By now, you should have a solid idea of the BMAT test structure and know what schools you are applying to.
In the BMAT, questions in Sections 1 and 2 are worth 1 mark each, giving a total of 32 points and 27 points respectively.
There is no negative marking for Section 1 and 2, and hence it is in your interest to attempt all questions. The total raw scores of both sections are converted to BMAT’s scale, which runs from 1 (low) to 9 (high), up to one decimal place.
Your essay in Section 3 is marked by two examiners. Each examiner gives two scores – one for quality of content (on a scale of 0–5), and one for quality of written English (on the scale A, C, E).
For the quality of content, here are how the scores are determined:
- Score 1: the essay has some bearing on the question but does not address it fully
- Score 2: addresses most of the question, but has significant elements of confusion
- Score 3: reasonably well-argued, may have weakness in the argument
- Score 4: good answer with few weaknesses, all aspects of the question are addressed
- Score 5: excellent answer with no significant weaknesses
For the use of written English, here are how the bands are determined:
- Band A: Good use of English – clear, fluent, good use of grammar and vocabulary
- Band C: Reasonably clear use of English – reasonably fluent, some errors
- Band E: Rather weak use of English – not easy to follow, faulty grammar
For example, if one examiner gave you 3A and another marked your essay 3C, your average score would be 3B.
If there is a significant discrepancy, your essay will be reassessed by a third examiner.