New Aptitude Test for Medical Professionals in Cameroon

aptitude test cameroon

The medical field is evolving fast. The government is pushing new reforms to improve the quality of healthcare workers, aligning with both local and international standards.

One of the biggest moves is the MINSANTE Special Aptitude Test.

Whether you’re a nurse, lab technician, pharmacist, midwife, or any other medical worker, this test is now mandatory if you want to get licensed and officially recognized.

The Ministry of Public Health has just released the 2025 official dates and requirements, and they’re stricter than ever.

In this post, i’ll break down what the test is, who it’s for, why it matters, and how to prepare.

What Is the MINSANTE Aptitude Test?

The MINSANTE Aptitude Test is a national qualifying exam created by Cameroon’s Ministry of Public Health.

It’s required for anyone who holds a diploma in a healthcare-related field and wants to legally work as a medical professional in the country.

You’re expected to take this test if you hold any of the following:

  • BTS (Brevet de Technicien Supérieur)

  • HND (Higher National Diploma)

  • HPD (Higher Professional Diploma)

  • DSEP (Diplôme Supérieur d’Études Professionnelles)

  • Or a Bachelor’s degree (Licence) from the Ministry of Higher Education or a state-recognized university.

The exam isn’t just about textbook knowledge.

It evaluates your real-world medical thinking; how you solve problems, handle emergencies, and make decisions under pressure.

According to the Ministry’s latest announcement, the 2025 exam includes both written and practical sections, and only those who pass the written part will proceed to the practical.

Why This Test Matters

This is not just another hoop to jump through.

It’s quality control for the entire health system.

Passing the MINSANTE Aptitude Test proves you are qualified, capable, and ready for the realities of working in healthcare.

Failing to take (or pass) this test means:

  • You won’t get your professional license

  • You can’t legally work in hospitals or clinics in Cameroon

  • You won’t qualify for international opportunities

It’s that serious.

This reform is part of the government’s effort to raise standards, protect patients, and build a system where every healthcare worker is properly vetted.

So if you’re serious about your career, this test is non-negotiable.

2025 Exam Dates to Know

Here are the updated dates for the 2025 MINSANTE Special Aptitude Test:

  • Application Deadline: 21st July 2025

  • Written Exam: 09th August 2025

  • Practical Exam: 20th–23rd August 2025 (for those who pass the written exam)

Mark these down and take them seriously.

Submitting late or missing a date could cost you an entire year.

How the Test Is Structured

Written Exams – 09th August 2025

TIMESUBJECTDURATIONPASS MARKELIMINATION SCORE
08:00 – 11:00Professional Exam 13 hrs35%05/20
11:30 – 13:30General Culture (Law, Ethics, Professional Conduct)2 hrs30%05/20
14:30 – 17:30Professional Exam 23 hrs35%05/20

Practical Exams – 20th to 23rd August 2025

These will take place at testing sites identified by Regional Delegates of Public Health.

Only candidates who succeed in the written test can sit for the practical.

Who Needs to Take This Test?

This test is mandatory for a wide range of healthcare roles, including:

  • Nurses

  • Midwives

  • Lab Technicians

  • Pharmacists

  • Dental Assistants

  • Radiology Technicians

  • And more…

In short, if you studied anything medical and want to work legally, this test applies to you.

Registration Requirements (2025)

Here’s what you need to submit:

  1. Registration Form – Stamped at 1,500 FCFA. Download from https://examen-national-special-minsante.cm

  2. Certified Birth Certificate – Dated less than 3 months

  3. Payment Receipt – 20,000 FCFA issued by your Regional Delegation

  4. Certified Diploma Copy – From the Ministry of Higher Education or a recognized state university

  5. Original Diploma Presentation Certificate – Issued by a competent authority

  6. Certified Academic Transcripts – Full training curriculum

  7. Criminal Record Extract – Bulletin No. 3, not older than 3 months

  8. Medical Certificate – From a public health facility, sealed in an envelope

  9. Two Passport Photos – 4×4, color, white background

  10. Stamped A4 Envelope – 500 FCFA, with your full address

Important: Incomplete or incorrectly filled files will be rejected without exception. Documents signed at police stations or by unauthorized authorities are not accepted.

How to Prepare (And Actually Pass)

Let’s be honest: this test is tough. But it’s passable if you prepare smart.

Here’s how to do it right:

  • Study the structure of both written and practical exams.

  • Practice real clinical scenarios, not just definitions.

  • Read official communiques and documents from MINSANTE.

  • Work with teachers, mentors, or colleagues who’ve passed it.

  • Avoid last-minute stress—create a study schedule now.

This is not a test you can wing. Treat it like the career-defining opportunity that it is.

Also Read: 16 profitable ways to make money online in Cameroon

What Happens If You Fail?

Not everyone makes it the first time.

If you don’t pass, the Ministry will offer you additional training, and you’ll take a makeup certification exam later.

This process isn’t meant to punish you. It’s built to strengthen your skills before you enter a field where lives are at stake.

Failing once doesn’t mean failure forever.

Just don’t make the mistake of taking it lightly.

Wrapping Up

The MINSANTE Aptitude Test is here to stay.

If you want to move forward in your medical career whether in Cameroon or abroad, this is your gate.

You’ve already invested years in your studies.

Don’t let poor planning or weak preparation block your future.

Know the dates. Get your documents ready. Study smart. Take it seriously.

This is your chance to join a new generation of qualified, trusted, and respected healthcare professionals in Cameroon.

Own it.

Share this with any friends, classmates, or colleagues who need to see it.

And if you have questions about registration or prep tips, drop them in the comments or contact your nearest Regional Delegation.