What is the HPAT and when do students sit the exam?

The HPAT (Health Professions Admission Test) is an admissions test used by Irish Medical Schools for getting into medicine.

The HPAT online multiple choice test measures a candidate’s logical reasoning and problem solving skills as well as non-verbal reasoning and the ability to understand the thoughts, behaviour and/or intentions of people.  The test results will complement the Leaving Certificate Examination assessment for selecting applicants for admission to an undergraduate Medical School programme.

The HPAT is a two and a half hour test (except for University of Limerick applicants) - administered by ACER in late Feb.  University of Limerick applicants sit an additional 4th section as part of their HPAT. This is a 1 hour written essay component consisting of two questions. 

International/non-EU students should contact the universities to which they intend to apply directly (or check their websites for information) as they may be exempt from taking HPAT–Ireland.

Updated on: 13/10/2025