Limitations of current measures used for selection of students to medical schools in Sri Lanka

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Policy regarding selection of students for admission to medical school in Sri Lanka is considered unsatisfactory by many. This study was carried out across all six medical schools in the country, to assess the extent to which selected factors at point of entry predict success in medical School. METHODS: The study sample consisted of all students selected by the University Grants Commission to study medicine in two consecutive entry cohorts. The 'A' level aggregate marks of these students, the district of entry, gender and candidate type (school/private) we're identified as entry point variables. Success in medical school was measured in four ways: the ability to pass the first Summative examination and the final examination at the first attempt, and the ability to obtain a class in either. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess the extent to which these entry point factors Could predict variability in outcome measures. RESULTS: The mean 'A' level aggregate among the 1740 students in the study sample was 282 (range: 212-356). The male: female ratios were 1.5 and 1.3 respectively in the two cohorts. 22% of students were private candidates, who were probably attempting the 'A' levels for the third time. Having a high A'level aggregate, being female, and being a school candidate were all independent predictors of success in all outcome measures. However, the aggregate score alone and candidate type each accounted for only 1-7% of the variation in performance in medical school. CONCLUSION: The only measure of academic performance used for selection of medical students is a weak predictor of success in our medical schools.