How to choose where to apply for medicine

By now, most applicants are choosing where they want to apply for medicine.

However, if you are still unsure, these are some tips that may help you.

Look at the entry requirements

The vast majority of medical schools have academic requirements that you

must meet. For example, a common ask from universities, is that you must

achieve at least AAA at A-Level. Sometimes, you may be able to receive a lower

offer due to contextual factors, or from the completion of an EPQ.

Another vital aspect of entry requirements, is your UCAT score. Places like Newcastle

and Bristol only look at UCAT when selecting candidates to interview. If you

have low GCSEs but a high UCAT, places like this are good to look into.

However, some places such as Cardiff place more emphasis on GCSEs, so if you

scored well at GCSE, this may be for you. More information about this can be

found in our other blogs.

Teaching style

Some universities have a more traditional approach to teaching, such as Oxford

and Cambridge. This involves the first few years being mainly theory, and not

starting clinical placements until much later. However, some universities like

Newcastle have a more integrated approach, starting clinical placements early

on, as well as involving case-based learning.

Location of the university

Think about where you would want to live as a student. Do you prefer being in

the big cities, or would you rather live somewhere a bit more rural? Going to

open days can often help you to decide. Also, think about how far the

university is away from your hometown. If you plan on visiting home

frequently, then it may be a good idea to stay more local.

General university life

Look online and see what life is like at these universities. This can be done

through social media, especially platforms like TikTok. See if the

accommodation and environment is something that would suit you. Also look

at the social life. On the university websites, you can see what societies they

offer. Many places have societies specific to medicine. Even as a medical

student, it is important to have a good work life balance, and joining societies

can help to achieve that.