About the NMAT
Exam Overview
- Required for medical school admission in the Philippines
- 4 test parts covering different competencies
- Multiple-choice format
- ~20,000 test-takers annually
- Percentile-based scoring system
Test Structure
- Part I: Verbal (90 items)
- Part II: Quantitative (90 items)
- Part III: Inductive Reasoning (90 items)
- Part IV: Perceptual Acuity (90 items)
Fresh Questions Every Time
Our questions are constantly updated and randomized. No two quiz sessions are the same, ensuring a unique learning experience each time you practice. This helps you prepare more effectively by exposing you to varied question formats.
Verbal (Part I)
Vocabulary, reading comprehension, grammar, and language proficiency
Topics Covered (6)
- Vocabulary and Word Meanings
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Reading Comprehension
- Sentence Completion
- Grammar and Usage
- Medical Terminology
Quantitative (Part II)
Mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and quantitative analysis
Topics Covered (6)
- Algebra and Equations
- Geometry and Measurement
- Number Theory
- Word Problems
- Data Interpretation
- Medical Statistics and Dosages
Inductive Reasoning (Part III)
Pattern recognition, logical reasoning, and abstract thinking
Topics Covered (6)
- Number Sequences
- Pattern Recognition
- Logical Deduction
- Analogies and Relationships
- Series Completion
- Abstract Reasoning
Perceptual Acuity (Part IV)
Visual perception, attention to detail, and spatial reasoning
Topics Covered (6)
- Visual Discrimination
- Spatial Reasoning
- Detail Recognition
- Figure Comparison
- 3D Visualization
- Anatomical Structures
NMAT Study Tips
📅 3-Month NMAT Preparation Timeline
| Month | Focus Areas | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | Verbal & Quantitative Foundations | Build vocabulary (100 words/week), review algebra/geometry, practice reading comprehension (30 min/day) |
| Month 2 | Inductive Reasoning & Perceptual Acuity | Pattern recognition drills, logic puzzles, spatial reasoning exercises, visual discrimination practice |
| Month 3 | Full-Length Practice & Review | 4-hour mock exams (weekly), identify weak areas, time management drills, final review of all 4 parts |
⏱️ NMAT Test Structure & Time Allocation
| Part | Items | Time Limit | Seconds per Item |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part I: Verbal | 90 items | 60 minutes | 40 seconds |
| Part II: Quantitative | 90 items | 60 minutes | 40 seconds |
| Part III: Inductive Reasoning | 90 items | 60 minutes | 40 seconds |
| Part IV: Perceptual Acuity | 90 items | 30 minutes | 20 seconds |
| Total | 360 items | 210 minutes (3.5 hours) | 35 sec avg |
📖 Essential Medical Terminology for Verbal Section
| Medical Term | Definition | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Pathology | The study of disease | The pathologist examined the tissue sample |
| Etiology | The cause or origin of disease | The etiology of diabetes includes genetic factors |
| Prognosis | Predicted outcome of disease | The patient's prognosis is favorable |
| Tachycardia | Abnormally rapid heart rate (>100 bpm) | The patient presented with tachycardia after exercise |
| Analgesia | Absence of pain sensation | Analgesia was achieved through medication |
| Idiopathic | Disease of unknown cause | Idiopathic hypertension has no identifiable cause |
📊 NMAT Percentile Scoring Guide
| Percentile Rank | Performance Level | Medical School Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|
| 99th percentile | Exceptional - Top 1% | Highly competitive for UP, UST, UERM |
| 90-98th percentile | Excellent - Top 10% | Competitive for top medical schools |
| 75-89th percentile | Very Good - Top 25% | Good chances at most medical schools |
| 50-74th percentile | Average - Middle 50% | Acceptable for many medical schools |
| <50th percentile | Below Average | May need retake for competitive programs |
Note: Each medical school has different NMAT cutoff requirements. Research your target schools' admission criteria. Most schools consider NMAT as 40-60% of the admission decision, along with GPA, interview, and other factors.
🎯 Part-Specific Study Strategies
📚 Part I: Verbal
- • Read scientific journals daily (30 min)
- • Memorize 100 medical terms per week
- • Practice synonym/antonym flashcards
- • Take timed reading comprehension tests
- • Study Greek/Latin medical roots (e.g., "cardi-" = heart)
🔢 Part II: Quantitative
- • Review algebra formulas (quadratic, linear)
- • Practice geometry (area, volume, angles)
- • Solve 20 word problems daily
- • Master percentage calculations & ratios
- • Learn medical dosage calculations (mg/kg, mL/hr)
🧩 Part III: Inductive Reasoning
- • Solve number sequence puzzles daily
- • Practice pattern recognition (shapes, colors)
- • Study logical deduction problems
- • Work on analogies (A:B :: C:?)
- • Train abstract reasoning with IQ test apps
👁️ Part IV: Perceptual Acuity
- • Practice "spot the difference" exercises
- • Study anatomical diagrams (identify structures)
- • Improve spatial reasoning (3D puzzles)
- • Speed drills for visual discrimination
- • Practice figure comparison under time pressure
📚 Recommended Study Materials
Books & Review Centers
- • MSA Review Center - Comprehensive NMAT review
- • Ace Medical Review - NMAT practice tests
- • Barron's GRE Verbal - Advanced vocabulary
- • Manhattan Prep GRE Math - Quantitative practice
- • IQ & Aptitude Tests - Inductive reasoning drills
Online Resources
- • Quizlet - Medical terminology flashcards
- • Khan Academy - Math fundamentals review
- • IXL Math - Quantitative practice problems
- • Lumosity - Cognitive training & reasoning
- • Pinoy Reviewer NMAT - Free practice questions
💡 Effective Study Strategies
- • Practice time management - NMAT is time-pressured (40 sec/item average)
- • Build medical vocabulary through reading scientific articles daily
- • Strengthen math fundamentals and problem-solving speed
- • Practice pattern recognition daily with various puzzles and IQ tests
- • Develop visual discrimination skills through practice exercises
- • Take full-length mock exams weekly in Month 3
🎯 Test Day Success
- • Answer easy questions first, mark difficult ones for review
- • Eliminate obviously wrong options to improve odds (process of elimination)
- • Don't spend >60 seconds on any single question
- • Use educated guessing - there's no penalty for wrong answers
- • Stay calm and focused throughout the 3.5-hour exam
- • Bring valid ID, pencils, eraser, analog watch, and light snacks
Complete NMAT Coverage
4 test parts with 200+ practice questions with detailed explanations. Questions cover all competencies tested in the National Medical Admission Test.
Top Philippine Medical Schools & NMAT Requirements
| Medical School | NMAT Cutoff | Tuition (Annual) | Admission Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| UP College of Medicine (UPCM) | 99th percentile | ₱20,000 - ₱40,000 | ~5% |
| Ateneo School of Medicine (ASMPH) | 90th+ percentile | ₱400,000 - ₱500,000 | ~10% |
| UST Faculty of Medicine | 85th+ percentile | ₱250,000 - ₱350,000 | ~15% |
| UERM Memorial Medical Center | 80th+ percentile | ₱200,000 - ₱280,000 | ~20% |
| De La Salle Medical & Health Sciences | 75th+ percentile | ₱300,000 - ₱400,000 | ~18% |
| FEU Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation | 70th+ percentile | ₱180,000 - ₱250,000 | ~25% |
| Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) | 85th+ percentile | ₱10,000 - ₱20,000 | ~8% |
| Cebu Institute of Medicine | 60th+ percentile | ₱150,000 - ₱200,000 | ~30% |
Note: Tuition rates and NMAT cutoffs are approximate and subject to change. Contact schools directly for current requirements.
Total Cost of Medical School in the Philippines
Public Medical Schools (4-5 years)
- Tuition (Total)₱80,000 - ₱200,000
- Books & Materials₱50,000 - ₱100,000
- Uniforms & Equipment₱30,000 - ₱50,000
- Living Expenses (Total)₱400,000 - ₱600,000
- Total Estimated Cost₱560,000 - ₱950,000
Private Medical Schools (4-5 years)
- Tuition (Total)₱800,000 - ₱2,500,000
- Books & Materials₱50,000 - ₱100,000
- Uniforms & Equipment₱30,000 - ₱50,000
- Living Expenses (Total)₱400,000 - ₱800,000
- Total Estimated Cost₱1.3M - ₱3.5M
Scholarship Options: DOST-SEI Medical Scholarship, DOH Return Service Program, school-specific scholarships, and private foundations offer financial assistance for qualified students.
NMAT Registration Process & Schedule
📋 Registration Steps
- 1Create an account at CEM Online Application System
- 2Fill out application form with personal & educational info
- 3Upload requirements (photo, valid ID, transcript of records)
- 4Pay examination fee (₱1,500 - ₱2,000)
- 5Print examination permit and admission ticket
📅 NMAT Schedule (Typical)
Important: NMAT is administered by the Center for Educational Measurement (CEM). Results are released 3-4 weeks after the exam date. Scores are valid for 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to take the NMAT?
The NMAT examination fee is approximately ₱1,500 to ₱2,000, depending on the testing center and year. Additional fees may apply for late registration or rescheduling. You can retake the NMAT multiple times within a year to improve your percentile score.
How long is the NMAT score valid?
NMAT scores are valid for 2 years from the date of examination. This means you can use your NMAT score to apply to medical schools for two admission cycles. If your score expires, you will need to retake the exam.
Can I retake the NMAT to improve my score?
Yes, you can retake the NMAT multiple times. Most medical schools will consider your highest NMAT percentile score. There's no limit to the number of times you can take the exam, though it's administered only 4 times per year (March, June, October, December).
What should I bring on NMAT exam day?
On exam day, bring: (1) Printed NMAT admission ticket, (2) Two valid IDs with photo and signature, (3) Several #2 pencils and an eraser, (4) Analog watch (no smart watches), (5) Light snacks and water for breaks. Do NOT bring calculators, cellphones, or electronic devices into the testing room.
What is a competitive NMAT score for top medical schools?
For top medical schools like UP College of Medicine, aim for 99th percentile. UST and UERM typically require 85th-90th percentile. Most mid-tier schools accept 70th-80th percentile. Even if your score is lower, some schools have conditional admission programs or may consider other factors like GPA, interview, and extracurriculars.