Admissions Tests: UCAT
Do You Need an Admissions Test for Medicine?
Yes. Nearly all UK medical schools require applicants to take the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test). The BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) was discontinued after 2023, so UCAT is now the main national admissions test for medicine and dentistry.
What is the UCAT?
The UCAT is a computer-based exam designed to assess the cognitive abilities, attitudes, and professional behaviours considered vital for success in medicine. Unlike A-levels, it does not test scientific knowledge, but rather how you think, make decisions, and handle ethical scenarios.
- Format: Online exam, sat at Pearson VUE test centres (worldwide).
- Timing: Summer before UCAS submission (usually July–September).
- Cost (2025): £70 in the UK / £115 outside the UK.
UCAT Structure & Sections
The exam is divided into five timed subtests:
- Verbal Reasoning (21 minutes, 44 questions)
Tests your ability to critically read and interpret complex information.
Tip: Skim the question first, then scan the passage for key words. - Decision Making (31 minutes, 29 questions)
Assesses logical reasoning, recognising assumptions, and evaluating arguments.
Tip: Familiarise yourself with probability, logic puzzles, and syllogisms. - Quantitative Reasoning (25 minutes, 36 questions)
Evaluates numerical ability using data, charts, and tables.
Tip: Practise mental maths shortcuts to save time. - Abstract Reasoning (13 minutes, 55 questions)
Measures pattern recognition and problem-solving.
Tip: Train yourself to spot simple changes first (shape, colour, direction). - Situational Judgement (26 minutes, 69 questions)
Tests ethical awareness and appropriate professional behaviour.
Tip: Always prioritise patient safety, honesty, and teamwork in answers.
Scoring the UCAT
- Cognitive Sections (1–4): Scored 300–900 each.
- Total Cognitive Score: 1,200–3,600.
- Situational Judgement: Band 1 (highest) to Band 4 (lowest).
💡 Competitive applicants usually score 2,700+ overall and Band 1 or 2 in SJT.
How Do Medical Schools Use the UCAT?
- Cut-off approach: Some universities set strict score cut-offs (e.g., Newcastle, Edinburgh).
- Holistic approach: Others weigh UCAT alongside GCSEs, A-levels, and interviews (e.g., King’s College London).
- SJT weighting: A Band 4 may disqualify applicants at some universities, regardless of total score.
👉 Use our Comparative Table of Medical Schools to see which universities fit your UCAT profile.
UCAT Preparation Tips
- Start early: at least 8–10 weeks of practice is recommended.
- Use official UCAT practice materials for realistic preparation.
- Practise under strict timed conditions.
- Build exam stamina — the UCAT is mentally exhausting.
- Track your scores to monitor progress.
Alternatives: Graduate Entry Medicine (GAMSAT)
If you’re applying to graduate entry medicine, some universities may require the GAMSAT instead of UCAT. The GAMSAT tests scientific knowledge, reasoning, and essay skills at a higher level.
