Test-prep help valuable for would-be doctors

As a neuroscience major at the University of Illinois Chicago, I’ve always known that my path to becoming a doctor would be challenging. But I didn’t consider the cost of preparing for the MCAT — which can be more than $3,000.

The exam is one of the most important factors for medical school admissions decisions and scoring competitively can unlock merit-based aide.

That’s why I was thrilled when Illinois became the first state to fund free, comprehensive test prep for career exams and professional licensure for all students attending its public universities. For aspiring doctors, lawyers, engineers and other professionals, the Prepare for Illinois’ Future program removes a financial hurdle that too often determines who gets to pursue these careers and who doesn’t.

Before this program, my MCAT prep options were limited — a familiar story for many. Students without the financial means to purchase test prep courses often piece together study materials, while the course I accessed through the program was structured and professional.

Beyond the personal benefit, this program will help strengthen Illinois, which faces projected shortages of more than 14,000 nurses and 6,000 doctors by 2030. By removing financial barriers to test prep, Illinois is helping more students enter essential professions and contribute to local economies across the state.

As the student body president at UIC, I’ve heard countless stories from peers that mirror my own. There’s a tremendous sense of appreciation for the policymakers who brought universal test prep to Illinois and we encourage the state to safeguard it’s future funding so that every student, regardless of financial background, has an equal opportunity to succeed.

After all, no student should be priced out of their own future.

Haider “Asa” Asad

Hanover Park