Wits GEMP Application 2024/2025: Step by Step Guide

The Wits Graduate Entry Medical Programme (GEMP) is a highly-regarded medical program offered by the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) in South Africa. This unique programme provides an opportunity for students with a prior undergraduate degree to enter the medical field [4] and pursue a career as a doctor. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide an overview of the Wits GEMP application process, requirements, and important details for the 2024–2025 academic year. Stay informed and increase your chances of success in this competitive programme.

WITS GEMP REQUIREMENTS

Before you start your Wits GEMP application, it is essential to understand the program’s requirements. Prospective students must meet specific academic and work experience prerequisites to be eligible for the GEMP at WITS.

Academic Requirements:

To apply for the Graduate Entry Medical Programme at WITS, applicants must meet the following academic requirements [8]:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Biological Sciences, Health Sciences, or Medical Sciences, from a recognised university
• Have a minimum average of 60% in their undergraduate degree
• Complete prerequisite courses in Physics, Chemistry, biology, or Life Sciences
• Sciences Requirements: (ALL of the following are compulsory) *
  1. 50% for first-year university degree-level Biology (Full course). Equivalent courses such as Anatomy, Physiology, Zoology, Life Sciences and similar courses will also be considered.
  2. 50% for first-year university degree-level Physics (Half Course).
  3. 50% for first-year university degree-level Chemistry (Half Course).
  4. The above three subjects MUST be completed in first-year of a university Bachelor’s degree or higher. Diploma or certificate studies will not be considered.
• Mathematics Requirement: (One of the following possibilities) *
  1. 60% for Matric Mathematics (National Senior Certificate (NSC) 2008–present) or 
  2. Pass on Higher Grade or 60% on Standard Grade for Matric Mathematics (Pre-2008) or
  3. 50% for a full-course mathematics course at first-year university degree level.
  4. Applicants with international school-leaving qualifications:
     1. 60% for Mathematics from any foreign school-leaving qualification deemed as equivalent to either the South African National Senior Certificate or the Cambridge AS-/A-levels by Universities South Africa Matriculation Board (https://mb.usaf.ac.za) [2]

• Language Requirement:  (One of the following possibilities) *
  1. 60% for Matric English Home Language or First Additional Language (National Senior Certificate (NSC) – 2008 to present) or
  2. Pass on Higher Grade Matric English First or Second Language (Pre-2008) or
  3. 50% for a full-course English at first-year university degree level.
  4. International applicants:
     1. Score of at least 7 for the IELTS test (International English Language Test System) or
     2. A pass in English Language at the GCSE/GCE/IGSCE Ordinary level (or equivalent examination) or
     3. Pass in English in a school-leaving examination equivalent to the South African National Senior Certificate or
     4. If the tertiary studies were at an English-medium institution, a letter from that institution stating that instruction and examinations were conducted in English must be provided.
• Items marked “*” (Numbers 2, 3, and 4) are Pre-requisites, so these MUST be completed before the application closing date of June 30. Results must be forwarded to the Senior Faculty Officer.
• Applicants to the GEMP are not required to write the National Benchmark Test (NBT).

Other Prerequisites:

In addition to academic requirements, applicants must also fulfil the following prerequisites:

• Obtain a valid South African ID or a valid study permit for international applicants

GEMP WITS Test and Its Importance:

As part of the application process, applicants must take the GEMP Wits test, also known as the WITS Additional Placement Test (WAPT) [6]. The test evaluates academic and cognitive skills, providing valuable insight into the applicant’s preparedness for the programme. High test scores can significantly impact an applicant’s chances of being accepted into the Wits GEMP.

• The WAPT is a selection test for the GEMP that is written only once per year.
• The test is only open to invited applicants, and applicants prepare for this test purely by self-study.
• The content covered in the WAPT is related to the courses covered by MBBCh students in their second year of study.
• The faculty recommends that all applicants start to prepare for the test once their application is submitted to enable them to perform well in the test.
• The 2024 test will be written in September 2024.
• Practical arrangements for the test (online vs. on-campus) will be communicated to the invited applicants and posted on the GEMP information webpage.
• All applicants who meet the minimum entry criteria will be invited to write the WAPT.
• Applicants who passed all three components of the WAPT in 2022 and/or 2023 do not have to rewrite the WAPT, but those who failed any component of the test must rewrite the entire test.
• Applicants who wrote the test in 2022 and/or 2023 may contact the Senior Faculty Officer to inquire about their WAPT results and whether they are exempt from rewriting the WAPT.
• If the test was last written in 2021 or earlier, it must be rewritten.
• There is an administrative fee of R200 levied to write the WAPT, and payment information will be included in the formal invitation letters sent to the invited applicants.
• The WAPT is a Pass/Fail test only and the results are NOT included in the calculated admissions score (Academic Rating).

WITS GEMP APPLICATION PROCESS

The WITS GEMP application process involves several steps, including submitting an online or in-person application, providing the required documents, and paying the application fee.

Online Application at www.wits.ac.za/undergraduate [7]

Applicants can submit their Wits GEMP application online through the official Wits University website at www.wits.ac.za/undergraduate [7]. The online application platform is user-friendly and provides step-by-step instructions for completing and submitting the application form.

For all methods of application, please ensure that you are applying for the THIRD year of study for the MBBCh degree. The degree code is MFA00, YOS3

In-person Application at the Student Enrollment Centre:

Alternatively, applicants can apply in person by visiting the Student Enrollment Centre located in Solomon Mahlangu House on Wits East Campus, Braamfontein. In-person applications provide an opportunity for applicants to ask questions and receive guidance from the university staff.

Required Documents for Application:

Applicants must submit the following documents [6] as part of their Wits GEMP application:

1. Completed application.
2. A certified copy of your degree certificate if you have already completed your studies.
3. A certified copy of your academic transcript.
4. A certified copy of your matriculation certificate or final school leaving certificate.
5. Proof of payment of the application Fee.

GEMP Wits Application Fees and Payment Methods:

Applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of R200 when submitting their Wits GEMP application. The fee can be paid via electronic funds transfer (EFT) or at a South African bank using the provided payment reference number. It is essential to keep proof of payment for submission with your application.

WITS GEMP CLOSING DATES

To ensure a successful application, it is crucial to be aware of the Wits GEMP closing dates for the 2024 academic year. Application deadlines may vary each year, so it is essential to visit the Wits University website for the most up-to-date information. Generally, the application period begins in March, with a final submission deadline by June 30th, 2023 [6]. Late applications will not be accepted, so it is vital to submit your application and required documents before the closing date.

Tips for Submitting Applications on Time:

To increase your chances of submitting a successful Wits GEMP application, follow these tips:

• Start gathering the required documents early to avoid last-minute delays
• Keep track of the application deadlines and set reminders for yourself
• Complete and submit your application well before the closing date to account for any unforeseen issues

WITS GEMP SUCCESS STORIES

The Wits GEMP programme has produced many successful graduates who have gone on to thrive in the medical field. These success stories (Booysen, John Leslie) [1] serve as inspiration and motivation for prospective applicants. GEMP graduates have pursued various specialties and found rewarding careers in South Africa and abroad. Their achievements are a testament to the high-quality education and training provided by the Wits GEMP programme.

WITS GEMP CURRICULUM AND COURSE STRUCTURE

The Wits GEMP curriculum is a continuation of the MBBCH curriculum for year 3 (The University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg) [4] and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive medical education, covering essential topics and practical skills required to become competent doctor. The programme consists of a combination of theoretical coursework, clinical training, and research components.

Course Duration and Key Subjects:

The Wits GEMP is a four-year programme, divided into two phases:

1. Phase 1 (Years 1 and 2): During this phase, students focus on foundational medical knowledge, covering subjects such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Pharmacology. Students also gain exposure to clinical environments through early clinical rotations.
2. Phase 2 (Years 3 and 4): In this phase, students engage in clinical rotations across various medical disciplines, including Internal Medicine, Surgery, paediatrics, Obstetrics and gynaecology, and Psychiatry. Students also undertake a research project during their final year.

WITS GEMP FEES AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Pursuing a medical degree can be financially challenging. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the Wits GEMP fees [5] and explore available financial assistance options.

Overview of Tuition Fees and Other Expenses:

Tuition fees for the Wits GEMP programme vary depending on the year of study and other factors. In addition to tuition, students must also budget for accommodation, textbooks, medical equipment, and other living expenses. Visit the Wits University website for the most up-to-date fee information.

Options for Financial Assistance and Scholarships

There are various financial assistance options available for students pursuing the Wits GEMP programme, including government-funded loans, private loans, and scholarships. Some scholarships are specifically designated for medical students, while others are open to all qualifying applicants. To explore available financial assistance options, visit the Wits University website and consult with the Financial Aid Office [3].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about the GEMP at Wits, along with answers and resources for further information:

1. What is the GEMP programme at Wits? The Graduate Entry Medical Programme (GEMP) at the University of Witwatersrand is a four-year medical programme for students with a prior undergraduate degree in a relevant field, allowing them to pursue a career in medicine.
2. What are the requirements for the Wits GEMP? Applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum average of 60%, complete prerequisite courses in Physics, Chemistry, biology, or Life Sciences, and have a minimum of 40 hours of healthcare-related work experience.
3. How can I apply for the Wits GEMP? You can apply online at www.wits.ac.za/undergraduate [7] or in person at the Student Enrollment Centre in Solomon Mahlangu House on Wits East Campus, Braamfontein. Remember to submit all required documents and pay the application fee.
4. What is the Wits GEMP closing date for 2024–2025 applications? The exact closing dates may vary each year, but the deadline for this year is June 30, 2023. Generally, the application period begins in April, with a final submission deadline in June, as stated earlier.
5. What is the Wits GEMP test, and why is it important? The GEMP Wits test, also known as the WITS Additional Placement Test (WAPT), is an assessment that evaluates an applicant’s academic and cognitive skills. High test scores can significantly impact an applicant’s chances of being accepted into the Wits GEMP programme.
6. What are the fees for the Wits GEMP, and are there any financial assistance options available? Tuition fees vary depending on the year of study and other factors. In addition to tuition, students must budget for accommodation, textbooks, medical equipment, and other living expenses. Financial assistance options, including government-funded loans, private loans, and scholarships, are available for eligible students.
7. What is the duration and structure of the Wits GEMP programme? The Wits GEMP programme is a four-year medical degree consisting of two phases. Phase 1 (Years 1 and 2) focuses on foundational medical knowledge, while Phase 2 (Years 3 and 4) involves clinical rotations across various medical disciplines and a research project.

CONCLUSION

The Wits GEMP application process for the 2024 academic year is a significant step for aspiring doctors seeking a world-class medical education. By understanding the requirements, application process, deadlines, and available resources, you can increase your chances of success in this competitive programme. Stay informed, plan ahead, and pursue your dream of becoming a medical professional through the prestigious Wits GEMP programme.

References: