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Applying for Medical School
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Whether you’ve always dreamed of a career in medicine, or you’re just starting to think about your future, this is your complete guide to applying for medical school in the UK.
The first part of the step-by-step guide is all about getting ready to apply, from attending taster sessions and open days to preparing for admissions tests. The second part covers the actual application process including UCAS personal statements, interviews, and responding to offers. We recommend making your way through both parts in order, but feel free to jump between different sections if you prefer.
We've also created a Medical School Jargon Buster to help explain any unfamiliar terms.
Read the step-by-step guide:
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What do medical schools look for?
Medical schools in the UK receive lots of applications for a limited number of places. You'll need to show them that you understand the reality of being a doctor and explain why you think you'd be a good fit. Here are a few topics to get you started:
Your motivation for studying medicine
Why do you want to be a doctor? Think carefully about what motivates you and make sure you can explain what appeals to you about medicine. Admissions tutors know that a passionate, committed student is far less likely to drop out halfway through the course.
Top tip: there isn't necessarily a 'correct' answer to this question. It's more about reflecting on your goals and explaining your motivations.
The qualities that make a good medic
Medical schools look for key traits like resilience, empathy, teamwork, and good communication. Seek out work experience that helps you develop these qualities, so you can demonstrate them in your personal statement and interviews.
Top tip: refer to this list of skills and attributes on the Medical Schools Council website.
Understanding the challenges
Medicine is an extremely rewarding profession, but it can be very demanding too. Medical schools want to know that you understand the challenging aspects of being a doctor, not just the benefits.
Top tip: if you're not sure where to start, look for recent news stories involving doctors. What do they say about their careers?
Commitment
It takes at least five years to complete a medical degree - sometimes seven depending on your course. Then you'll spend another two years in foundation training, followed by specialty training that could last between three and eight years. Medical schools want to know you understand this and are committed to the profession, so you will finish the course and not change your mind.
Top tip: find out more about the 65 different medical specialties and 30 sub-specialties in the NHS.
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