Entry Requirements: Grades and Subjects

A typical offer for a UK medical school is AAA or A*AA at A-level. The specific subjects required, however, are where the most significant variations lie, and it's essential to check each university's specific criteria.

Some medical schools, such as Imperial College London and King's College London, require A-levels in both Chemistry and Biology. However, many other universities are more flexible. Some, like the University of Aberdeen and the University of Bristol, require Chemistry along with another science from a defined list (e.g., Biology, Physics, or Mathematics). Others, such as the University of Plymouth and the University of Southampton, specify that Biology is essential, but allow a second science to be chosen from a broader list that may include subjects like Psychology, Geography, or even Sociology.

This flexibility means you don't always have to take the stereotypical combination of Maths and Physics. If you have a genuine passion for a subject like Spanish or Geography, you may be able to continue it to A-level, as long as it aligns with the requirements of your chosen medical schools. What's most important is that you achieve the required grades. If a medical school asks for 3 As, it's often more important to get an A in a subject you love and are good at, rather than a lower grade in a subject you feel pressured to take.

This should not be assumed to be the case for all universities. Highly selective institutions like Oxford and Cambridge often prefer a more traditionally science-heavy academic background and may have stricter subject requirements.

For applicants taking the International Baccalaureate (IB), a typical offer is a total score of 38-40 points, with specific requirements for Higher Level subjects. Most will require Chemistry and/or Biology at a Higher Level.

Lower Entry Grades - BBB?

Whilst a minimum of AAA or comparable IB score is required for a majority of UK medical schools, there are an increasing number of newer medical schools offering places to students with lower predicted grades like AAB, or even ABB. So it is well worth spending a few minutes looking at alternative medical schools if you’re not quite sure you’ll get all A*s. The really important thing to know about medicine is, currently, you are guaranteed your first job as a doctor in the August you graduate. This system does not care where you earnt your medical degree. A medical degree from Oxford or Cambridge will be treated no differently to a medical degree from a lesser known, perhaps brand-new university. The chances of being allocated a popular central-London position as a first-year doctor is completely unaffected by where you studied - unlike other courses like Finance, Law, or Economics.

Widening participation is a very important aspect of Medicine today. To reflect the challenges those from poorer or more challenging socioeconomic backgrounds may face gaining those top A* grades, some medical schools now offer a Gateway to Medicine course. The idea of these courses are to allow students from certain backgrounds a place on the medical programme after they sit an additional foundation year covering the basic sciences. Still a six-year programme, the required grades for these courses are much lower, perhaps BBB. But it is important to read the eligibility criteria before applying.

Additional Mandatory Requirements

Beyond your academic subjects, there are several other mandatory requirements unique to medical school applications.

  • Admission Test: Almost all UK medical schools require applicants to sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). This test assesses your cognitive abilities and situational judgement, not your scientific knowledge. A strong UCAT score is critical for a successful application. To give yourself the best possible chance of excelling in this vital exam, RevisionMedics offers dedicated tutoring to help you prepare effectively.

  • Work Experience: You'll need to demonstrate a genuine commitment to medicine through work experience. This can be paid or voluntary and doesn't have to be just shadowing a doctor. Working in a care home or hospice can provide invaluable insights into the realities of a healthcare career. If you're struggling to secure or make the most of your work experience, RevisionMedics can provide guidance and support to help you get the most out of these opportunities.

  • Personal Statement and Interview: Your personal statement is where you showcase your motivation for medicine and reflect on what you've learned. If your application is successful, you'll be invited to an interview. Most medical schools use a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format, which assesses a range of personal qualities. To ensure your application stands out, RevisionMedics offers expert tutoring and review services for your personal statement and interview preparation, helping you articulate your strengths and experiences effectively.

  • Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): While not mandatory, an EPQ can be a great way to demonstrate your passion for a specific area of medicine or science that goes beyond your A-level curriculum. It shows independent research skills and can be a valuable talking point in your application.