studying medicine in Australia at the following Australian universities:

Email Broghan: broghan@oztrekk.com or call toll free 1 866-698-7355

Tags: Australian Medical School, Australian universities, James Cook University Medical School, Medical Schools in Australia, Medicine, Monash University, Monash University Medical School, OzTREKK, Study in Australia, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney Medical School
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, News Blog, University News | Comments Off

Monday, February 25th, 2013

MCAT test centre locations

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess the examinee’s problem solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine. Scores are reported in Physical Sciences, Verbal Reasoning, and Biological Sciences. OzTREKK recommends that you visit the official MCAT website for all of the important details regarding the test, including testing dates and locations.

The MCAT is administered multiple times from late January through early September, and offered at hundreds of test sites in the United States, Canada, and around the world. Below is a list of some of the major testing centres in Canada. These test sites and addresses are subject to change throughout the year. To know if any of the sites have seats available for a particular test date, or to verify the address of a site for which you are already registered, you must log in to the MCAT Scheduling & Registration System.

Test Centres in Ontario

Prometric Test Center 4 Hughson St. South 5th Floor. Trios Office Hamilton, L8N 3Z1	Prometric Test Center 520 First Street Unit 1 London, N5V 3C6	Dewey College 2 5889 Coopers Ave 2nd Floor Mississauga, L4Z 1P9	Dewey College 3 5889 Coopers Avenue Mississauga, L4Z 1P9
Dewey College 1 5889 Coopers Avenue 2nd Floor Mississauga, L4Z 1P9	Prometric Test Center 5303 Canotek Road Shefford Plaza Unit 2 Ottawa, K1J 9M2	IT Planit 2 IT Planit 151 Slater Street, Suite 301 Ottawa, K1P 5H3	IT Planit 1 IT Planit 151 Slater Street, Suite 301 Ottawa, K1P 5H3
Canadian Business College 2 2 Bloor St. West 22nd Floor Toronto, M4W 3E2	PTC/Willis College – McCowan 1 2061 McCowan Road Suite 207 Scarborough, M1S 3Y6	McDonald International Academy McDonald International Academy 920 Yonge Street. 2nd Floor Toronto, M4W 3C7	Canadian Business College 1 2 Bloor St. West Toronto, M4W 3E2
Cestar College of Business, Health And Technology 3080 Yonge St. Suite 3040 Toronto, M4N 3N1	PTC/Willis College – Rimrock 1 265 Rimrock Road Suite 211 Toronto, M3J 3C6	Prometric Test Center 425 Bloor St. East Suite 202 Toronto, M4W 3R4	Prometric Test Center Cestar College 265 Yorkland Blvd Suite 302 Toronto, M2J 0A3

Test Centres in Quebec

Prometric Test Center
800 Rene Levesque West
Suite 1530
Montreal, Canada H3B 1X9

Find out where you can write the MCAT

Test Centres in Alberta

Prometric Test Center
4014 Macleod Trail S
Suite 215
Calgary, Canada T2G 2R7

Mosaic Learning Institute

1040 7th Ave SW Suite 120
Calgary, Canada T2P 3G9

Prometric Test Center
6715 177th St. NW
Co-located w/ Sylvan Learning Ctr
Edmonton, Canada T5T 4K3

Business Career College
206 Capilano Mall
2nd floor
Edmonton, Canada Edmonton

MCAT Only
Trimac House
5th Ave SW Suite 100-800
Calgary, Canada T2P 3T6

Test Centres in British Columbia

Prometric Test Center
454-4800 Kingsway
Metrotown Cambridge College
Burnaby, Canada V5H 4J2

Ashton College
Ashton College
1190 Melville St.
Vancouver, Canada V6E3W1

Cambridge College
454-4800 Kingsway
Burnaby, Canada V5H 4J2

Camosun College – MCAT Only
3100 Foul Bay Rd
Dawson Building Room 213
Victoria, Canada BC V8P 5J2

Test Centres in Manitoba

Prometric Test Center
200 Meadowood Drive
Unit 17
Winnipeg, Canada R2M 5G3

Prometric Testing Center – MCAT Only
1-1530 Taylor Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3N 1Y1

Test Centres in Newfoundland & Labrador

Prometric Test Center
Division of Lifelong Learning
Spencer Hall, Memorial University
Room SP4004, Prince Phillip Drive
Memorial University of Newfoundland
St. John’s, Canada A1C 5S7

Test Centres in Nova Scotia

Prometric Test Center
6440 Quinpool Rd
Halifax, Canada B3L 1A8

International Language Institute – MCAT Only
7071 Bayers Road
Halifax, Canada B3L 2C2

Test Centres in Saskatchewan

Prometric Test Center
407 1st. Ave. North
Saskatoon, Canada S7K 1X5

For more information about the MCAT, please refer to the official MCAT website or call 202-828-0690.

OzTREKK will continue to post blogs to help you understand the MCAT in order to help you prepare, including preparation tips, registration, MCAT testing dates, test rules, understanding your MCAT score, etc.

Tags: Australian Medical Schools, Australian universities, James Cook University Medical School, MCAT, MCAT Scheduling & Registration System, MCAT testing dates, MCAT website, Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), Medical School in Australia, Medicine, Monash University Medical School, OzTREKK, Study in Australia, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney Medical School
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, News Blog | Comments Off

Friday, February 22nd, 2013

MCAT registration tips

What to Expect During the MCAT Registration Process

So, you know you want to go to medical school. You also know you need to write the MCAT! Here are some handy MCAT registration tips to help make the process run smoothly:

MCAT registration tips

1. Review the MCAT scheduling and registration demo
The easiest thing to do to help explain everything: The MCAT Scheduling & Registration System demo provides additional information and tips for using the registration system. It’s an easy-to-follow PDF of screenshots of what the actual registration looks like. Best be prepared!

2. Register early
For the best chance at registering for your preferred test date or location, it is recommended you register a minimum of two months in advance of the exam day. You must register online; walk-in registration is not available. Deadlines are generally 14 days prior to the exam date.

3. Enter your name in the Scheduling and Registration system exactly as it appears on your identification
If your name on your registration does not match your ID, you will not be permitted to write the test. The “Last Name” field in the registration system will allow you to enter two names. For example, if you have two family or surnames on your ID but you have entered only one on your registration, you will not be allowed to test. Other examples include entering your initials in the registration when your ID includes your full name, or entering an “English” version of your name that does not match your ID. Your first and last name on your ID must match the first and last name on your registration. If you need to make a change to your registration, you must make it by the late registration deadline (OzTREKK blog post “MCAT registration dates“).

4. Test early if you plan to test more than once
If you think you may test two or three times this year, it is recommended that you plan your first attempt for January, March, April, or May. Since you can only hold one seat at a time, a nearby seat may not be available for you by the time you are allowed to register for August and September if you make your first attempt in June or July. Make sure you know the Australian medical school’s deadline to submit MCAT scores, and for how long they are valid.

5. Ensure your contact information is accurate
Occasionally, MCAT exam dates have to be rescheduled due to inclement weather, server outages, and other facilities issues. You are responsible for ensuring that your contact information is correct and current at all times. You can sign into the MCAT Scheduling & Registration System at any time to double-check or update your information. This includes providing a working email address. Make sure you check your “spam” folder or set up your email to accept emails from AAMC.

6. Check your registration the day before test day
Sign in to the MCAT Scheduling & Registration System before you go to make sure you have the current address of your test centre. Make sure you have the current address, date, time, etc. A change may have occurred.

7. Review your credit card statement for charges
If you experience problems with your transaction, please contact the MCAT Program Office: 202-828-0690 or mcat@aamc.org. All fees for MCAT exam appointments must be paid in full before you will be allowed to test.

OzTREKK will continue to post blogs to help you understand the MCAT in order to help you prepare, including MCAT registration dates, exam locations, test rules etc.

If you are interested in medical school in Australia, please contact OzTREKK Medical School Admissions Officer Broghan Dean for more information about studying medicine in Australia at the following Australian universities:

Tags: Australian Medical Schools, James Cook University Medical School, MCAT, MCAT registration, MCAT registration dates, MCAT Scheduling & Registration System, MCAT Scheduling & Registration System demo, MCAT website, Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), Medical Schools in Australia, Medicine, Monash University Medical School, OzTREKK, studying medicine at the University of Queensland, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney Medical School, What is the MCAT?
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, News Blog | Comments Off

Thursday, February 21st, 2013

UQ professor’s research helps Parkinson’s patients

People with Parkinson’s disease who receive Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy in the early stages of the condition will benefit from a significant increase in quality of life, a revolutionary study from The New England Journal of Medicine has found.

World-leading neurologist and lead clinician UQ Professor Peter Silburn from the Asia-Pacific Centre for Neuromodulation (APCN), a joint initiative of the University of Queensland (UQ) and St Andrew’s Hospital, said the results published recently in the medical journal would transform the way we treat people with Parkinson’s disease.

“Before the release of this study, a typical patient with Parkinson’s disease would need to wait around ten years or until their motor complications could no longer be treated successfully with medicine alone, before DBS surgery was considered an option,” UQ Professor Silburn said. “This study has confirmed the best medical practice for a person with Parkinson’s disease is to perform DBS surgery around four to seven years into the condition, as opposed to waiting until the medications stop working.”

As one of the world’s top five centre’s conducting DBS surgery, Professor Silburn said the APCN’s responsibility to educate and train people in the delivery of DBS surgery has never been more important and patients should be aware of seeking advice from experienced DBS practitioners only.

“One thing that may hinder this study from being adopted earlier in Australia is that very few neurologists and neurosurgeons have been trained in performing DBS surgery,” Professor Silburn said. He also added that patients should be more quickly refereed to a Deep Brain Stimulation specialist.

The University of Queensland professor hopes this study will serve as a paradigm shift in the way patients with Parkinson’s disease think about their treatment options, dispelling the assumptions about being too old, too young, or too far along in the disease to be suitable for DBS surgery.

“My message to people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease is this—it doesn’t matter what age you are, or how far along you are in the disease, you don’t have to persist with the drugs, or wait until you’re so bad that nothing else helps, before considering DBS surgery,” Professor Silburn said.

UQ Professor Peter Silburn was also appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2013 Australia Day Honours, awarded for his “significant service to medicine as a neurologist, particularly in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.”

UQ Faculty of Health Sciences

The University of Queensland Faculty of Health Sciences is a major force in health education and research in Australia and offers a diverse range of study and research opportunities founded on a history of teaching excellence. The faculty unites the disciplines of the following:

UQ School of Medicine

The University of Queensland Medical School is a leading provider of medical education and research in Queensland, with the country’s largest medical degree program. This medical program includes graduate entry and school-leaver entry streams, and is an integrated, case/problem-based learning program.

UQ School of Medicine is known as “Australia’s Global Medical School,” and conducts a four-year graduate entry medical program, the Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS).

Study medicine at the University of Queensland – Apply now!

Learn more about UQ Medical School. Contact OzTREKK Medical School Admissions Officer Broghan Dean for more information about studying medicine at an Australian university.

Email Broghan: broghan@oztrekk.com

Toll free: 1 866-698-7355

Tags: Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), DBS, Deep Brain Stimulation, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy, dentistry, health sciences, medical program, Medicine, nursing, OzTREKK, Pharmacy, Population Health, rehabilitation sciences, Study in Australia, University of Queensland, University of Queensland Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Queensland Medical School, UQ, UQ Professor Silburn
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, News Blog, University News, University of Queensland Medical School, Video Corner | Comments Off

Tuesday, February 19th, 2013

Monash Medical School applications are now closed

While the application deadline for Monash University Medical School has now officially passed, other medical schools in Australia are still accepting applications!

Apply to an Australian Medical School

Applications to the undergraduate- and graduate-entry medical programs at Australian medical schools in Australia for the 2014 intake are open via OzTREKK.

You can still apply to the following Australian Medical Schools via OzTREKK:

University of Melbourne Medical School

University of Queensland Medical School

University of Sydney Medical School

James Cook University Medical School

To commence the medical school application process, simply click on one of the above Australian Medical Schools.

University of Melbourne Medical School

Program: Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Duration: 4 years
Next semester intake: February 2014
Application deadline: TBA

Apply to the University of Melbourne Medical School

University of Queensland Medical School

Program: Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery
Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Duration: 4 years
Next semester intake: January 2014
Application deadline: Rolling admissions

Apply to the University of Queensland Medical School

University of Sydney Medical School

Program: Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery
Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Duration: 4 years
Next semester intake: February 2014
Application deadline: June 28, 2013

Apply to the University of Sydney Medical School

James Cook University Medical School

Program: Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery
Location: Townsville, Queensland, Australia
Duration: 6 years
Next semester intake: February 2014
Application deadline: Aug. 30, 2013

Apply to James Cook University Medical School

OzTREKK is the most trusted source of information for international students looking at studying medicine in Australia. We are the experts in admissions requirements and application procedures to Australian medical schools, and we guide you through the differences between undergraduate streams and graduate-entry streams, and the considerations for practicing medicine following graduation.

Each year, more than 90% of Canadians that commence their medical studies at any of the below Australian Medical Schools, submit their applications via OzTREKK.

For more information about medical school entry requirements, application deadlines, tuition fees, and scholarships, please visit OzTREKK‘s Australian medical schools in Australia page.

If you have any questions, please email OzTREKK‘s Australian Medical School Admissions Officer Broghan Dean, or call 1 866-698-7355 (toll free in Canada).

Tags: Australian Medical Schools, Australian Medical Schools in Australia, James Cook University Medical School, medical programs, Monash University Medical School, OzTREKK, Studying medicine in Australia, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney Medical School
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, Career Spotlight, News Blog | Comments Off

Thursday, February 14th, 2013

What is the MCAT?

So, just what is the MCAT?

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess the examinee’s problem solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine. Scores are reported in Physical Sciences, Verbal Reasoning, and Biological Sciences. The test is usually an all-day affair. OzTREKK recommends that you visit the official MCAT website for all of the important details regarding the test.

What is the MCAT?

Almost all U.S. and many Canadian medical schools require applicants to submit MCAT exam scores. It is also important to note that medical schools in Australia that require the MCAT as part of their entry requirements have an exam score cutoff date. For example, for the 2014 intake, only MCAT score from January 2011 onward will be accepted.

Graduate-entry medical programs from University of Melbourne, the University of Queensland, the University of Sydney and Monash University do require applicants to sit a medical admission test, such as the MCAT, which is North American, or the Graduate Australian Medical Schools Admissions Test (GAMSAT).

What is on the MCAT exam?

These topics are covered on the test and outline the cognitive skills that may be assessed for each section of the exam:

Physical Science Content Outline
Biological Sciences Content Outline
Verbal Reasoning Content Areas
Physical and Biological Sciences Cognitive Skills
Verbal Reasoning Cognitive Skills

What’s new about the MCAT?

Examinees should note that the “Writing Sample” portion is no longer included in the MCAT as of January 2013.

Also to note, beginning in January 2013, examinees will have the opportunity to volunteer for the Trial Section. The Trial Section is a voluntary and unscored section that asks you to test out questions for a future version of the MCAT. It will be the last section of the test and will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.

Even with the Trial Section, the test day is shorter than it was for previous examinees. Instead of spending 60 minutes writing MCAT essays, you are asked to test out 32 new questions in either biochemistry, biology, chemistry, and physics, or in psychology, sociology and biology.

You do not need to prepare for the Trial Section. You will get questions based on the answers that you provided during MCAT registration about the courses that you’ve taken. Whenever possible, the AAMC will assign questions from courses you’ve already completed. This section of the test is for trial purposes only. You will not be graded and it will not contribute in any way to your MCAT score.

If you volunteer to participate, you’ll have an opportunity to preview content that medical school admissions officers want applicants to know.

You cannot pre-register for the Trial Section; however, you will be invited to take the Trial Section after you complete the core “scored” sections of the exam, chose to have your MCAT scored and by answering “Yes” to the statement “Please indicate below if you would like to participate in the Trial Section”.

Scoring

You will receive a separate score for each of the first three content sections of the MCAT, as well as a total score. The following explains scoring in detail and highlights certain aspects of the process. Examinees who elect to void the scored portion of the MCAT will not receive a score on the exam and will not be given the opportunity to participate in the Trial Section.

Physical Sciences, Verbal Reasoning, and Biological Sciences

These sections are scored from a low of 1 to a high of 15.
Every form of the MCAT measures the same basic skills and concepts. Each form is different in regard to the specific questions it uses. Because each form has the potential to be slightly more difficult or easy than another, raw scores are converted to a scale that takes into consideration the level of difficulty of the test questions on a given form. This conversion minimizes variability in the meaning of test scores across forms.
There is no penalty for guessing.
Your total score is the sum of the three individual section scores.

OzTREKK will continue to post blogs to help you understand the MCAT in order to help you prepare, including registration information, exam locations, test rules etc.

Tags: Australian Medical Schools, James Cook University Medical School, MCAT, MCAT website, Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), Medical Schools in Australia, Medicine, Monash University Medical School, OzTREKK, studying medicine at the University of Queensland, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney Medical School, What is the MCAT?
Posted in Australian Medical Schools, News Blog | Comments Off

Friday, February 8th, 2013

The OzTREKKER – February 2013 Edition

Where does a good old Canadian game of hockey coincide with footy and surfing? While studying medicine at the University of Melbourne in Australia, of course!

In this month’s edition of the OzTREKKER, Australian medical student Christopher Ford gives insight into the life of a third-year Doctor of Medicine OzTREKK student. From advice on connectivity for Canucks to the highlights of the program, Ford talks about his studies as the first cohort of the new program at the University of Melbourne. What’s his favourite thing to do outside of class time? Find out in this month’s edition of the The OzTREKKER!

Also between the pages of the February edition of the OzTREKKER:

OzTREKK Occurrances: It’s a busy time of year for OzTREKK as we host information sessions and Study in Australia Fairs in Canada, while also holding Welcome to Oz events in Australia – all to keep our students top of mind. At our winter Study in Australia Fairs, representatives from Bond University, James Cook University, Monash University, the University of Melbourne and the University of Queensland fueled students’ passion for travel and education. Have fun learning more about our events, which aim to make our students’ relocation more comprehensive and comfortable.

Program porthole: We delve into medicine at our university partners as our Program of the Month for February. We take a look at what UQ, University of Melbourne, Monash University, University of Sydney and James Cook University have to offer international students on the medicine front!

Exciting e-healthcare: The University of Queensland is meeting high demand and adding more courses in its e-healthcare spectrum. The e-health and telehealth sectors are rapidly growing in Australia – read about what UQ is doing to be proactive about it.

Grab a coffee, sit back and learn more from the February edition of The OzTREKKER about why it makes sense to study in Australia with OzTREKK. Read on, OzTREKKERs!

Tags: Australian Medical Schools in Australia, Bond University, February 2013 OzTREKKER, February OzTREKKER, James Cook University Medical School, JCU, Monash University, Monash University Medical School, OzTREKK, Study in Australia, The OzTREKKER, University of Melbourne, University of Melbourne Medical School, University of Queensland Medical School, University of Sydney, University of Sydney Medical School, UQ
Posted in News Blog, Newsletter, University News | Comments Off

Share this!

Archives

Categories

Cloud Tags