UCAT 2025 Preliminary Results: How They Compare to 2024 & What It Means for 2026 Entry
Overview of UCAT 2025 Preliminary Results
The UCAT 2025 preliminary results (based on tests taken up to 14 September 2025) offer an initial glimpse at how this year’s candidates performed. Remember, these are interim figures – about 21,882 candidates’ results – and the final statistics may vary once all approximately 43,000 candidates have sat the exam.
Historically, interim scores tend to be slightly higher than final results (for example, in 2024, the preliminary average was 1913 compared to a final average of 1870, excluding Abstract Reasoning). Nonetheless, the preliminary data provides a useful rough guide for 2025 candidates.
Mean UCAT 2025 Score:
The preliminary mean total score in 2025 is 1939 (out of 2700). This total sums up three cognitive subtests – Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, and Quantitative Reasoning – each scored between 300 and 900. (Note: Abstract Reasoning was removed from the UCAT in 2025, so the total score is now out of 2700 instead of 3600.)
The mean subtest scores were approximately 614 in Verbal Reasoning, 642 in Decision Making, and 683 in Quantitative Reasoning. This indicates that, on average, candidates scored around 646 per section, which is notably strong. In fact, many students found Quantitative Reasoning to be the highest-scoring section overall, as reflected by the 683 mean in QR.
UCAT 2025 Score Distribution (Deciles):
Examining the score distribution, the UCAT 2025 results appear to be higher overall compared to last year. The median candidate (50th percentile) scored around 1940. High achievers performed particularly well – a score of 2270 was approximately at the 90th percentile (top 10%) in this interim data.
On the lower end, 1620 was roughly at the 10th percentile (bottom 10%). Put another way, about 25% of candidates scored above 2150, and 25% scored below 1730 according to the preliminary decile breakdown.
These decile rankings help you understand where your score stands relative to others. For instance, a score of 2000 is around the 60th percentile (above average), while a score of 2270 would place you among the top 10% of test-takers. It’s important to remember that mean scores can vary between testing years, and direct comparisons aren’t always straightforward, which is why focusing on percentile (decile) ranking remains most useful.
UCAT 2025 Situational Judgement Test (SJT) Results:
One striking aspect of the 2025 preliminary data is the distribution of the SJT band. Twenty-five per cent of candidates achieved Band 1 (the highest band) – that’s nearly double the proportion from 2024. Meanwhile, 40% scored Band 2, 27% in Band 3, and only 8% in Band 4. By contrast, in 2024, only about 13% of candidates were in Band 1, and 13% were in Band 4. This suggests the Situational Judgement section might have been more manageable this year, or perhaps stronger candidates tended to take the test earlier.
If this trend holds, more applicants will have higher SJT bands in 2025, which could be significant since some universities use SJT results in their selection process (for example, certain medical schools give extra credit for Band 1 or exclude applicants with Band 4). We will discuss the implications of this shortly. Again, these figures are preliminary and may change once all candidates have completed the exam, but they provide a useful early indication.
Comparison: UCAT 2025 vs 2024 Results
Many students are eager to see how the 2025 scores compare to 2024, especially since the exam format has changed. The removal of Abstract Reasoning in 2025 means we must be cautious with comparisons – we are primarily comparing three-section totals in 2025 with four-section totals in 2024. For a fair comparison, it is helpful to exclude Abstract Reasoning from the 2024 data. The UCAT Consortium has provided adjusted statistics illustrating how previous years would look without AR.
Mean Score: In 2024, the official final mean (including all four subtests) was 2523 out of 3600, which equates to an average of about 631 per section. Excluding Abstract Reasoning, the comparable mean for 2024 would be approximately 1870 (based on the sum of VR, DM, and QR). In comparison, the preliminary mean for 2025 of 1939 is higher. Put simply, the average candidate in 2025 seems to have scored about 69 points more (on a 2700 scale) than the average 2024 candidate did on the similar three sections.
This represents a noticeable increase. It’s possible that the exam content or cohort preparation contributed to slightly better performance, but keep in mind that the final 2025 mean may decrease once all testing is completed (as more candidates, possibly with a broader range of ability, take the test). Nonetheless, early indications suggest that 2025 could turn out to be a higher-scoring year than 2024.
Decile Thresholds: A similar pattern appears across the score distribution. All decile thresholds in 2025’s interim data are higher than those in the 2024 finals. For example, the median (5th decile) in 2024 (without AR) was about 1860, whereas the median in 2025 is around 1940—roughly an 80-point increase. The top 10% cutoff (9th decile) was approximately 2170 in 2024’s final data (3-section equivalent), compared to 2270 in 2025’s interim stats, a rise of about 100 points. Even the 10th percentile increased from approximately 1580 in 2024 to 1620 in 2025.
These differences suggest that more candidates are scoring higher in 2025 compared to last year. However, caution is necessary: when the remaining test-takers (roughly half the cohort) sit the exam, these thresholds could shift slightly downward. Last year, we observed the preliminary deciles falling somewhat by the final report. For example, 2024’s interim top decile was above 2170 and settled at that figure by the end. We might anticipate a similar adjustment this year. Nevertheless, the general trend indicates that 2025 scores are on course to be as high as, if not higher than, those of 2024 in percentile terms.
Why the Increase? It’s hard to determine precisely why scores are higher this year, but a few factors might be involved. The removal of Abstract Reasoning (AR) could have allowed students to focus their preparation on three cognitive areas instead of four. AR traditionally had a relatively high average score (653 in 2024), but it was a unique section that some students found challenging. With AR gone, the UCAT might feel somewhat less intimidating, possibly reducing fatigue and boosting performance in the remaining sections.
Additionally, statistical equating is used each year to ensure fairness; however, slight differences in question difficulty can still influence scores. The 2025 question bank may have been somewhat more accessible, or the cohort of test-takers this year might have been, on average, better prepared.
It’s also worth noting that more candidates will be sitting the UCAT in 2025—the consortium expects over 42,000 candidates, up from approximately 38,000 in 2024. A larger pool could include more high achievers at the top end (as well as more at the lower end), potentially widening the score distribution. We will know for sure when the final data is published in early October 2025. For now, if you sat the UCAT in 2025, you can be proud that you probably needed a higher raw score to reach the same percentile as last year’s applicants—a testament to the increased competition this year.
SJT Banding Changes: As mentioned, 2025’s interim SJT results show a higher proportion of top-band performances. In 2024, only 13% of candidates achieved Band 1, whereas 25% have attained Band 1 so far in 2025. It’s unusual to see such a significant shift year-on-year (for reference, Band 1 rates in previous years were often around 20% or less).
This could suggest that the SJT questions this year were generally easier or that candidates improved their test-taking strategies for ethics and judgment scenarios. If you scored well in the SJT (Band 1 or 2) in 2025, you are in a favourable position compared to many past applicants. However, even if your SJT band isn’t as strong, remember that not all universities weigh the SJT heavily – some may only use it as a tiebreaker or consider it modestly during interviews. Always check each university’s policy (we’ll touch on this next).
In summary, the UCAT 2025 preliminary results show an upward trend in candidate performance compared to 2024. Mean scores and decile cut-offs are slightly higher, and a significantly larger number of applicants achieved top SJT bands. The UCAT Consortium notes that scores can vary from year to year, and direct comparisons have limitations. However, the percentile rankings (deciles) provide a clear picture: you likely needed a slightly higher score this year to reach the same percentile as last year. For 2026 entry candidates, what do these figures actually mean for your application? In the next section, we’ll discuss how to interpret your UCAT result and use it strategically when choosing medical or dental schools.
Implications for 2026 Entry Applicants
What do the 2025 results mean for students applying in 2025/26 (for entry in 2026)? In short, they offer valuable context for assessing your competitiveness and help you decide where to apply. Every UK medical and dental school uses UCAT scores differently in their admissions process, so understanding your percentile ranking is essential. Now that you have your UCAT score and these initial statistics, you should use this information strategically when choosing universities on your UCAS application.
Here are the key takeaways and advice for 2026 entry candidates:
Focus on Percentiles, Not Just Raw Scores:
Because the exam format has changed, a total score of, say, 2400 now means something different than it did in 2024. Admissions tutors are aware of this and will consider how you performed relative to others. The UCAT Consortium has assured that, despite the lower total scores (out of 2700), a given percentile in 2025 corresponds to the same standing as in previous years – being in the top 10% this year is just as impressive as being in the top 10% last year. So, know your decile or percentile. For example, if you scored 2100, recognise that this is around the 8th decile (approximately top 20% or better) based on interim data, which is quite strong. If you scored 1800, that’s around the 3rd–4th decile (perhaps slightly below median). Understanding this context will help you target schools appropriately.
Universities Have Different UCAT Policies:
Research how each of your target universities uses the UCAT. Some medical schools set a strict UCAT cutoff score each year – often around a specific percentile – below which they won’t consider applicants. Others rank applicants by UCAT score to shortlist for interviews, either using the score alone or alongside academics as a significant component. A few medical schools put less emphasis on UCAT, using it as one factor among many or only excluding extremely low scores, focusing more on personal statements or interviews. Importantly, some universities also consider the SJT band; for instance, many medical schools will not accept applicants with a Band 4 at all, and a few give extra points for a Band 1. Make sure you understand these nuances.
✅ To assist you, we’ve compiled detailed guides on how different schools use UCAT – see 📊 UCAT Cut-Off Scores – Medical Schools (2026 Entry) (how each UK medical school uses UCAT scores for interviews) and 🦷 UCAT Cut-Off Scores – Dental Schools (2026 Entry) (how dental schools apply UCAT scores). These blog posts break down each university’s admissions approach so you can align your choices with your UCAT performance.
If You Have a High UCAT Score:
Congratulations – a strong UCAT can open doors to many programmes! A “high” UCAT score for 2025 would place you in the top deciles. For example, anything around 2100+ (roughly seventh-eighth decile or above) would generally be considered very good, and 2200+ (top 10% or better) is excellent. With such scores, you may be competitive for universities known to set high cutoffs or heavily weight UCAT in their selection process. You should still apply thoughtfully – even high UCAT scorers need good academics and interviews – but you have the luxury of targeting schools that prioritise UCAT. Some historically UCAT-heavy medical schools (like Newcastle, Sheffield, Glasgow, and others) might be within reach if your score is in this range.
✅ Check out our blog 📈 Best Medical Schools for High UCAT (2026 Entry) for ideas on how to maximise a high UCAT score and which universities might be advantageous to target. Remember, a high UCAT is an asset – use it to differentiate yourself in the competitive selection process.
If Your UCAT Score is Average or Slightly Below Average:
An average UCAT score in 2025 is around the mid-1900s total (roughly the 50th percentile) – between 1800 and 2000. Many candidates will fall within this range. The good news is that you still have plenty of options. While you may want to avoid the few universities with very high cut-offs, several medical schools adopt a more holistic approach or have moderate UCAT requirements.
Some universities weigh academics and personal statements more heavily, or consider UCAT only within a points system rather than an absolute cutoff. If your score is around the middle, aim for universities where your UCAT is at or above their recent interview threshold.
✅ Our guide on 📊 UCAT Cut-Off Scores – Medical Schools (2026 Entry) can help identify those: for instance, if a university’s typical cutoff was around the 30th–50th percentile, a midrange score might suffice. Additionally, consider applying to at least one or two options that historically accept a wide range of UCAT scores (schools that do not rely solely on UCAT). Be realistic but optimistic – a mid-range UCAT score, combined with strong A-levels, a compelling personal statement, and good interview skills, can definitely secure you a place. The key is understanding where your score will be competitive.
If Your UCAT Score is Low:
First, take a breath – a lower UCAT score does not end your dream of becoming a doctor or dentist. “Low” might mean scoring in the 4th decile or below (under approximately 1800 this year). While a low score limits some options, particularly at the most UCAT-heavy schools, there are still pathways to pursue. Many universities do not exclude applicants solely based on their UCAT score if other parts of the application are strong, and some have no significant UCAT cut-off at all, instead focusing on different criteria.
It’s crucial to apply strategically: look for medical schools that have historically accepted lower UCAT scores or place more emphasis on factors like your personal statement, references, or contextual data. For example, schools like Keele and Sunderland use a roles & responsibilities form and have previously been open to lower UCAT scores if minimum thresholds are met. Some Scottish schools also balance UCAT with academic achievement.
✅ We’ve compiled advice specifically for this scenario – see 📉 Where to Apply to Medicine with a Low UCAT for a list of UK medical schools that are more flexible with lower scores. Similarly, if you’re aiming for dentistry, check 🪥 Where to Apply to Dentistry with a Low UCAT for dental schools that do not heavily depend on UCAT. These resources will help you identify universities where your application can still stand out. Another option if you’re committed to studying medicine or dentistry but wish to avoid rejection is to consider a backup plan, such as a related degree with the intention of progressing to graduate-entry medicine, or taking a gap year to retake UCAT – but only if your university options appear very limited. Many applicants for 2026 entry with modest UCAT scores will still receive offers if they apply wisely. Therefore, ensure you research thoroughly and utilise the available data to your advantage.
Leverage Your SJT Band:
Don’t forget about your Situational Judgement Test band, as it can be an additional factor. If you got Band 1, that’s a strong positive – several medical schools award full points for Band 1 or use it as a tiebreaker in offers. Even Band 2 keeps you in a good position nearly everywhere (most universities consider Bands 1 and 2 equally).
If you’re in Band 3, you still have many options, though a few schools might slightly penalise Band 3 at interview or offer stage. Band 4 is the only result to be cautious about: many medical and dental schools will not consider applicants with a Band 4 score at all, regardless of their other scores.
If you unfortunately ended up in Band 4, pay extra attention to university requirements – you’ll need to avoid those that outright reject Band 4 (for example, St. Andrews, Dundee, Queen’s Belfast for medicine, among others, historically). Target schools that don’t place much emphasis on SJT in their shortlisting process. This information is available in our UCAT cut-off guides and on university websites. In some cases, a strong performance elsewhere (in academics or during an interview) can outweigh a low SJT score, but it’s best not to provide an easy reason for rejection. Plan accordingly based on your SJT – it’s an integral part of your UCAT result, especially in a year where a high proportion of applicants have Band 1.
•Stay Informed on Final Stats:
While you must submit your UCAS application by mid-October, remember that final UCAT 2025 statistics (percentiles and deciles) will be published in early October 2025. Keep an eye out for the update from the UCAT Consortium – it will display the exact percentile corresponding to your score once all candidates have completed testing.
There probably won’t be drastic changes from the preliminary figures, but knowing whether you’re, for example, in the 55th percentile versus the 50th percentile could help refine your application strategy. We will update our resources if needed when the final results are released. You can follow the official UCAT social media or our blog for those updates. Ultimately, whether you’re above or below this year’s averages, what matters most is how you use your score wisely in your applications.
FAQ: UCAT 2025 Results and Next Steps
What is the average UCAT score in 2025?
The preliminary average (mean) UCAT 2025 score is 1939 (out of 2700). This is an interim figure based on approximately the first 21,882 candidates. It may change slightly once all candidates have taken the exam, with final results expected after late September. For context, this average falls around the 50th percentile (5th decile). It is higher than the comparable average from 2024, which was about 1870 for the three equivalent subtests, indicating that scores in 2025 have been somewhat higher overall.
How does UCAT 2025 compare to 2024?
Direct comparison requires caution because Abstract Reasoning was part of the 2024 UCAT (making the total score out of 3600), whereas 2025’s total is out of 2700. However, in comparable terms (ignoring AR), 2025’s interim scores are higher. For example, the 2025 mean (1939) is above the 2024 mean (1870), and the 90th percentile in 2025 is approximately 2270, compared to 2170 in 2024. In simple terms, candidates needed to score more highly in 2025 to achieve the same percentile rank as in 2024. Additionally, 2025 saw a much larger proportion of Band 1 SJT results (25% versus 13% in 2024). These trends suggest that 2025 was a slightly more competitive and higher-scoring year, although the final data will provide a more comprehensive picture. Despite the numerical differences, remember that being, for example, in the top 20% this year is equivalent to being in the top 20% last year – admissions committees will mainly care about your percentile, not the raw score.
What is considered a good UCAT score in 2025?
A “good” UCAT score is best understood in terms of percentile. Generally, scoring in the top 30% or above is considered good for UCAT. In 2025, that might correspond to roughly above 2070 (which is around the 7th decile in the interim data). Scores above 2100 are very good, and anything in the 2200+ range is excellent (likely the top 10% or higher). An average score is around 1900–1950 (50th percentile). If you scored, say, 2000, that’s above average (~60th percentile) and should be competitive for many universities, though perhaps not the most selective ones. If you scored 1700 or below, that’s on the lower side (probably bottom quartile), but remember that some universities may still consider you if other aspects of your application are strong. Additionally, each medical or dental school defines “good” differently based on its applicant pool – it’s wise to check our resources on cut-off scores for specific guidance.
Why are the UCAT 2025 scores out of 2700 instead of 3600?
In 2025, the UCAT Consortium removed the Abstract Reasoning subtest from the exam. Previously, there were four cognitive subtests (VR, DM, QR, AR), each scored from 300 to 900, which summed to a total between 1200 and 3600. Now, there are only three cognitive subtests (Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning) scored from 300 to 900, making the total UCAT score range from 900 to 2700. The change was introduced to streamline the test. It doesn’t necessarily mean the test is easier – the scoring is scaled so that performance is comparable year to year. For example, a section score of 700 in 2025 indicates a similar level of achievement as a 700 in a previous year; you have one fewer section contributing to the total. When comparing scores to past data, it’s important to use percentiles as a reference, since the raw totals now have a different scale.
What is the 9th decile (90th percentile) UCAT score for 2025?
Based on the interim 2025 statistics, the 9th decile threshold is 2270. This indicates that scoring 2270 or higher would roughly place you in the top 10% of candidates. The data is current up to mid-September 2025. The final 9th decile could be slightly lower if more candidates score below that threshold in the remaining test dates. For example, 2024’s final 90th percentile was 2920 when AR was included, which was approximately 2170 without AR. In any case, a score in the 2200+ range in 2025 is an excellent result and would be considered among the highest scoring brackets for applicants.
How will my UCAT score impact my chances of entry for 2026?
Your UCAT score will be a significant factor in your application; however, its impact depends on the universities to which you apply. Some universities will use your score to rank candidates for interview offers – in that scenario, a higher score directly improves your chances. Other universities operate a cut-off system, where you need to exceed a specific score (set based on each year’s applicant pool) to be considered; beyond that threshold, additional UCAT points don’t make a difference. Some universities adopt a more holistic approach, where UCAT is one component among academic grades, personal statement, and other factors. You should research each target school’s policy. If your score is well above last year’s cut-off for a school, you can feel confident applying there. If it’s borderline or below, you may risk rejection without even getting an interview. Also note that Situational Judgement bands can influence outcomes – some schools give extra credit for Band 1 or won’t accept Band 4. We strongly advise reading our dedicated blogs on UCAT usage: one for medical schools and one for dental schools (2026 entry) that detail each school’s approach.
In summary, a high UCAT score can significantly boost your chances at UCAT-focused universities. In contrast, a lower score means you should target universities that typically place less weight on the test. With wise choices, you can maximise your potential regardless of your score.
When will the final UCAT 2025 results be released?
The final UCAT 2025 results, including updated mean scores, deciles, and percentiles for the entire cohort, will be published shortly after the testing cycle concludes (the UCAT testing period in the UK generally runs until late September). The UCAT Consortium has stated that final statistics should be available in early October 2025. These final figures will reveal the exact cut-off points for each percentile, allowing you to see your definitive ranking among all candidates. The preliminary results we discussed are an interim snapshot; final results may differ slightly.
Keep an eye on the official UCAT website or their social media for announcements. We will also update our analysis if necessary after those figures are released; however, the changes are usually minor. Remember, you do not need to wait for the final results to proceed with your UCAS application – use the interim percentile as a guide for now, and rest assured that universities will receive your actual score directly. Be mindful of any significant changes when the final data is released, especially if you are close to a cut-off point, for your peace of mind and planning purposes.
Start Your Preparation for Medical School Interviews
➡️ Once you have strategically selected your medical schools based on your UCAT score, the next hurdle is the Medical School Interviews. Enrol in our Medical School Interview Course — taught by NHS doctors who teach at 3 UK medical schools — and include an MMI mock circuit to practise common Sunderland scenarios.
Final Thoughts on the UCAT Interim Scores 2025:
The release of the UCAT 2025 preliminary results offers helpful insights for every candidate. By comparing your performance to these interim benchmarks and reviewing how they compare with 2024, you can better gauge your position. If you’ve performed brilliantly, fantastic – now use that to strengthen your university choices.
If you’re around the average, be strategic and remember that many applicants in your situation secure offers by applying wisely. And if you’re disappointed with your UCAT score, don’t lose hope – focus on the medical or dental schools where you have a real chance (there are more than you might think, even with a lower score).
Ultimately, UCAT is just one part of the puzzle for 2026 entry. Admissions tutors will also consider your academic qualifications, personal statement, references, and interviews. Use the data, do your research (start with the linked resources in this blog), and make informed decisions. With the right approach, your UCAT score – high or low – can work to your advantage. Good luck with your applications!
