The Predictive Value of Admission Qualifications on the Academic Performance of First-Year Medical Students in Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) College of Medicine

Well-designed admission criteria can predict the likelihood of students succeeding in the medical program. This study aims to evaluate the predictive capability of the admission qualifications used in the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) College of Medicine concerning the academic performance of first-year medical students. Data from 1,203 students were analyzed, revealing that premedical general weighted average (GWA) and National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) scores significantly correlate with academic performance in the first year, whereas Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores do not. The interview, when combined with GWA and NMAT scores, can also predict the students’ final GWA at the end of their first year. Premedical school and courses are also potential predictors of academic success. This study holds significant implications in refining the admission criteria in this university that would ensure academic success of the students.