For students in Ireland aiming to study medicine or certain health professions, the Health Professions Admissions Test (HPAT ) is a crucial part of the application process.
Sitting alongside the Leaving Certificate and the CAO application, this demanding test assesses skills beyond school subjects. It is easy to become overwhelmed by the workload, especially as the HPAT exam takes place around the mock examination window. So, preparation is key.
Here is the Galway Advertiser’s guide on how students can approach their HPAT journey with confidence.
What is the HPAT and when is it held?
The HPAT is a 2.5-hour computer-based test used by Irish universities to help select students for undergraduate medicine and certain allied health programmes. It consists of three sections: Logical reasoning and problem solving, Interpersonal understanding, and Non-verbal reasoning.
There are 114 multiple-choice questions in total. Each of the three HPAT scores is expressed on a scale of 0 to 100. These are not percentage marks, you will receive a score for each of the three sections, together with an overall score and an overall percentile ranking to indicate your performance compared to other HPAT test-takers sitting in the same year as you.
For 2026, the HPAT is scheduled to run over a series of dates in mid-February – from 13 to 16 February 2026. Applicants must register, choose a timeslot, and sit the exam remotely under supervision.
Practice, practice, practice
Effective HPAT preparation focuses less on specific facts and more on mastering the types of questions and timekeeping required.
Familiarise yourself with the question formats in all three sections so you know what to expect. Practice under timed conditions to build comfort with working efficiently. Review your practice exams critically to uncover patterns in mistakes and focus on weaker areas.
Official HPAT preparation materials are published by ACER — the body that administers the test. These are invaluable for gaining insight into question styles and the online testing environment.
Colleges and private providers across Ireland — from online programmes to weekend revision sessions — offer guided instruction, mock exams and strategic tips on tackling each section of the HPAT. These programmes can be especially useful for students who benefit from a set study rhythm and expert feedback.
Beware of registration dates
HPAT registration opened in November and closes on February 1. Students should register early, then book a suitable test timeslot using the ProctorU platform. Given that slots can fill up, securing your preferred date and time sooner rather than later can reduce unnecessary stress.
Check out the Acer HPAT-Ireland website for all information relating to registration, preparation, and test day. Understanding the remote testing setup — including technical checks and practice runs — is also important to avoid last-minute issues on test day itself.
Your health is your wealth
Preparing for the HPAT alongside the pressures of sixth year study can be demanding. Building in regular breaks, maintaining good sleep routines, and keeping up with non-academic interests can all contribute to better focus and sustained motivation.
Start early, structure your prep, and pace yourself. Confidence often comes from consistency.
With thoughtful preparation and steady effort, students can approach the HPAT with both competence and confidence—giving themselves the best possible chance of succeeding.
