Predictors of poor academic performance among the medical students of the University of the Philippines College of Medicine

Abstract

Background: Despite the rigorous and extremely competitive selection process of medical students at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine (UPCM), a few still performed poorly in academics that resulted in delayed graduation or failure to graduate at all.

Methodology: Factors potentially associated with delayed graduation and failure to graduate among UPCM medical students were analyzed using univariate and multivariable logistic regression with their demographic and pre-admission academic profiles, namely, Pre-medical General Weighted Average Grade (PGWAG), National Medical Admission Test Scores (NMATs), interview scores, pre-med courses, the school graduated from, and admissions categories as predictors.

Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the factors that predict the likelihood of not graduating and delayed graduation among the medical students of 24 classes of the UPCM.

Results: The odds of delayed graduation and failure to graduate were increased by lower PMGWAG, NMAT score, interview score, admission through the special categories, being a non-UP graduate, and with BS Psychology as pre-med course.

Conclusion: The predictors of poor academic performance based on delayed graduation and failure to graduate were the PMGWAG, NMAT, interview scores, admissions category, pre-med course, and the school graduated from. It is recommended that the minimum admissions requirements for PMGWAG be increased particularly among the candidates in the special categories. The selection process in the special categories must put some bearing on the PMGWAGs and NMATs of their applicants.

Published online: September 21, 2021