UCAS Medicine

How Competitive Is Applying To Medicine?

Lots of people apply to study Medicine every year — but only a small number are successful. It’s very competitive to get into Medical School.

For 2021 entry Medicine, there were 28,690 applicants. This was a 21% increase from the previous year. For 2022 entry, there were 29,710 applicants, which was a 3.5% increase from the previous year. For 2023 entry, there were 26,820 applicants – a slight decline from the record-high few previous years. The trend has continued with 24,150 applicants for the 2024 entry, although the number has remained steadily high.

Learn more about what the rising number of Medicine applicants means for you in this blog.

How Many Medical Schools Can I Apply To?

You can choose up to four Medical Schools on your UCAS form. You also have a fifth UCAS choice which you can fill with a different course and use as a back-up option.

Some universities allow you to write a different Personal Statement for the fifth choice, but many won’t. So it’s normal to use it for something science-related.

Medicine UCAS Application Deadline

For 2025 entry, UCAS application deadline is 15 October 2024 at 18:00 (UK time). It’s a deadline for any course at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, or for most courses in medicine, veterinary medicine/science, and dentistry.

How Do I Apply?

Most of you will have help navigating the UCAS form from your schools. They will often walk you through the process and make you aware of key deadlines.

But we recommend that you also take personal responsibility and make sure you are as clued-up as possible about your application.

The closing date for applications to Medical School is usually earlier than for other courses, so it is important that you check the UCAS website for deadlines. For 2025 entry, the deadline is 15 October 2024 at 18:00 (UK time).

The final submission will be made online and will incur a small administration fee, which in 2024 is £22.50 for applying to a single course and £27 for more than one course.

Is the Process Different for International Candidates?

Applying to UCAS for Medicine as an international candidate is in many ways different when compared to UK applicants. Although you will still have to meet the same 15 October 2024 deadline, there are some important points to consider:

1. Eligibility and qualifications: International applicants must ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria set by UCAS and the individual medical schools. This includes having the required academic qualifications, such as specific subjects and grades, as well as meeting English language proficiency requirements. It’s essential to thoroughly research the entry requirements of each medical school to determine if you meet the criteria.
2. Application process: International applicants typically apply through UCAS in the same way as UK applicants. However, there may be additional steps or requirements depending on your country of origin. For example, you may need to submit additional documentation, such as transcripts or certificates, and have them translated into English if necessary. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions provided by UCAS and the medical schools to ensure a complete and accurate application.
3. English language proficiency: International applicants whose first language is not English are typically required to demonstrate their English language proficiency. This is usually done through standardized tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Each medical school sets its own minimum English language requirements, so it’s important to check the specific requirements of each institution.
4. Visa requirements: International applicants will need to consider visa requirements and ensure they have the necessary documentation to study in the UK. It’s important to research the visa application process and any specific requirements set by the UK government. The medical school or university’s international office can provide guidance and support regarding visa-related matters.

You can read more on applying on the UCAS as an international student here.

Can I Apply to Medicine if I Am Disabled?

Yes, as long as you are going to be fit to practice Medicine by the end of the course. UK universities are committed to promoting inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all students, including those with disabilities.

UK universities are legally required to provide equal opportunities and reasonable adjustments for disabled students under the Equality Act 2010. This means that universities must not discriminate against applicants based on their disability and must make reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to education.

It is not mandatory to disclose your disability during the application process. However, if you require specific accommodations or support, it is generally recommended to disclose your disability to the university. This allows them to assess your needs and make appropriate arrangements to support you throughout your studies.

It’s worth exploring the various funding options available, such as Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs) or specific scholarships for disabled students, to help cover any additional costs related to your disability. You can read more on that here.