When is the best time to begin preparation for HPAT?

When to begin HPAT preparation is a difficult question and one that is very individual. Many students prefer to get started early given that:

a) they realise they are going to be exceptionally busy in their final year and

b) they realise how important the HPAT is (i.e. equal to or even more important than final exams)

A small proportion of our students are in year 5 or below. Getting started early means reducing the stress/workload in year 6 when students will have less time for HPAT study. The HPAT can change from year to year but the changes are not very significant.

One option is to purchase a multiyear package from now until the HPAT. The advantage is that there it locks in current prices and there is no more to pay. Please see: [https://www.medentry-hpat.ie/hpat-headstart

](https://www.medentry-hpat.ie/hpat-headstart)

On the flipside, of course, cost is an issue. We offer students access to online materials until the next HPAT date (so, for example, if you purchased a package now, you would get access until the HPAT test date in late February). After that, to continue to access materials, you would need to re-enrol. MedEntry provides students who have purchased a MedEntry package within the last 12 months a Last Year's Student Discount. This is automatically applied to your HPAT preparation package when added to cart. Please see: https://www.medentry-hpat.ie/pricing#hpat-packages

The Premium Package (which includes the workshop run by Dr Ann) is important to do at some stage as the workshop offers an excellent run-down of techniques, is motivational and provides mini mocks, analysis and discussion.

Whatever you decide to do, we look forward to helping you succeed in the HPAT.

Updated on: 10/10/2025