There are approximately 10 medical schools in the UK offering undergraduate medicine degrees (MBBS or equivalent):
England:
- Anglia Ruskin University School of Medicine
- Aston University Medical School
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS)
- University of Bristol Medical School
- University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine
- Edge Hill University Medical School
- University of Exeter Medical School
- Hull York Medical School (HYMS)
- Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine
- Keele University School of Medicine
Contents
UK Medicine Schools Typical Entry Requirements
To study medicine in the UK, expect highly competitive entry. Key requirements generally include:
A-Levels
AAA (often Chemistry and Biology) or equivalent (IB, Scottish Highers).
Admissions Tests
UCAT (most schools) or BMAT (e.g., Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial).
Strong Personal Statement
Demonstrating motivation and relevant experience.
Interviews
MMI or Panel interviews to assess suitability.
Always check the specific entry criteria for each medical school directly.
Read More: Study in the UK
How to Study Medicine Without A-Levels
Achieving your medical aspirations in the UK without A-Levels is possible through 3 strategic alternative routes:
College Medicine Foundation Programs (Direct Entry)
Some colleges partner with specific universities to offer Medicine Foundation Programmes that guarantee progression to a medical degree (MBBS) upon achieving pre-defined high grades (often 70-80% or higher). These intensive one-year courses bridge the gap for students lacking standard A-Levels, providing focused science preparation and a direct, albeit competitive, route to a partner university’s medical program. Research colleges with such direct-entry agreements to streamline your path.
University Foundation Programs (e.g., University of Buckingham)
Universities like Buckingham offer their own Foundation Programmes specifically designed for medicine. These university-led programs provide a strong academic grounding and acclimatization to the university environment. Successful completion enhances your application for their MBBS program, although progression may be competitive and not always guaranteed direct entry.
Bachelor’s Degree Route (e.g., Biomedical Sciences)
Another option involves first completing a Bachelor’s degree in a related field like Biomedical Sciences. A strong performance (typically a 2:1 or First Class Honours) in such a degree can then make you eligible to apply for Graduate Entry Medicine programs in the UK. While longer, this route broadens your academic base and offers an alternative entry point, although Graduate Entry Medicine itself remains highly competitive and may still expect a robust science background.
UK Medical School Tuition Fees
UK Students
Maximum £9,250 per year (government regulated).
International Students
£28,000 – £70,000+ per year (varies significantly by university). London and Oxbridge are typically most expensive.
Note: Fees are approximate and for tuition only. Living costs are additional. Verify current fees on university websites.
Example Fees (2024-2025 – Verify on University Websites):
University College London (UCL):
- UK: £9,250/year
- International: £44,200/year
University of Edinburgh:
- International: £38,800/year (Year 1 & 2, may increase later – confirm on website)
Related Reading: Working in the UK as a Medical Doctor
Choosing Your Medical School: Key Factors
Briefly consider these points when selecting where to apply:
Location
City vs. campus, personal preference.
Teaching Style
Traditional, PBL, integrated – match your learning style.
Course Structure
5-year, 6-year, graduate entry.
Entry Requirements
Match your academic profile and test scores.
Specific Interests
Some schools specialize (research, global health, etc.).
Your Next Steps
Explore University Websites
Use the list above to directly access medical school websites.
Check Entry Requirements
Carefully review specific criteria for each program.
Confirm Fees
Verify the latest tuition fees for your fee status.
Consider Open Days
Attend virtual or in-person events to learn more.
FAQs
Direct entry without A-Levels (or equivalents) is very difficult. However, international students can choose medicine foundation programs at universities like Buckingham.
Consider Medicine Foundation Programmes at colleges or Graduate Entry Medicine (with a prior degree, may still need a science background). You can study a year of a biomedical science degree and then apply to medical degrees in the UK.
Equivalent qualifications to A-Levels, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), UCAT/BMAT, proof of funds, visa.
Apply to a university’s Foundation Programme, meet progression requirements after one year to join the MBBS program at that university. You should search for “Medicine Foundation Degree in the UK”.
UCAT/BMAT exam, UCAS application, personal statement, references, interviews, visa application.
Yes, but scholarships are competitive. Check university websites and external scholarship bodies.
No, not for international students. UK students have subsidized fees, but still pay.
