Unlocking the UCAT: Your Gateway to Medical School

The UCAT, or University Clinical Aptitude Test, isn’t just another exam—it’s the test that stands between you and your dream of becoming a doctor. For aspiring medical professionals, it’s a rite of passage, a challenge that tests not only your knowledge, but your ability to think on your feet, stay cool under pressure, and make decisions that could one day impact lives.

But what exactly is the UCAT, and why does it carry so much weight? In this post, we’ll dive into the ins and outs of the UCAT, giving you a glimpse of what to expect, how to prepare like a pro, and—most importantly—how to ace it with confidence. Whether you’re at the beginning of your medical journey or are just trying to get a head start, this guide will help you unlock the secrets to mastering the UCAT and taking one step closer to your medical career.

Let’s get started!

What is the UCAT for 2026 Entry?

The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) is more than just a test; it’s the key that opens the door to a career in medicine or dentistry. Tailored to assess the skills that go beyond traditional knowledge, the UCAT challenges applicants to demonstrate their aptitude, problem-solving abilities, decision-making under pressure, and the professionalism essential for a successful career in healthcare.

As the ultimate admissions test for future doctors and dentists, the UCAT is an online, multiple-choice exam that can be taken either from the comfort of your own home or at designated Pearson Vue test centres, coordinated by the UCAT consortium.

If you’re aiming to study medicine or dentistry in the UK, Australia, or New Zealand for the 2026 entry, the UCAT is a crucial step in your journey—one that sets you apart from the crowd and proves you have what it takes to thrive in the demanding world of healthcare.

UCAT Registration Checklist 2025

• Create Your Online Account
   Available from Tuesday, 13th May 2025 at 09:30 BST until Friday, 19th September 2025 at 12:00 noon BST. It’s a good idea to set this up in advance, ideally by May.
• UCAT Booking Opens
   Booking starts on Tuesday, 17th June 2025 at 06:00 BST and closes on Friday, 19th September 2025 at 12:00 BST.
  
• UCAT Exam Dates
   You can sit your UCAT exam between Monday, 7th July 2025 and Friday, 26th September 2025.
  
• UCAT Fees
   The exam costs £70 for UK candidates, and £115 for international candidates.
  
• ID Requirement
   Make sure to bring a valid form of ID to your exam—either a passport or driver’s license.
  

Which Universities Accept UCAT for 2025 Entry?

If you’re aspiring to study Medicine or Dentistry in the UK, Australia, or New Zealand, the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) will likely be a key part of your journey. Many universities in these regions use the UCAT to help them assess applicants and differentiate between the vast pool of talented candidates. But which universities actually accept this critical exam for the 2025 entry?

Here’s a breakdown of universities that will consider your UCAT score as part of their admissions process for Medicine and Dentistry programs:

UK Universities Accepting UCAT (2025 Entry)

• University of Aberdeen
• University of Bristol
• University of Buckingham
• University of Dundee
• University of Edinburgh
• University of Exeter
• University of Glasgow
• Hull York Medical School
• King’s College London
• University of Leeds
• University of Leicester
• University of Liverpool
• University of Manchester
• Newcastle University
• University of Nottingham
• University of Oxford (Note: Oxford uses BMAT for Medicine, but UCAT for Dentistry)
  
• University of Plymouth
• Queen Mary University of London
• University of Sheffield
• University of Southampton
• University of St Andrews
• University College London (UCL)
• University of Warwick
  

Australian and New Zealand Universities Accepting UCAT (2025 Entry)

• University of Adelaide (Australia)
  
• University of Melbourne (Australia)
  
• University of New South Wales (UNSW) (Australia)
  
• University of Queensland (Australia)
  
• University of Sydney (Australia)
  
• University of Western Australia (Australia)
  
• Auckland University of Technology (New Zealand)
  
• University of Otago (New Zealand)

UCAT Scores Accepted by Each Universities 

High UCAT Cut-Offs (Typically Above 2800)

• ​University of Bristol: 2940 (Home), 2960 (International)
  
• ​King’s College London: Average interviewee score: 2930
  
• ​Newcastle University: Cut-off: 2850
  
• ​University of Glasgow: 2800 (International), 2500 (Rest of UK), 2450 (Scottish applicants)

Moderate UCAT Cut-Offs (Approximately 2500–2800)

• ​University of Sheffield: 2440
  
• ​Queen Mary University of London (Barts): 2620 (Home), 2950 (International)
  
• ​University of Plymouth: 2680
  
• ​University of Leicester: 2250
  
• ​University of Liverpool: 2660
  
• ​University of Manchester: 2750
  
• ​St George’s, University of London: 2630
  
• ​University of Edinburgh: 2470
  
• ​University of Warwick: 2580

Lower UCAT Cut-Offs or No Fixed Threshold

• ​University of Dundee: No fixed cut-off; lowest interviewed score: 1900
  
• ​University of East Anglia: No fixed cut-off; lowest interviewed score: 1980
  
• ​University of Keele: 2280
  
• ​University of Sunderland: Top 8 deciles; SJT Band 3 or above required
  
• ​University of Cardiff: UCAT used in borderline cases; no fixed cut-off
  
• ​University of Nottingham: No fixed cut-off; uses a points-based system
  
• ​University of Hull York Medical School: No fixed cut-off; average interviewed score: 2570​

New UCAT Adopters (2025 Entry)

• ​University of Oxford: Transitioning from BMAT to UCAT; selection criteria under review
• ​University College London (UCL): Transitioning from BMAT to UCAT; selection criteria under review
• ​Imperial College London: Transitioning from BMAT to UCAT; selection criteria under review
• ​Lancaster University: Transitioning from BMAT to UCAT; selection criteria under review

Important Notes

• SJT Band 4: Many universities automatically reject applicants with a Situational Judgement Test (SJT) Band 4 score.
• Decile Rankings: Some institutions require applicants to be within a certain UCAT decile.
• Holistic Review: Several universities consider UCAT scores alongside academic achievements and other factors.

In the End, It’s All About Strategy

The UCAT isn’t just a test of knowledge—it’s a test of how well you can navigate a maze of tricky questions under time pressure. Think of it like a game, where strategy and preparation are your best friends. With the right mindset, solid practice, and a bit of patience, you can turn that anxiety into excitement. So, whether you’re tackling abstract reasoning or racing against the clock on the decision-making section, remember: the path to success lies in your ability to stay focused, stay sharp, and keep practicing.

Good luck, and may your UCAT journey be smooth, strategic, and full of personal growth. Your future in medicine is waiting, one question at a time!