High First-Year Failure Rate in Medical Colleges: A College Experience from Iraq
Abstract
The first year of medical school builds a strong foundational knowledge among students required for medical education. However, many students struggle to pass this stage on their first attempt. A considerable higher percentage of medical students fail in first-year compared to subsequent academic years. This paper seeks to investigate factors contributing to the high first-year failure rate through an Iraqi college lens. It further aims to bridge this issue by providing recommendations to minimize this burden, including modifications in entry criteria, updating curriculum, and enhancing support for students’ mental well-being.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Medical Education and Admissions
Innovations in Medical Education
Health and Well-being Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- European Journal of Medical and Health Research
- Publisher
- AMO Publisher
- Volume
- 4
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 31–33
- Publication date
- 6 April 2026
- Language
- EN