Top 10 Mistakes Students Make When Preparing for the ISAT
The ISAT (International Student Admissions Test) is a critical assessment for students applying to medical and dental schools in Australia. While preparation can be a daunting task, avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in achieving a high score. Below, we explore the top 10 mistakes students make when preparing for the ISAT and how you can avoid them.
Many students approach ISAT preparation as they would any traditional academic exam—focusing on content-heavy revision or memorisation. This is a major misstep. The ISAT is a skills-based test that assesses logical reasoning, abstract problem-solving, and critical thinking—not subject-specific knowledge. Without understanding this, students may waste time on ineffective study methods and fail to build the cognitive flexibility the exam demands.
Before diving into prep, take time to understand what the ISAT actually tests, how it’s structured, and what Australian universities are looking for. Fraser’s Medical offers a range of free, insightful resources to help you get a clear picture:
- What is the ISAT Test?
- What is a Good ISAT Score?
- How to Prepare for the ISAT Exam
- Is the ISAT Hard?
- Australian Universities that Accept ISAT
Starting with the right mindset and strategy can make a significant difference in your performance.
Effective time management is essential when preparing for the ISAT. Many students focus too much on one subject while neglecting others, resulting in an unbalanced preparation. It’s crucial to allocate specific time slots for each section and stick to them.
Tip: Create a study schedule and prioritise subjects based on your strengths and weaknesses. Stick to the plan and adjust it as needed.
One of the biggest mistakes is not thoroughly understanding the ISAT exam format. Many students are surprised by the number of questions or the types of problems in each section.
Tip: Familiarise yourself with the format by reviewing practice exams and ISAT sample questions. Understand how the exam is structured, including the sections, time limits, and question types.
Many students make the mistake of overlooking practice tests, assuming that passive study methods—like reading textbooks or watching YouTube tutorials—are enough to succeed in the ISAT. However, the ISAT is not a content-heavy exam; it's a skills-based test designed to assess problem-solving, critical reasoning, and abstract thinking under strict time conditions. These skills can only be honed through active engagement, and practice tests are the most effective way to do so.
Fraser’s Medical offers a FREE Sample ISAT Exam with In-Depth Explained Answers that closely mirrors the real test in structure and difficulty. This resource not only provides a realistic testing experience but also includes detailed explanations that teach you how to think through complex questions—something most generic study materials fail to deliver. Reviewing your performance using tools like this gives you a powerful edge, turning mistakes into learning opportunities and sharpening your cognitive flexibility over time.
While understanding the theoretical concepts is crucial, the ISAT also tests your ability to apply that knowledge in real-life scenarios. Focusing too much on memorisation without practicing application can be detrimental.
Tip: In addition to reviewing theory, practice applying concepts through problems and case studies. Use online platforms that provide application-based questions.
Many students fail to review their mistakes from practice tests and quizzes. This can result in the repetition of errors, which is a waste of valuable study time.
Tip: After every practice test, review the questions you got wrong. Take time to understand why you made those mistakes and how to correct them.
One of the most common mistakes students make is assuming that the ISAT is similar to their high school or university exams, where success is based on memorising facts and learning content. In reality, the ISAT is a skills-based exam that focuses on critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving under time pressure. If you approach it like a content-heavy test, you’ll likely struggle to perform well.
Tip: Shift your mindset from studying “what” to studying “how.” Use practice questions and simulated exams to strengthen your reasoning processes. Focus on interpreting information, spotting patterns, and applying logic quickly and accurately. Fraser’s ISAT courses are specifically designed to train these core cognitive skills—not just deliver more information.
Procrastination is one of the most common mistakes students make when preparing for exams. Waiting until the last minute can lead to cramming, stress, and poor performance.
Tip: Start your preparation early. Break your study plan into manageable chunks and stick to deadlines to ensure you’re adequately prepared.
Exam preparation can be overwhelming, and many students neglect their mental and physical health. Stress, lack of sleep, and poor nutrition can negatively affect your ability to focus and retain information.
Tip: Maintain a healthy study routine by taking breaks, exercising, and ensuring you get adequate sleep. Stay positive and take care of your mental health by practicing mindfulness and stress-relief techniques.
Some students avoid asking for help when they struggle with certain concepts or question types, which can lead to frustration, wasted time, and stalled progress. Preparing for the ISAT—an exam designed to test your reasoning under pressure—can feel overwhelming without proper guidance.
Tip: Don’t hesitate to seek help from experts who understand the ISAT inside and out. While peer support and online resources can be helpful, structured guidance from professionals can dramatically accelerate your improvement. At Fraser’s Medical, our ISAT programs are built around targeted skill development, strategic feedback, and personalised coaching—backed by a 100% success rate in helping students gain admission to ISAT-requiring medical schools in Australia. When you have access to the right mentors and methods, you're not just studying—you’re studying smart.
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