UCAT Cut-Off Scores for UK Dental Schools: What You Need to Know for 2026 Entry

Preparing for dental school in 2026? This comprehensive guide covers the UCAT 2025 exam changes and breaks down UCAT cut-off scores for all UK dental schools. We detail how each university uses UCAT in admissions, including historical cut-off trends and key statistics such as places, applicants, interviews, and offers – with separate insights for graduate entry programs. Read on for an in-depth, motivational overview to help you strategise your dental school applications.

UCAT 2025: Key Exam Changes for 2026 Entry

The UCAT exam format has been updated for 2025 (for students applying in 2025 for entry in 2026). Notable changes include:

• Abstract Reasoning Removed: The Abstract Reasoning subtest has been eliminated. The UCAT now consists of only three cognitive subtests – Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, and Quantitative Reasoning – plus the Situational Judgement Test

• New Scoring Scale: With one less subtest, the total cognitive UCAT score is now out of 2700 (three sections scored 300–900 each) instead of 3600. Verbal Reasoning still has 44 questions, Quantitative Reasoning has 36, and Decision Making has been expanded to 35 questions to compensate for the removed section

• Timing Adjustments: The overall test time remains about two hours, but time per section has been adjusted alongside the new question counts. The Situational Judgement Test (69 questions, 26 minutes) continues to be scored in Bands 1–4

These changes aim to improve the exam’s predictive validity – Abstract Reasoning was removed after research showed it was less effective at predicting performance in training. 

Bottom line: If you’re taking the UCAT in 2025 for 2026 entry, expect a three-section exam (plus SJT) with a new scoring system and slightly changed timings. Prepare accordingly and use official practice materials (which have been updated) to get familiar with the revised format.

How dental schools use UCAT (and what “cut‑off” really means)

• Most schools don’t publish a single fixed “cut‑off” every year. Instead, they set a threshold for shortlisting that adjusts according to applicant performance and cohort size. Some rank by the total cognitive score, while others combine academics and UCAT into a composite score.

• SJT is commonly used as a tie‑breaker or to de‑prioritise Band 4 applicants; a few schools explicitly deem Band 4 non‑competitive.

• Due to the new 900–2700 scale, schools that publish historic totals will warn that pre‑2025 numbers aren’t directly comparable; focus on relative position (e.g., decile) rather than absolute totals.

Tip: When a school publishes its shortlisting method or historic invite thresholds, treat those as the most reliable indicators for 2026 entry—more than hearsay or forum posts.

We have created this UCAT Universities Guide to help you make informed decisions when applying to dental schools. Although we aim to keep the 2025 (2026 entry) information accurate and relevant, YOU MUST check each dental school’s official website for the most recent and detailed admissions criteria before making any decisions.

Final 2024 UCAT Exam Scores

Although the 2024 test included Abstract Reasoning, we have excluded this data from the page. In 2024, there were 37,913 UCAT test-takers, with a mean UCAT score of 2523. Omitting the average AR score would result in a mean of 1870.

The mean scores for each subtest were:

• Verbal Reasoning – 601

• Decision Making – 620

• Quantitative Reasoning – 649

The final deciles for the 2024 UCAT were:

• 1st decile – 2140 (1610 without AR)

• 2nd decile – 2260 (1690 without AR)

• 3rd decile – 2360 (1760 without AR)

• 4th decile – 2440 (1820 without AR)

• 5th decile – 2520 (1880 without AR)

• 6th decile – 2590 (1930 without AR)

• 7th decile – 2680 (1980 without AR)

• 8th decile – 2780 (2050 without AR)

• 9th decile – 2920 (2110 without AR)

Among the 2024 test-takers, 13% reached Band 1 in Situational Judgement. 36% scored in Band 2, 38% in Band 3, and 13% in Band 4. The UCAT Consortium is planning to publish interim UCAT 2025 scores in mid-September.

Keep scrolling for our list of UCAT Dental Schools and their selection criteria! ⬇️

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UCAT Cut-Offs and Admissions: UK Dental Schools (2026 Entry)

Below we break down every UK dental school – how they use the UCAT in admissions, historical UCAT cut-off scores, and key admissions statistics. We focus on standard five-year BDS programs (undergraduate entry) and also note graduate-entry courses where offered. All UK dental schools now require the UCAT (Leeds, formerly a BMAT school, switched to UCAT from 2024 entry). Unless stated otherwise, UCAT Situational Judgement Test (SJT) band 4 (the lowest band) is typically not accepted, and many schools give preference to Band 1–2. Data are primarily for Home (UK) applicants (international cut-offs or quotas are noted where available). Always double-check each university’s official 2026 entry policy (many sources cited here are the dental schools’ own websites or Freedom of Information data).

✅ University of Aberdeen (Graduate Entry BDS)

Program: Aberdeen provides the only four-year graduate-entry BDS programme in Scotland, with 20 places available each year. Applicants must already hold a relevant science or healthcare degree (at least 2:1 Honours).

UCAT Usage: All applicants must sit the UCAT. There is no strict minimum cut-off score; instead, Aberdeen employs a weighted scoring system that combines academics and the UCAT: approximately 60% for academic performance (prior degree results) and 40% for the UCAT. The UCAT Situational Judgement band isn’t formally scored, but it may be taken into account when comparing borderline candidates with similar scores.

Historical Cut-Offs: Because Aberdeen considers candidates holistically, the UCAT threshold varies. For 2023 entry, the lowest UCAT scores invited to interview were 2110 for Scottish (home) applicants and 2460 for RUK (rest of UK) applicants. This reflects separate competition pools – Aberdeen must ensure a quota of Scottish students, so RUK applicants generally need a higher score. In practice, a UCAT score in the low to mid-2000s can secure an interview here, provided academic credentials are strong, which is lower than at many other schools.

Admissions Stats: As a highly competitive graduate programme with limited places, Aberdeen receives many more applications than available spots (exact recent figures are not published, but anecdotal evidence indicates several hundred applicants for 20 places). The small class size—only around 80 BDS students across all four years—creates an intimate learning environment but also results in a rigorous selection process. Strong academic qualifications and a solid UCAT score (although not necessarily in the top decile) are essential.

✅ University of Birmingham

Program: Birmingham’s School of Dentistry admits approximately 72 home students and up to 3 international students per year (totalling approximately 75 students) into its five-year BDS program. The program is based at the modern Birmingham Dental Hospital and School of Dentistry. For 2023 entry, Birmingham received 1,050 applications (187 from overseas) and interviewed 317 candidates, resulting in 136 offers —an offer rate of approximately 13% of applicants.

UCAT Usage: Birmingham does not set a fixed minimum UCAT cut-off; instead, UCAT is integrated into a scoring system. GCSEs are heavily weighted (around 45%), UCAT scores contribute 40%, and contextual factors make up 15% in the interview selection process. Personal statements and references are evaluated for all candidates who meet the minimum academic criteria. The Situational Judgement Test is not used in the selection process (band scores are disregarded) in recent cycles, though the school notes this may change in future cycles. Birmingham primarily ranks applicants based on an “application score” (combining academics and UCAT), then shortlists the top candidates for interviews. Importantly, Birmingham automatically excludes the bottom 25% of UCAT scorers each year, so a very low UCAT score can disqualify an otherwise strong applicant.

Historical Cut-Offs: Because UCAT is part of a holistic score, Birmingham’s “cut-off” emerges from competition each year. Recent cycles have shown a steady rise in the UCAT score required for entry. For 2023 entry, the lowest UCAT score invited to interview was 2740 (out of 3600); for 2024 entry, it was ~2780; and for 2025 entry, it increased to 2870 (these figures are for non-contextual applicants). The average UCAT among those interviewed was around 2916 for 2024 entry. In short, a high UCAT score (e.g., 2800+) has become increasingly important at Birmingham, although exceptional academics can somewhat offset a slightly lower UCAT score.

Interview & Offers: Importantly, after interviews, offers are made purely on interview performance – the UCAT and academic scores are not considered in the final offer. In other words, UCAT is a gatekeeper to get an interview, but once you’re at the interview stage, everyone is on equal footing. This means that candidates who clear Birmingham’s UCAT/GPA hurdle have a fair shot, as long as they perform well at the interview.

✅ University of Bristol

Program: The Bristol Dental School admits approximately 75–80 students annually (including both home and international students) for its five-year BDS programme. Bristol is renowned for its early clinical exposure and advanced simulation facilities, which frequently draw a large pool of highly qualified applicants.

UCAT Usage: Bristol uses a straight rank-by-UCAT approach for shortlisting. There is no announced minimum UCAT “pass” score beforehand, but Bristol effectively sets a UCAT threshold each year based on applicant scores. They combine the scores of all UCAT cognitive subtests (excluding SJT) and invite the top-ranked applicants until interview slots are filled. Since academics are assessed separately as pass/fail (you must meet minimum grade requirements), the UCAT becomes the key factor for interview selection. Bristol does not currently factor in the SJT score for shortlisting; it may only be considered after interviews or not at all. Their 2025 Admissions Statement confirms that only the total UCAT score is used for shortlisting. Work experience is encouraged but not formally assessed or required for shortlisting.

Historical Cut-Offs: Bristol’s UCAT cut-off is among. the highest in the UK. For 2025 entry (2024 UCAT), the final UCAT threshold for an interview was 3070 for home applicants (and 3040 for overseas). This marked an increase from the previous cycle – for the 2024 entry, the interview threshold was around 2940, which was in the low 2900s. The rising thresholds reflect the increasing competitiveness of Bristol. In practice, a UCAT score in the top decile (approximately 3000 or higher in recent years) was required for a 2025 entry interview at Bristol. Lower scores were kept on standby and only interviewed if space became available; for example, some candidates around 2960 were initially waitlisted for interviews when the threshold was 3070.

Admissions Stats: Bristol typically receives hundreds of applications (likely 800+). Although specific 2025-cycle numbers have not been published, the high cut-off implies that many strong applicants will be considered. If you have an excellent UCAT score, Bristol is a great choice because it gives the UCAT 100% weight in the interview process. However, if your UCAT score is average or lower, Bristol may be a riskier option, as there is no holistic offset for academic performance. (Bristol’s policy is often summed up by students as “UCAT is king” for getting an interview there.) That said, once at the interview stage, Bristol uses a structured interview (often MMI) and does not formally score UCAT further; interview performance and other factors then determine offers.

✅ Cardiff University

Program: The sole dental school in Wales, Cardiff, admits around 74 students annually into its five-year BDS programme. Cardiff is frequently highlighted for its supportive environment – the Complete University Guide 2025 ranks Cardiff in the top 5 in the UK for Dentistry. For 2023 entry, Cardiff received 979 applications and extended 97 offers, meaning roughly 10% of applicants were successful. Cardiff’s intake incorporates a significant number of Welsh-domiciled students due to government targets, along with other UK and some international students.

UCAT Usage: Cardiff takes a holistic, points-based approach. They assess academic achievements (GCSEs and A-levels) and the UCAT to generate a total score for shortlisting. Importantly, Cardiff does not have a fixed UCAT cut-off; if more applicants have top academic qualifications than available interview slots, they then use UCAT as a tiebreaker or secondary sorting criterion. In practice, Cardiff assigns points for GCSEs (up to 27 or 28 points from top grades) and may add points for A-level grades achieved. Once academic points are totalled, those with the highest or very high scores are considered. If there are too many strong candidates academically, Cardiff uses the UCAT score to differentiate between those who progress to the interview. This means that an applicant with slightly weaker grades but a very high UCAT score could still be invited, if necessary, to fill interview places, although academic performance generally dominates. The Situational Judgement Test (SJT) is not usually a deciding factor; Cardiff mentioned that for 2025 entry, they did not need to use SJT as a filter because other criteria sufficed. After the interview, offers are primarily based on interview performance. However, if there is a tie in interview scores, they may use the UCAT to determine offer priority.

Historical Cut-Offs: Since there’s no fixed cut-off, the lowest UCAT score that still secured an interview can vary widely at Cardiff – and it’s often much lower than at English schools. For example, for 2025 entry, Cardiff interviewed some non-contextual applicants with UCAT scores as low as 2040 (out of 3600). In 2024 entry, the score was around 2210, and for 2023 entry, about 2310. These low figures highlight Cardiff’s focus on academics and context; a candidate with excellent grades and a mediocre UCAT can still be admitted at Cardiff, especially if they are Welsh domiciled or meet widening participation (WP) criteria. Conversely, someone with a very high UCAT but weaker academics might not be invited if their academic score isn’t competitive. Cardiff’s average UCAT score for those interviewed tends to be around the mid-2600s to 2700s (e.g., ~2737 for 2025 entry), but this more accurately reflects the overall pool, as even lower scores can be accepted if the academics are strong. Cardiff explicitly states that the UCAT threshold “cannot be predicted” and may vary for different groups (e.g., Welsh vs. RUK) to ensure fair representation.

Admissions Stats: As noted, 979 applicants vied for approximately 74 places in 2023. Cardiff made relatively few offers (97) considering the number of interviews, indicating they are quite selective after interviewing. They also operate separate pools: Welsh applicants often have a slightly better chance due to dedicated quotas for Wales. For instance, a Freedom of Information response revealed different interview point cut-offs for Welsh versus RUK applicants in some years. In summary, Cardiff is an excellent choice if your UCAT score is on the lower side, but you have very strong academic achievements (e.g., numerous A* GCSEs) or contextual factors*. It’s also an attractive option for Welsh students. However, because so many academically exceptional candidates apply, Cardiff can still be competitive – applicants often need nearly all A*/grade 8-9 at GCSE to be safe, with UCAT scores only becoming relevant after passing that threshold.

✅ University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) – Graduate Entry

Program: UCLan’s Bachelor of Dental Surgery is a distinctive four-year programme designed for graduates. It’s a small and highly selective course, open only to UK postgraduate applicants, with the exception of one international place each year. The intake consists of only 29 students annually. UCLan’s BDS offers a graduate-entry pathway that allows students to enter directly into year 2 of a five-year curriculum, reducing it to four years by building on students’ existing knowledge. Students spend their first year in Preston, with subsequent years based at community Dental Education Centres across the North West, gaining practical experience in primary care environments.

UCAT Usage: UCLan requires UCAT for application, but like most postgraduate programmes, they also emphasise prior academic performance. The UCAT score is used to rank applicants for interview. Specific cut-offs are not published, but given the small numbers, UCLan likely selects the top UCAT scorers who meet all other criteria. Since all entrants are graduates, UCLan may consider other experiences as well, but UCAT remains an important filter. Note that UCLan’s course, while postgraduate-entry, still expects basic qualifications (they require A-levels at C or above in addition to a degree, plus GCSE B/6 in Maths and English). The Situational Judgement Test isn’t mentioned as a separate criterion, but it’s safe to assume SJT Band 4 would not be viewed favourably.

Historical Cut-Offs & Stats: Due to limited places, competition is intense. UCLan receives about 260 applications annually, interviews around 110–160 candidates, for only 29 spots. This results in an overall success rate of roughly 11%. The percentage of applicants interviewed is high (~50-60%) because many are screened out by specific requirements (only those with relevant degrees and strong UCAT scores reach interview stage). Uclan does not publicly specify exact UCAT cut-off scores, but considering the graduate cohort, a competitive UCAT (probably around or above the national average) is recommended. A comment on one Student Room noted that UCLan’s process is highly competitive, with pharmacists, doctors, biomedical graduates, and others all competing for those 29 places. In summary, UCLan is a great option for graduates seeking an accelerated BDS – but make sure your UCAT score is solid and you have a strong academic or professional background to stand out in this small pool. (International students should note: there is only one spot, so expect to need an exceptional UCAT and credentials if you are outside the UK.)

✅ University of Dundee

Program: Dundee’s dental school in Scotland admits around 60–64 students annually (exact figures vary; historically, approximately 54–65 interviews were conducted for non-Scottish applicants, suggesting a class size within that range). Dundee’s programme features integrated early clinical exposure and even employs Thiel-embalmed cadavers for anatomy, reflecting a creative, practical curriculum. The admission allocation usually includes some seats for Scottish/EU (home) students and others for RUK/International applicants. For instance, in the 2023 cycle, Dundee received 483 total applications and interviewed 127 candidates—a higher interview rate per application than many schools—indicating that Dundee’s academic and UCAT criteria effectively identify a manageable shortlist.

UCAT Usage: Dundee uses a balanced scoring system that combines academics and the UCAT, with a variation: the weighting differs for school-leavers and graduates. For standard (school-leaver) applicants, academics account for 60% and UCAT 40% in the selection process. For graduate applicants (Dundee does accept graduates into the five-year programme), it’s UCAT 60% and academics 40%. This indicates that Dundee places a high value on academic achievement (especially your achieved or predicted grades and GCSEs for school-leavers), but UCAT remains significantly important. Dundee explicitly states: selection for interview is based on a combined score of academic record and UCAT. The Situational Judgement Test is excluded from the score, although in borderline cases, a higher SJT band may be advantageous. Additionally, Dundee, like other Scottish schools, considers applicant groups separately: Scottish applicants compete among themselves to some extent, RUK in another pool, and international applicants in another. This is reflected in the different cut-off scores based on domicile.

Historical Cut-Offs: Dundee does not set a minimum UCAT score each year, but we have data on the lowest UCAT scores that received interview invitations. For 2023 entry, the lowest UCAT score invited was 2310 for Scottish applicants, 2320 for RUK, and 2120 for international students. These scores are relatively modest – Dundee has been known to interview candidates with average UCAT scores if their academic records are excellent, especially within Scotland. For 2022 entry, the lowest interviewed UCAT scores were even lower (1970 for Scottish students that year, 2120 for RUK). However, it should be noted that those low UCAT scorers likely had perfect grades, and the overall average UCAT score of Dundee interviewees is higher (around 2580–2660 for RUK in recent years). It appears Dundee’s UCAT threshold for interview could be around the mid-2000s for non-Scottish students and low 2000s for Scottish students, owing to their commitment to widening access for local students. Essentially, if you meet Dundee’s high academic standards, even a UCAT score just around or slightly below average could earn you an interview – especially for Scottish applicants. International applicants, on the other hand, typically need scores around 2120–2220+ in these cycles, which remains quite achievable.

Admissions Statistics: Examining Dundee’s recent statistics reveals a notable increase in applications since 2020. In 2021, there were 224 applications (with 54 interviews); in 2022, 329 applications (65 interviewed); and in 2023, the number rose to 483 applications (127 interviewed). Dundee expanded interview invitations in 2023, possibly indicating that more applicants met their criteria. Although the number of offers isn’t specified, schools typically offer roughly 1.4 to 1.6 times the number of places available. With approximately 60 places, Dundee might offer around 90. The higher interview-to-offer ratio (127 interviews for approximately 60 places) suggests that roughly one in two interviewees received an offer, which reflects a reasonably good chance. Key point: Dundee is relatively welcoming to applicants with strong grades but not necessarily exceptional UCAT scores. For instance, someone with mostly A*/A grades at GCSE and AAA predictions at A-level, along with a mid-2300s UCAT score, could still secure an interview—something less likely at schools that heavily prioritise UCAT scores. If you are a Scottish student or possess excellent academic records, Dundee can be a strategic choice for a lower UCAT score. Just keep in mind that after the interview, the competition remains fierce: you will need to perform well in MMIs and demonstrate the qualities they value. Dundee also favours candidates who list them as their firm choice after receiving offers, highlighting their desire for committed students.

✅ University of Glasgow

Program: Glasgow Dental School is among the largest in Scotland, typically admitting around 70–80 students annually to the five-year BDS programme. It’s a popular choice due to its modern curriculum and early clinical experience. Glasgow offers a mix of Scottish, RUK, and international places, with caps on RUK and international numbers because of funding.

UCAT Usage: Glasgow uses the UCAT to select interviewees after meeting academic requirements, but they do not publish a specific cut-off score. The policy is that for all applicants who meet the minimum academic criteria, UCAT scores are ranked, and the top scores are invited to interview until the required number is reached. In essence, Glasgow behaves similarly to Bristol in having a moving threshold, but Glasgow has historically not needed as extreme a cut-off as Bristol – partly because Glasgow also ensures regional balance (Scottish vs RUK) and perhaps considers more than just UCAT scores (they may look at applications holistically if needed). That said, Glasgow does not disclose the UCAT threshold during the cycle. Applicants often have to guess from anecdotal evidence or FOIs what score was needed. The Situational Judgement Test is not explicitly mentioned as a filter in their statements, but like most, Glasgow likely does not consider Band 4 applicants.

Historical Cut-Offs: Although official figures aren’t published, we can gather some information from forums and FOIs. In recent years, Glasgow’s UCAT cut-off for RUK students has been reported around 2800+, while for Scottish students, it might be slightly lower due to seat allocations. For example, one source noted that for 2023 entry, Glasgow’s minimum UCAT for an interview was about 2650 for domestic (Scottish) students and 2900 for RUK students. This isn’t confirmed by Glasgow, but it supports the idea that RUK applicants face tougher competition (limited RUK spots mean a higher UCAT requirement). Another FOI from a few years ago indicated Glasgow’s lowest interviewed UCAT was approximately 2580 (Scottish) and 2730 (RUK) for a previous cycle. So, expect a score in the high 2000s for a good chance. With Glasgow being tight-lipped, you should aim to score well above the average.

Admissions Tips: Glasgow values academic excellence as well. Almost all invited candidates will have strong grades, requiring at least AAA at Advanced Highers or A-levels. However, since many meet the academic criteria, the UCAT essentially becomes the key differentiator. If you’re a Scottish applicant with a UCAT score around or slightly above the national average, you might have a chance, especially given some priority for home students. RUK applicants likely need a UCAT score nearer the top quartile (e.g., 2800+). Glasgow’s interview process is MMI style, and they rank interview performance when making offers. They also consider the SJT at the offer stage: a high SJT band can sometimes serve as a tiebreaker. Overall, Glasgow is a good option if you have a strong UCAT but narrowly miss the ultra-high thresholds of England’s top schools, or if you’re a Scottish applicant with a solid profile. It’s competitive but perhaps slightly more achievable than Bristol or Newcastle, depending on your cohort. Always check Glasgow’s own admissions updates for any scoring nuances. (As of 2026 entry, all Scottish dental schools now use UCAT since BMAT has been discontinued.)

✅ King’s College London (KCL)

Program: King’s College London has the largest dental school in the UK, graduating around 150 dentists each year. The intake is split between the five-year BDS (Standard Entry) and a smaller Graduate/Professional Entry Programme (GPEP), which is a four-year fast-track for graduates. King’s is a highly prestigious dental school, ranked #1 in the UK and #4 globally in QS 2025, so competition is fierce. KCL Dental School usually receives over 1000 applications; one cycle had approximately 1132 applicants for the five-year programme. Around 300–400 are interviewed, and about 180 offers are made for roughly 120–130 places, plus around 20 graduate entry places.

UCAT Usage: King’s employs a holistic but metrics-driven selection process. There’s no fixed UCAT cut-off announced, but UCAT is very important. KCL uses a weighted scoring system: around 50% UCAT, roughly 40% academics (primarily GCSEs), and about 10% for contextual factors in ranking applicants for interviews. In practice, they convert your top 8 GCSEs into a score (full points if you have 8 or more A* / grades 8-9) and combine that with your total UCAT score. Contextual flags, such as widening participation, can boost your ranking by 10%. Unlike many schools, King’s does consider the Situational Judgement Test as part of the UCAT component – they state they look at “UCAT total score and SJT band” when ranking. For undergraduate applicants, King’s generally does not exclude Band 3, though having Band 4 might harm your chances. Essentially, if you have stellar GCSEs and a high UCAT, you’ll rank at the top; if one is weaker, the other needs to be exceptionally strong to compensate. Notably, King’s in some recent cycles first screened applicants to ensure they had at least AAA predictions and a decent personal statement, then ranked by UCAT plus academics. For Graduate Entry (GPEP) applicants, King’s places even more emphasis on UCAT alone, as graduates may not have GCSEs to score, often ranking graduates primarily by UCAT and requiring at least a 2:1 degree.

Historical Cut-Offs: King’s doesn’t publish a specific threshold, but we have clues. For 2022 entry, the lowest UCAT interview (home, non-WP) was 2360, Which seems very low for King’s and may reflect an applicant with perfect academic results boosting a modest UCAT. However, in 2023 and 2024, King’s did not release data – probably because competition increased and they changed their process. Students on forums noted that in the 2023 cycle, many interview invites went to those with UCAT scores around 2900+, with some waiting at 2800s. The average UCAT of King’s interviewees in 2023 was 2866, indicating most had quite high scores. It’s possible King’s implicit cut-off was in the 2800s in recent cycles for standard applicants, but those with strong GCSES or in context might have a slightly lower threshold. A source suggests that King’s lowest interviewed candidate in one recent year was 2940, likely for a specific group or later in the cycle. For graduate entry, an FOI revealed that the lowest UCAT interviewed with a First-class degree was 2820, and with a 2:1 was 2910 – so graduate applicants definitely needed high scores. In summary, to be safe for King’s, a UCAT around 2800+ is advisable if your academic record is strong. If you have 8–9 As at GCSE, you might manage with a slightly lower UCAT (~2600–2700) due to the 40% GCSE weighting. But if your GCSEs are average for King’s (say 5 A's, 5 A's), then an exceptional UCAT is necessary to compensate. The overall pattern shows that high achievement across all areas is typical for King’s.

Admissions Stats: King’s being the largest programme does not make it easier to get in – they simply attract more applicants. For 2022: 1132 applications, 299 interviews, 183 offers. That was an interview rate of approximately 26% and an offer rate of about 16%. Interestingly, in 2021, King’s interviewed more people (408 interviews out of 938 applications), possibly due to the chaos caused by Teacher Assessed Grades, but they still made around 181 offers. King’s tends to “over-offer' slightly (183 offers for approximately 150 places) because many offer-holders also gain admission to other top schools or medicine. Note: King’s Graduate Entry (A202) has around 25 places and about 300–400 applicants; they typically interview around 50–60 graduates. The required UCAT for GPEP is often very high (top 10% scores).

Bottom Line for King’s: It’s a fantastic school if you have a very strong academic track record and UCAT score. King’s explicitly values high GCSE performance (they even mention that they traditionally required “high GCSE grades” in addition to a high UCAT). If you are a straight-A* student with an exceptional UCAT, King’s should be on your list. If either academics or UCAT is somewhat weaker, consider whether the other is truly outstanding enough to compensate. And remember, King’s pays attention to your personal statement (not scored but read for “suitability” – e.g., genuine interest in dentistry). Finally, King’s is one of the few with a separate graduate route – if you’re a graduate, apply to A202 rather than A205 (and also consider applying to Aberdeen or UCLan grad programmes if applicable).

✅ University of Leeds

Program: Leeds School of Dentistry admits around 70–75 students each year into its five-year BChD/MChD Dentistry programme. (Leeds uses BChD/MChD terminology, but it is equivalent to BDS.) Leeds has traditionally been popular among students with strong academic records, and until recently, it was unique in requiring the BMAT exam. However, from 2024 entry onwards, Leeds switched to the UCAT – as the BMAT was discontinued. This means 2026 entry will be the third cycle of Leeds using UCAT.

UCAT Usage: Leeds uses a holistic approach to assess applications. They consider academic records (GCSEs, A-level predictions), the personal statement, and now the UCAT score. Early indications suggest that Leeds does not implement a strict UCAT cut-off; instead, they review each application comprehensively, including UCAT results, before deciding whom to invite. On Leeds’s website, they mention that the application will be evaluated based on academic performance (achieved and predicted grades) as well as the UCAT score. This points to a points system or at least a balanced assessment rather than relying solely on UCAT ranking. In the first year of UCAT implementation (2024 entry), Leeds likely had to establish their scoring method anew. It is probable they might use criteria such as GCSE scores, A-level scores, and UCAT deciles converted into points, along with possibly considering roles or responsibilities mentioned in the personal statement (Leeds has historically scored personal statements when they used BMAT). The Situational Judgement Test isn’t explicitly mentioned, but it’s reasonable to assume that a Band 4 would put an applicant at a disadvantage.

Historical Cut-Offs: Because Leeds only recently started using UCAT, we don’t have a track record of UCAT cut-offs. It was speculated that, since Leeds was an ex-BMAT school, the UCAT cut-off might end up being “slightly higher than average.” However, for 2024 entry, Leeds likely employed a holistic scoring system. One FOI request for 2024 entry (the first UCAT cycle) asked for the average UCAT score of those interviewed – if available, this could provide insight. What we do know: under BMAT, Leeds was quite competitive (they often expected BMAT scores in the top 40% for interview). For UCAT, Leeds will likely expect solid scores, but perhaps not as high as schools that rank solely by UCAT. Anecdotally, some 2024 Leeds interviewees had UCAT scores in the mid-2600s, with excellent academic records, which implies that Leeds isn’t as demanding as Bristol, requiring a score of 2900+ or higher. Aim for at least an average or above-average UCAT (~2600+) to be safe for Leeds, alongside strong A-level predictions (they require AAA including sciences) and a good personal statement.

Admissions Stats: Leeds typically receives 700–800 applications. They usually interview around three applicants per available place. For example, pre-UCAT data: for 2021 entry, Leeds had approximately 800 applications, interviewed around 250 candidates, and made about 130 offers. With the shift to UCAT, there may have been an increase in applicants (as some who avoided BMAT will now apply). If you are applying to Leeds, note that they emphasise being a well-rounded candidate – they used to assess work experience and motivation through the personal statement. So, while UCAT is now part of the process, don’t neglect your personal statement; show your insight into dentistry and your commitment. A holistic approach means that a slightly lower UCAT score won’t necessarily ruin your chances if other aspects are strong – which can be encouraging for those who felt that UCAT-focused schools were less suitable. Leeds is now a UCAT university alongside others, so we will learn more with each cycle. Always check Leeds’s admissions page for any scoring rubric they publish.

✅ University of Liverpool

Program: Liverpool’s Dental Surgery programme admits approximately 65–70 students annually. Liverpool focuses on outreach and community dental experience in its training. It is also recognised for its Non-Academic Information Questionnaire – a form that applicants complete to outline work experience and motivation, which Liverpool uses alongside UCAS applications.

UCAT Usage: Liverpool does not set a strict UCAT cut-off. Instead, they consider the UCAT score alongside their Non-Academic Information Questionnaire (NAQ). Essentially, after confirming that academic criteria are met (they require AAA at A-level, including Chemistry and Biology), Liverpool assesses applicants based on a combination of UCAT results and the content of that supplementary form (which covers work experience, teamwork, etc.). The exact weighting isn’t public, but it’s evident that a strong UCAT score is beneficial. Importantly, Liverpool explicitly states that applicants with SJT Band 4 are unlikely to be considered at all. Band 3 is probably acceptable but not ideal. Because they review NAQ, a candidate with a strong profile of experience and a decent UCAT may still progress, whereas someone with a high UCAT but a very poor or blank NAQ might not.

Historical Cut-Offs: Liverpool has not published specific UCAT cut-offs in recent years. Historically (pre-2020), Liverpool did set a threshold—such as around the 2400–2500 mark at one point. In recent cycles, they have transitioned to a more holistic assessment. An unofficial figure from the 2023 entry suggests the lowest UCAT score at interview was approximately 2400 for non-WP applicants (who had strong other qualities). Another source indicated that Liverpool requires a minimum UCAT of about 1650 (which is very low) for 2026 entry as a baseline—effectively ruling out candidates with extremely low UCAT scores, although this threshold is easy to surpass. Therefore, while there is no strict high cutoff, the average UCAT score of interviewees tends to be around or slightly below the national average. For instance, if the national mean UCAT is approximately 2500, Liverpool’s interview average might be in the 2400s, considering they also value other attributes. This makes Liverpool an appealing choice for applicants with lower UCAT scores (within reason) who possess strong interpersonal skills and relevant experiences.

Admissions Stats: Liverpool usually receives between 600 and 800 applications. They conduct multiple cycles of an online NAQ; failing to submit the NAQ by the deadline results in automatic rejection. If you do submit it on time, the selection process is holistic. In 2022, Liverpool reportedly interviewed around 300 candidates for approximately 70 places (not confirmed, but likely), and made about 100 to 120 offers. Key point: If you apply to Liverpool, be prepared to complete the Non-Academic Information form in the autumn – take it seriously as it impacts your overall score. A simply average UCAT score won’t necessarily ruin your chances if you can demonstrate excellent motivation, insight, and communication through that form (and later at interview). Conversely, even a high UCAT score won’t help if you lack non-academic strengths – Liverpool values compassionate, well-rounded entrants. Overall, Liverpool is considered “UCAT-friendly” for those with mid-range scores, provided other aspects are strong. It’s a strategic choice particularly if tests aren’t your strong point but you excel in real-world experience and can clearly articulate that.

✅ University of Manchester

Program: Manchester’s dental school admits around 75 home students and a small number of international students (usually 5–10) each year. It’s a large city university with modern facilities and is a popular choice in England. For 2025 entry, Manchester received 730 home applications, with 351 interviews and 126 offers made. This relatively high interview-to-offer ratio (more than 1 in 3 interviewed students received an offer) suggests Manchester carefully selects those they consider serious contenders for interview.

UCAT Usage: Manchester is quite transparent and structured in UCAT usage. They rank applicants by their total UCAT score after verifying academic requirements. In other words, Manchester sets a UCAT cut-off each year based on capacity. They also have clear rules for the SJT: SJT Band 4 results in automatic rejection, and Band 3 is accepted but is "de-prioritised" (meaning they prefer to interview those with Band 1 or 2 if possible). In practice, they establish a cutoff that might vary slightly for those with Band 3 (i.e., a Band 3 student might need a higher UCAT than a Band 1 or 2 student to receive the same consideration). Other factors include Manchester asking applicants to fill out a Non-Academic Information Form (similar to Liverpool’s) after shortlisting, but it isn’t used to decide who gets an interview – rather, it is considered alongside the interview in final decision making. So, for interview selection, the process is almost entirely based on UCAT (for standard applicants). Contextual applicants or WP (referred to as “WP+” by Manchester) are given a slight advantage in UCAT scoring – Manchester often sets a lower cut-off for WP by approximately 60 points.

Historical Cut-Offs: Manchester’s UCAT cut-off has been relatively high in recent years, although not the highest. For 2025 entry, the cut-off ranged from 2840–2950 for non-WP applicants (exact value depended on SJT band). They indicated that essentially Band 1/2 candidates with around 2840 were interviewed, while Band 3 candidates might have needed approximately 2900+ to meet the threshold. For 2024 entry, the cut-off was 2820 (non-WP). Past years: 2023 was around 2810, 2022 approximately 2800. It appears that the required UCAT score has gradually increased each year, likely due to applicant score inflation. Meanwhile, WP (widening participation) applicants had cut-offs approximately 50–80 points lower (for example, 2025 WP+ cut-off around 2750–2800). In summary, a UCAT score in the high 2700s to low 2800s has generally been sufficient for Manchester interviews in recent cycles (for non-WP). Aiming for 2800+ is advisable to be safe, but if you’re slightly below that and classified as Band 1 SJT or have contextual factors, you might still be considered. Being Band 1 or 2 definitely improves your chances, given the preference. Importantly, Manchester explicitly states that those below the cut-off “may be considered holistically” only if they have extenuating circumstances or scores tie at the margin—so typically, falling short means no interview.

Admissions Stats: Manchester’s data reveals interesting trends. Applications have ranged from approximately 730 to over 1000 in recent years. They interviewed a large number in 2020–2021 (over 500 in 2020 entry), but since then, they have reduced to interviewing around 340–360 students most years for home applicants. The number of offers has fluctuated: 99 offers in 2023, rising to 126 in 2025. This likely indicates an attempt to adjust for firm acceptance rates. For international applicants, Manchester has roughly 10 places; for example, in 2025, there were 94 international applications, 15 interviewed, and 11 offers – an extremely competitive process. An international applicant probably needed a UCAT score well above the non-WP cut-off to be among the top 15 interviewed (likely 3000+).

Bottom Line: Manchester is a UCAT-centric school. If you have a strong UCAT score (near or above ~2800) and at least BBB/AAA in academics, you have a good chance of getting an interview. If your UCAT is average (~2500), Manchester is probably unlikely to shortlist you (unless possibly WP, and even then probably not). However, if you do secure an interview, Manchester’s interview-to-offer rate tends to be fairly favourable. They also consider the content of your Non-Academic Form and SJT Band when making offers – for example, Band 1 or 2 can be advantageous at the offer stage. Many students value Manchester’s transparency and the fact that pre-interview selection doesn’t involve subjective factors. It’s a preferred choice for “UCAT-heavy” strategists – just ensure you prepare thoroughly for the MMI, as that is ultimately what will secure your offer.

✅ Newcastle University

Program: Newcastle Dental School in northern England offers a five-year BDS programme, admitting approximately 65 students annually, including a few international places. Newcastle is renowned for its strong research and clinical training, making it one of the most popular dental schools. It typically receives between 600 and 800 applications each cycle.

UCAT Usage: Newcastle's process is simple – shortlisting is based on UCAT score ranking after confirming minimum academic requirements. They do not consider other factors when selecting candidates for interviews; essentially, Newcastle sets a UCAT cut-off each year, depending on applicant scores. They explicitly state they cannot predict this in advance, as it depends on the applicant pool. As long as you meet the required grades (AAA at A-level, including Chemistry and Biology, along with good GCSES in English & Maths), you will be ranked solely on UCAT. The top X candidates are invited to interview (likely around 120–150 for approximately 65 places). The Situational Judgement Test (sjt) – Newcastle generally treats SJT separately: they have historically indicated they will not consider Band 4 at all (thus, Band 4 equals rejection). Band 3 may be regarded as less favourable. Often, Newcastle uses SJT scores at the post-interview stage as an additional factor in offer decisions or tiebreaks. For interview invitations, the overall UCAT score is the primary consideration.

Historical Cut-Offs: Newcastle has recently had some of the highest UCAT cut-offs among dental schools. For example, in the 2022 entry cycle (2021 UCAT), Newcastle’s cut-off was about 2850 for home students (and around 2710 for WP applicants). In 2023, it reportedly rose to roughly 2870. By 2024, rumours suggest it was in the low 2900s. Although we don’t have an official figure for 2025, given the inflation in UCAT scores, it’s likely to be near 2900–3000. For context, Newcastle is known for very high cut-offs in Medicine; for Dentistry, they’re slightly lower but still top-tier. The BluePeanut guide notes Newcastle’s threshold “varies each year” and can’t be forecast, which means it depends on that cycle’s applicants. One year, if many high scorers apply elsewhere, it might dip; another year, it could spike. Since Newcastle doesn’t consider GCSEs or personal statements at interview, it attracts many high-UCAT applicants, which raises the threshold. Therefore, if your UCAT is, say, 3000 (about top 5%), Newcastle is a good choice because you’ll likely secure an interview. If your UCAT score is around the average (approximately 2500), a university like Newcastle may be unrealistic. A simple rule: aim to be in the top 20% of UCAT scores (2750+) to consider Newcastle, and 2850+ for a comfortable chance. WP applicants may have an advantage: Newcastle may set a separate (lower) cut-off for those flagged as WP through their Partners programme or a similar initiative, which could be around 150 points lower.

Admissions Stats. Once at the interview stage, Newcastle typically uses MMI stations and then ranks candidates primarily on interview performance to make offers. They have historically also included UCAT and SJT scores into the final assessment (e.g., adding a small score from UCAT decile to the interview score). So, a high UCAT can still give you a slight advantage even after the interview, but not nearly as much as it did for securing the interview. The number of offers will be about 1.2–1.5 times the number of places, so roughly 80–100 offers for around 65 places. Summary: Newcastle is ideal for high UCAT scorers who want to maximise their advantage. It’s less about a holistic profile and more about academic and aptitude metrics upfront. If you excel at standardised tests, add Newcastle to your list. If you don’t, you might want to avoid it, as it has historically required some of the highest UCAT scores for entry.

✅ University of Plymouth

Program: Plymouth’s Peninsula Dental School, located in South West England, admits around 60–64 students annually for its five-year BDS programme. The school is renowned for its case-based learning and early clinical exposure in primary care settings. Although it is somewhat smaller and newer than some traditional institutions, it has established itself as a popular choice among many applicants.

UCAT Usage: Plymouth adopts a balanced approach: they consider UCAT alongside academic achievements (A-levels and GCSEs) when selecting candidates for interview. In practice, Plymouth does have a UCAT cut-off each year, but it’s influenced by the overall strength of the candidate pool. They explicitly state that the threshold “changes annually, influenced by overall performance of candidates and number/quality of applications.” Therefore, they don’t set a fixed number beforehand; after the UCAS deadline, they review all applicants who meet the minimum grades and then determine a UCAT cut-off that results in the desired number of interview offers. Notably, Plymouth has traditionally announced their cut-off after the fact each year, which is helpful. The SJT is not used in scoring for interviews, although, like other universities, Band 4 may be automatically disqualified; Plymouth’s website often states they don’t consider Band 4. Essentially, Plymouth’s process is: ensure you have at least predicted AAA and the required GCSEs, then rank by UCAT to fill interview slots, with a possible holistic review for borderline cases.

Historical Cut-Offs: Plymouth’s UCAT cut-offs have been moderate (not as high as Bristol or Newcastle, but not extremely low either). According to their official data, for 2025 entry, the UCAT cut-off was 2690. For 2024 entry it was 2610, and for 2023 entry 2650. These are total scores out of 3600 (pre-2025 exam format). This range (2600–2700) is around the 50th–70th percentile nationally, so quite attainable. It appears 2024’s threshold dipped slightly to 2610, possibly indicating either a larger intake or slightly weaker applicant scores that year. The jump to 2690 in 2025 suggests more high-scoring applicants or fewer available places. Still, even 2690 is roughly the national average for UCAT 2024. Therefore, Plymouth can be considered one of the more accessible UCAT schools—you didn’t need 2800+; being around the average or just above was sufficient. Naturally, those scoring below the cut-off wouldn’t be shortlisted for interview, so it’s not as holistic as Cardiff, which might interview lower scorers. Plymouth also runs a Gateway to Dentistry programme (a six-year course for WP students) which may have its own lower UCAT requirements, but for the standard A206 course, these cut-offs applied to all domestic applicants (international applicants might differ slightly if fewer apply – Plymouth usually has limited international places).

Admissions Stats: Plymouth’s application numbers are somewhat lower than those of big-city schools, but still substantial—perhaps around 500–600 per cycle. They interview roughly 120–150 candidates. They also have a separate Graduate Entry programme for medicine, but not for dentistry; however, they do accept graduates into the standard course. If you have a very high UCAT, Plymouth is a safe choice—you’d be well above their usual cut-off. For a mid-range UCAT (e.g., 2500–2600), Plymouth remains one of the best options to consider, as historically you might still secure an interview. Keep in mind, the cut-off can fluctuate—if many high scorers suddenly apply to Plymouth, the cut-off could rise. Therefore, always pair such choices with at least one that is known for less emphasis on UCAT, to hedge your bets. As of 2026 entry, remember to adjust for the UCAT scoring change: Plymouth’s 2690 cut-off (out of 3600) would approximately equate to around 2020 out of 2700 in the new scoring (if proportional), but they will likely use deciles. In any case, Plymouth remains a friendly option for applicants with a decent but not extraordinary UCAT and solid academic records.

✅ Queen Mary University of London (Barts and The London)

Program: QMUL’s Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry offers a five-year BDS programme, usually with about 80–100 places, including several international seats. Barts is distinctive because it significantly incorporates academic achievement into its selection process via the UCAS Tariff system.

UCAT Usage: Barts uses a weighted scoring system that combines your UCAT score and UCAS Tariff (academic qualifications) to rank applicants for interviews. In simple terms, they convert your achieved or predicted grades into a tariff points total (for example, A* = 56 points, A = 48, and so on for A-levels; additional points can be added for things like EPQ or extra A-levels). This total is then combined with your UCAT score to create an overall application score. Those with the highest combined scores in each category (home, overseas) are invited to interview. Importantly, Barts has a couple of minimum thresholds: they will not consider you if your UCAT is below the 4th decile (bottom 40%), or if your SJT is Band 4. These are automatic cut-offs designed to ensure a basic level of aptitude. Beyond these, a very high UCAT score can compensate for a slightly lower tariff, and vice versa. For instance, a candidate with straight A* predictions (highest tariff) and a mediocre UCAT might still rank highly, whereas someone with AAA predictions (lower tariff) would need a higher UCAT to compete. Barts explicitly states that it’s impossible to predict the threshold each year because it depends on the academic level and UCAT scores of the applicant pool.

Historical Cut-Offs: While we cannot determine an exact “UCAT cut-off” for Barts without considering the tariff context, we are aware of certain trends. In previous cycles, successful Barts applicants often had either UCAT scores in the top 30% or UCAS tariffs significantly above the minimum — or a combination of both. For example, someone with AAA* achieved would have a high tariff and could manage with a slightly lower UCAT score. Conversely, someone with only AAA predicted (the minimum) might have required a UCAT of 2800+. Anecdotal evidence from 2023 entry suggests that Barts interview invites often went to candidates with UCAT scores around 2700+ if they had strong predicted grades. The *minimum UCAT for interview in one year was cited as approximately 2400 for those with exceptionally high tariffs (e.g., four A predictions or achieved grades). Conversely, those with merely AAA predicted likely needed around 2900 to offset their lower tariff.

Barts publishes cut-off examples for Medicine (since they follow the same policy), an applicant with 152 UCAS points (AAA) might need around UCAT 2700, whereas someone with 120 points (AAA) might need 3000. For Dentistry, the scale is similar but with a slightly lower UCAT score, as the applicant pool's UCAT scores are generally lower than those for medicine. A Freedom of Information response might specify, for example, “for 2022 entry, the interview threshold was 224 points (i.e., 3 A*s and an EPQ) with UCAT 2500, or 144 points (AAA) with UCAT 2900.” The key point is that there’s flexibility.

Admissions Stats: Barts receives a large number of applications (over 800). They immediately filter out those with UCAT scores below around 2400 (4th decile cutoff – e.g., for 2024 entry, the 4th decile was approximately 2420). The remaining applicants are then ranked by their combined score. Typically, they interview about 150–200 applicants for approximately 80 offers. If you are a top student academically (e.g., predicted 2 A* and 1 A or better, or have completed an extra AS/EPQ, etc.), Barts is very advantageous – even a mid-range UCAT score might suffice. If your academic record is average (AAA across the board), you will need a high UCAT score to compensate. International applicants: Barts uses a similar approach, but note that international seats are limited (around 10) and the threshold is often higher, as many international applicants have top grades and strong UCAT scores. One great aspect of Barts is that they include achieved qualifications; gap year students with their actual A-level results (especially if they are AAA) receive full points and only need a decent UCAT score. These candidates can be highly competitive. Additionally, Barts accepts the EPQ and other qualifications for tariff points, which can boost your academic score.

Bottom Line: If you have strong academic records, Barts can be a good choice even if your UCAT isn’t outstanding, because your grades will carry significance. If you excel in both academics and UCAT, you are very likely to secure an interview here. However, if both your UCAT and grades are average (e.g., AAA and around 2500 UCAT), Barts might be a stretch. Always calculate your UCAS tariff and compare yourself – the more A* or additional qualifications you have, the lower your UCAT score you can “get away with.” Barts doesn’t formally use personal statements for shortlisting, but they might read them before making offers. They emphasise that offers are made to those who rank highest after interview, and this ranking may include a UCAT/SJT component. So, keep putting effort into all areas.

✅ Queen’s University Belfast (QUB)

Program: Queen’s in Belfast is the only dental school in Northern Ireland, admitting about 45–60 students each year. QUB has a scoring system that tends to favour local applicants to some degree and has historically been quite generous to those with modest UCAT scores if their GCSEs are excellent.

UCAT Usage: Queen’s uses a point-based system: they score applicants on academic qualifications (mainly GCSEs) and UCAT, then sum these points to rank for interview. The maximum total score is usually 42 points. Here’s how it works: they take your top 9 GCSEs and assign points (A* = 4 points, A = 3, etc.) – up to 36 points from GCSEs. Then, they consider your UCAT score (excluding SJT) and convert it to up to 6 points. The exact UCAT-to-points conversion isn’t published, but generally the highest UCAT scores earn 6 points, the next band 5, and so on. They then add any contextual “plus” points if applicable (e.g., WP may earn an extra point or two). Finally, applicants are ranked by this total. This means a student with all A* at GCSE (36/36) and an average UCAT (say 50th percentile, which might be 3/6 points) could score about 39/42, often enough for an interview. Meanwhile, someone with fewer A*s would need a higher UCAT score to compensate. The Situational Judgement band isn’t explicitly scored in QUB’s system, but they do require at least Band 3 (Band 4 usually not considered).

Historical Cut-Offs: QUB conveniently shares past threshold scores in  points. For example, the interview threshold was 38 points for 2024 entry, 37 points for 2023, and 33 points for 2022 and 2021. Note the increase: it rose from 33 to 37 in one year, likely due to grade inflation (more applicants with 9 A* at GCSE) and higher UCAT scores. By 2023 and 2024, you essentially needed near-perfect GCSEs plus a decent UCAT to reach 37–38 points. For context, 36 points from GCSE = 9 A grades. So, for 2024 entry, even with 9 As, you’d need 2 extra points from UCAT (i.e., not the lowest UCAT band) to reach 38. That suggests a UCAT score probably around the 50th–60th percentile (maybe approximately 2550-2600) to secure those 2 points. In 2023, 37 points might have meant 9 A and a slightly below-average UCAT, or 8 A* and a somewhat above-average UCAT. The lower thresholds of 33 in earlier years show that previously, having perhaps 7 As and an average UCAT was enough – but now competition has increased dramatically, likely because more top-grade students applied to QUB when other schools became more competitive. If you’re a Northern Irish student, note that QUB offers a slight advantage indirectly: NI applicants typically have high GCSE profiles, and QUB aims to retain local talent. For RUK applicants, you also need that strong profile because you are scored the same way. So, effectively, to be safe for Belfast now, aim for full GCSE points (or very close) and a UCAT score that grants you at least half of the 6 UCAT points. Since last cycle, 38/42 was required, an example of a safe profile is 9 A*S (36) plus UCAT 2700 (perhaps around 3 points), totalling 39 points- well above the cut-off. Lower combinations could suffice if the cut-off decreases (e.g., 8 A* plus UCAT 3000 might also amount to approximately 38 points).

Admissions Stats: QUB receives fewer applicants (~300-500) compared to many English schools, partly due to its location and historically lower grade requirements. However, it has become more competitive recently. QUB’s interview process is straightforward; they mainly consider the interview score, but may also take into account the total score or SJT. They tend to offer places to those who rank highest at interview, and they strongly discourage reapplicants who declined a previous offer or did not accept their firm offer. They also restrict how they consider A-level resits, only recognising them under certain conditions. If you are a high achiever academically but had a bad day with UCAT, QUB used to be a great option – though now, with many applicants holding straight A*S, even they require a bit of UCAT strength. Internationally, QUB typically has only a few international places (maybe 1 or 2), so overseas applicants generally need maximum points (i.e., 42/42) to have a chance.

Bottom Line: QUB’s system strongly rewards excellent GCSE results. If you have a series of top GCSEs, QUB should be on your radar – you won’t be as disadvantaged by a slightly below-average UCAT. For example, someone with 10 grade 9s and a UCAT score of 2400 could still secure an interview, which wouldn’t happen at most English universities. Conversely, if your GCSEs are weaker (say, 5 A*, 5 A), even a strong UCAT might not be enough because you’d start, say, at around 23 points from GCSE and even 6 points from UCAT would total 29, which is below recent cut-offs. So, assess your profile: QUB is perfect for the “brainy-but-not-aptitude-test” type of student. Additionally, QUB’s lower applicant numbers and traditionally compassionate approach can make for a less pressured application process (travelling to Belfast for an interview is something to plan for, but they are friendly!).

✅ University of Sheffield

Program: Sheffield’s School of Clinical Dentistry admits approximately 75 students annually. It is a reputable institution that focuses on evidence-based practice and training, alongside hygiene and therapy students, with an emphasis on teamwork. Sheffield usually receives around 600–700 applicants each cycle.

UCAT Usage: Sheffield uses a hybrid approach for shortlisting: there is no strict UCAT cut-off, but they expect applicants to have a “total UCAT score that is average or above average”. In practice, Sheffield reviews academic criteria—mainly looking for strong GCSEs, usually noting that most interviewees have at least 6 A/7 grades at GCSE, including Maths, English, and sciences. If applicants meet the minimum requirements, they then consider the UCAT. Traditionally, Sheffield’s guideline was that your UCAT should be at or above the national average for the year to be competitive. Scores below average are typically not shortlisted (unless perhaps through WP). For borderline scores, Sheffield prioritises those with higher Verbal Reasoning scores, as VR is seen to correlate with communication skills essential in dentistry. Additionally, Sheffield includes the SJT as part of their assessment: only applicants with SJT Band 1–3 are considered (Band 4 results are automatic rejections). Within Bands 1 and 2, preference is given over Band 3. This means that two candidates with similar academic records and UCAT scores might be distinguished by their SJT band, with Band 1 ranked highest. Sheffield is also one of the few universities that formally assess the personal statement during screening—they want to see evidence of your commitment and insight. It isn’t scored on a points system, but they read it to ensure you demonstrate the qualities and experiences expected. If an applicant passes the academic review, has a sufficiently good UCAT score (roughly ≥ average), and submits a solid personal statement, they are likely to be invited for an interview.

Historical Cut-Offs: Sheffield doesn’t publish a specific “cut-off” score due to their holistic approach, but we have data. For 2024 entry, the lowest UCAT score interviewed (non-contextual) was 2220 – this is surprisingly low and likely an outlier or a contextual case, as it deviates from the usual “average or above” stance. For 2021–2023 entries, the lowest interviewed was consistently around 2690. Thus, the typical interview cut-off range for Sheffield has been approximately 2600–2700, aligning with the national average in those years. The 2024 score of 2220 might reflect a contextual applicant or possibly a change in deciles that year – it’s hard to interpret, but such a low UCAT score being interviewed is not typical for Sheffield. The average UCAT score of those invited by Sheffield is around 2700–2800, consistent with their policy of favouring above-average scores. Therefore, if your UCAT score is at least around the 50th–60th percentile (roughly 2500–2600 last year), you may still be in a good position if other factors are strong. However, it's safer to aim for near the mean or above (e.g., 2550+ to match the typical cut-off of around 2600). Sheffield’s focus on VR also means that if your overall score is average but your VR score is high, that could give you an advantage. Conversely, if your total score is average but your VR is very low, they may skip you.

Admissions Stats: Sheffield typically interviews around 180–200 candidates for approximately 75 places. They value well-rounded applicants: the personal statement is used as a screening tool to ensure applicants understand dentistry and possess suitable qualities. Therefore, someone with a high UCAT but a weak personal statement (lacking work experience or insight) might not secure an interview, whereas someone with the required UCAT and an excellent personal statement will. This approach makes Sheffield somewhat holistic before the interview, unlike schools that focus solely on numerical scores. After interviews (which include a panel interview and an interpersonal skills test), they rank candidates by interview score to determine offers. They also consider the SJT at the offer stage as a tiebreaker or for additional information—for example, Band 1 might strengthen an applicant’s case for an offer.

Conclusion for Sheffield: It’s a balanced option – they don’t require an exceptionally high UCAT score, just around average, but they also expect you to demonstrate commitment and have strong academic records. If your UCAT score is very low, Sheffield might not be likely, but if it’s close to average and you compensate with, for example, excellent communication skills in your personal statement and possibly very good GCSE results, you still have a chance. Sheffield also offers some widening access schemes (RO/RUS etc.), which could lower the UCAT threshold slightly for those students, explaining occasional lower outliers. For most applicants, aim for a UCAT score above 2600 and a Band 1–3 SJT, and ensure your application highlights your enthusiasm for dentistry and personal strengths, which Sheffield will certainly consider.

FAQ: UCAT and Dental School Admissions (2026 Entry)

What is a good UCAT score for dentistry in 2026 entry?

A “good” UCAT score is one that meets or exceeds the typical cut-off for your target dental schools. For 2026 entry, many dental schools consider a score around the national average (which has been approximately 2500–2550 in recent years) to be competitive, while the most selective schools often have cut-offs in the 2700–2900+ range for non-contextual applicants. For example, a score around 2800+ (approximately top 20%) is usually very strong and would have passed the interview threshold at almost all UK dental schools last cycle. Scores in the mid-2000s can still be sufficient for more holistic schools (e.g., Cardiff, Liverpool, Dundee) that weigh academics heavily or don’t have fixed cut-offs. As a rule of thumb, aim for at least the 6th decile (~2600) or above to maximise your options, and adjust expectations based on where that score falls relative to known school requirements.

How have UCAT cut-offs changed for dental schools recently?

Generally, UCAT cut-offs have increased over recent years due to heightened competition and higher achievement levels among applicants. For example, Bristol’s interview threshold rose from about 2910 for 2023 entry to 3070 for 2025 entry. Birmingham’s lowest interviewed score increased from 2740 (2023 entry) to 2870 (2025 entry). Cardiff’s holistic point cutoff went from 33 points (2021) to 38 points (2024), indicating more top-grade applicants. Many English schools that rank by UCAT have experienced 50–100 point rises in cut-offs annually. This highlights the importance of UCAT preparation – as averages improve, the bar raises higher. Always consult the most recent data: universities often publish the previous cycle’s cut-offs on their websites or via FOI, which is the best indicator of what you’ll need. Remember that the UCAT 2025 changes (removal of Abstract Reasoning) will change scoring to out of 2700, so universities might report cut-offs in this new format for 2026 entry. (E.g., a 2700/3600 previous cut-off might be roughly 2025/2700 in the new scoring.) The trend is upward, so aim to surpass last year’s threshold to be safe, and consider a backup option with lower UCAT requirements if your score is borderline.

Do all UK dental schools require the UCAT?

Yes, for 2026 entry, all UK dental schools offering undergraduate dentistry require the UCAT. In the past, Leeds was the only exception (using BMAT), but from 2024 onwards, Leeds has adopted the UCAT. The UCAT is now standard for dentistry (the BMAT has been discontinued). A few schools have graduate-entry programmes (Aberdeen, UCLan, King’s GPEP) that also require UCAT. The only situation where UCAT might not be necessary is for certain widening access programmes or international transfers, but for normal applications through UCAS, you will need to take UCAT. Keep in mind, although all schools require it, how they use it varies—they may set cut-offs, rank by score, or include it as one factor. Always check each school’s policy to understand how much emphasis your UCAT score will have.

My UCAT is low. Which dental schools are best for low UCAT scores?

If your UCAT score is on the lower side (say below ~2400, 5th decile), you should target dental schools with holistic admissions or historically lower cut-offs. Cardiff University is often cited – they don’t have a strict UCAT cut-off and have invited interviewees with UCAT scores in the low 2000s when supported by strong academic records. Dundee is another option – they weight academics at 60%, so a stellar academic record can compensate for a low UCAT (Scottish applicants were interviewed with UCAT scores around 2000 in some cases). Liverpool might also be friendly: they consider a non-academic form and have no fixed cut-off, so a decent UCAT (not Band 4 SJT) plus a strong portfolio could be successful. Queen’s Belfast can work if your low UCAT is balanced by excellent GCSEs, due to their points system. Conversely, avoid UCAT-heavy schools like Bristol, Newcastle, and King’s – these typically require high scores and are not suitable for low UCAT applicants. An important note: “low UCAT” is relative – if you scored in, say, the 30th percentile (~2300), that’s considered low for many dentistry programmes. In such cases, focusing on the schools mentioned (Cardiff, Dundee, Liverpool, perhaps UCLan if you’re a graduate, etc.) is advisable, and it is crucial to ensure your grades, personal statement, and interview preparation are outstanding to maximise your chances compensate.

How do graduate-entry dentistry courses differ in admissions?

Graduate-entry dentistry (GED or GPEP) programs are accelerated 4-year courses for applicants who already hold a science-related degree. Only a few schools offer them (Aberdeen, UCLan, and King’s College London are notable examples). Key differences in admissions:

• Eligibility: You must have at least a 2:1 Honours degree (in a biomedical or health field, typically). Some accept a 2:2 with a postgraduate degree or relevant experience, but 2:1 is the standard. A-level requirements may be relaxed or not considered if you have a degree.

• UCAT usage: Grad programs still use UCAT, but often put more emphasis on UCAT compared to undergrad courses. For instance, King’s GPEP ranks applicants almost purely by UCAT for interview (since all have degrees, they don’t compare GPAs directly). Aberdeen weighs UCAT at 40% (60% academics, which in this case refers to your university performance). UCLan requires UCAT but also expects you to meet other criteria, like work experience; with limited places (only ~29 seats), a high UCAT is crucial. In summary, with graduate entry, your UCAT likely needs to be very competitive because the applicant pools are small and strong.

• Seats and competition: Grad entry courses have tiny intakes (Aberdeen 20 places, UCLan 29 places, King’s GPEP ~15-20 places). Applications per place can be even more intense than those for undergraduates. For example, UCLan gets ~260 apps for 29 spots, often from highly qualified candidates (Pharmacists, biomedical grads, etc.).

• Admissions process: They may look for evidence of prior learning in specific subjects. Aberdeen requires that your first degree cover specific biomedical topics. Some, like King’s, may have an additional interview station that focuses on your experience as a graduate. Generally, they expect a strong academic track record at the university level, as well as some relevant work or shadowing experience in healthcare.

If you’re a graduate applying to standard five-year courses, note that some schools will consider you slightly differently (e.g., Dundee flips the weight to 60% UCAT for grads). Additionally, a few standard programs allow graduates to skip earlier years (although this is rare in UK dentistry). Bottom line: Grad entry dentistry is very competitive – ensure a high UCAT, highlight your degree knowledge and maturity, and apply tactically (consider including one or two five-year courses that might be easier to get into than the dedicated graduate programs).

How important are my GCSEs and A-levels versus UCAT?

It varies by university:

• Some schools give heavy weight to academic qualifications. For example, Birmingham gives GCSEs ~45% weight in shortlisting; Dundee 60% for school-leavers; King’s about 40% via the GCSE-to-tariff conversion; QUB assigns up to 36 points to GCSEs and only 6 to UCAT. For these schools, outstanding grades can compensate for a somewhat lower UCAT, but if your grades are just minimum (e.g., all B’s at GCSE or AAA predictions with no surplus), you’ll need a better UCAT to stand out.

• Other schools are UCAT-dominated. Bristol and Newcastle, for instance, don’t score GCSEs at all once the minimum requirements are met – it is the UCAT rank that decides who gets interviewed. So for them, as long as you have, say, the required A-level predictions and like a 6/B in English and Maths GCSE, a person with AAA and a person with AAA* are on equal footing; the UCAT will differentiate them.

• Many schools adopt a balanced or holistic view. They require strong academic performance and a decent UCAT score. For example, Sheffield expects both good GCSEs (they state that most students achieve 6+ A grades at GCSE) and an above-average UCAT score. Manchester has a GPA cutoff (they won’t consider applicants with grades below a specific threshold), followed by a pure UCAT ranking – so academics matter in passing the bar, after which UCAT takes over. Cardiff scores both together.

• Also consider contextual factors: Many schools lower academic requirements for WP/contextual applicants or give extra points. For UCAT, some also have lower cut-offs for WP. This means if you meet those criteria, slightly lower grades/UCAT might suffice compared to standard applicants.

In summary, both academics and UCAT are important, but their relative weight varies. Broadly: ensure you meet at least the typical offer grades (AAA at A-level or equivalent) – without that, even a top UCAT won’t save you (except perhaps at a grad program where A-levels matter less). Once you clear academic minimums, a high UCAT will significantly boost your chances at most schools. If your grades are stellar but your UCAT is weaker, target schools that value academics (Cardiff, QUB, etc.). If your grades are decent but UCAT shines, lean towards UCAT-heavy schools (Bristol, Newcastle, Manchester). And if both are strong, you’ll be competitive everywhere!

What UCAT score do I need to get an interview offer?

This depends on the university, the applicant pool in that cycle, and your academic/contextual profile. Here’s a rough range based on recent cycles for Home/EU applicants:

• 2600–2700: This range (around 50th–70th percentile) has been enough for interviews at several schools. For example, Plymouth’s cutoff was ~2610–2690, Dundee interviewed many in the mid-2000s, Sheffield looks for roughly this range (their cutoffs ~2650 historically), Cardiff has invited sub-2500 scores in holistic review, and QUB’s 37–38 point cutoff often corresponds to a UCAT in the high-2000s or even mid-2000s if GCSEs maxed. A score of ~2650 could yield interviews at perhaps half of the dental schools, especially those not employing strict top-down UCAT ranking.

• 2700–2800: This is a strong score (around 80th–85th percentile). With ~2700 you would have been above the threshold for Birmingham (2024 entry ~2780, very close), comfortably in for Liverpool or Cardiff (since they don’t cut off at that level), likely in for Manchester (recent cutoffs ~2820 for non-WP), borderline for Bristol (which was 3070 – so 2700 would not make Bristol), and borderline for Newcastle (likely slightly below needed). At ~2800, you’d clear Manchester, Birmingham, probably King’s (depending on GCSEs), be right around Newcastle’s typical cut, and still under Bristol’s recent cut. In essence, high 2700s put you in a good position for all but the very highest, and even for those, you’re in the mix.

• 2800–2900: Excellent score. This would meet or exceed most known cut-offs. For instance, around 2870 was Birmingham’s 2025 cut and Newcastle’s around 2022 cut. ~2850 was often Manchester’s cut. At ~2900, you’d have been safe for King’s interviews in recent years, likely overkill for Dundee/Cardiff, and only Bristol (3070) and perhaps an outlier like the initial cut at Queen Mary (if you had a low tariff) would be higher. So, 2800+ basically secures interviews at the majority of schools, provided the academics are satisfactory.

• 3000+: Top ~10%. This virtually guarantees interviews at any dental school (again, assuming you meet basic grades). Bristol’s highest known cut was 3070, so if you scored 3000, you were just below that – but Bristol tends to dip into the high 2900s once initial waves are done. For all others, 3000 is above their needed threshold. It also gives wiggle room if you have a weaker academic profile at a place like Barts, since the UCAT can compensate for a lower tariff.

Please note that these are intended for non-contextual home applicants. If you’re contextual/WP, you can often subtract ~40–80 points from the required scores. International applicants typically require equal or higher scores, as there are fewer spots available (e.g., Bristol international cut-off 3040, Manchester international interviews had an average UCAT score of ~3000).

Lastly, there’s always yearly variability. Cut-offs can change if the test difficulty or applicant choices shift. Use the most recent data as a guideline, but if you’re right on last year’s cut-off, apply strategically and consider having a cushion (e.g., if last year was 2800, being under that might be risky unless you have something extra, such as a WP or stellar grades).

What changed in the UCAT 2025 exam, and will it affect cut-offs?

The UCAT 2025 exam (for 2026 entry) removed the Abstract Reasoning subtest and now consists of only three cognitive subtests (Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning), plus Situational Judgement. The scoring per section (300–900) remains the same, so the total maximum score is now 2700 instead of 3600. Decision Making also has a few more questions (35 Q) and more time.

How will this affect cut-offs? Universities will likely adjust by either using deciles or percentages. Many have already indicated that they shortlist by decile rank or a similar method, which is unaffected by the change in total. For example, a school that used to require a score of around 2800 (which was roughly the 80th percentile) will probably now need a score near the 80th percentile of the new 2700-scale (which might be approximately 2020 if the 80th percentile). They won’t suddenly expect 2800 out of 2700 (which is impossible). The UCAT consortium is guiding so that a given percentile in the new exam correlates with the same percentile in previous years. In short, cut-offs will be reported out of 2700, but in terms of competitiveness, they should align with similar percentile rankings as before.

One thing to watch: the removal of Abstract Reasoning could slightly decrease the score spread, and some candidates who excelled at AR might lose an edge. However, VR, DM, and QR still effectively distinguish candidates. If anything, universities might place a bit more emphasis on decision-making now that it carries more weight in the total score. Overall, expect communications like “our cut-off was 2500/2700,” which would be roughly equivalent to about 3330/3600 in old terms (just an example). Always check each university’s website – by the time of interviews, they usually clarify the score format. Don’t be alarmed by the smaller numbers; focus on your decile rank. A good strategy is to review UCAT official decile results (they publish interim and final each year) to see where you stand.

Does the Situational Judgement Test (SJT) band matter for dental school?

Yes, in many cases it does. While the SJT isn’t always used for interview selection, almost all dental schools have policies regarding SJT bands:

• Most will outright reject applicants with Band 4. It’s mentioned in policies for schools such as Manchester, Barts, and Liverpool that Band 4 (the lowest SJT band) will not be considered. The rationale is that Band 4 indicates below-average situational judgement, which might reflect poorly on non-academic aptitude.

• Band 3 is usually acceptable, but some schools note they “prefer” Band 1 or 2. For example, Manchester allows Band 3 but prioritises those applicants (they receive more interviews/offers compared to Band 1/2). Sheffield will consider Band 3 but gives priority to Bands 1 and 2 in ties. Cardiff didn’t need to use SJT in 2025 entry, but they could in tie-breaks.

• Bands 1 and 2 are viewed positively. Several schools note that using the SJT post-interview can increase your ranking for offers, particularly if you achieve a higher band. King’s, for instance, includes SJT in their ranking formula to some degree. Sheffield, as noted, and Manchester use it as a differentiator. Some schools (Birmingham, Bristol) currently don’t use SJT at all pre-offer, but even they might use it in offer decisions or for tie-breaks.

While a Band 3 score doesn’t necessarily disqualify you (except possibly at a few highly competitive places – for example, a borderline Band 3 might miss out where Band 2s secure the last place), it does pose a slight disadvantage at many schools. Band 4 is almost always a deal-breaker – avoid Band 4 by preparing for the SJT and answering thoughtfully. The good news is that around 90% of candidates achieve Band 1–3 each year, so Band 4 remains relatively rare. If you do happen to score Band 4, you’ll need to apply to the few programmes that might still consider it (which, as of now, none of the UK dental schools openly do – it’s safer to assume Band 4 equals no interview). In summary, aim for Band 1 or 2. Band 1 can even be a strong point – indicating excellent situational judgement. But if you’re Band 3, don’t despair; you still have many options, just perhaps not quite as advantageous as an applicant with a Band 2. If you are Band 3, consider prioritising schools that explicitly state SJT is not heavily weighted (Birmingham doesn’t use it, Bristol doesn’t consider it for interviews etc.).

How many dental schools should I apply to, and how to choose?

You have four choices on your UCAS for Dental Surgery, with one additional option if applying to a non-medicine or non-dentistry course, which some use as a backup. It’s strongly advised to use all four if you are committed to becoming a dentist, to maximise your chances. When choosing:

• Be realistic with entry requirements: Ensure your predicted or achieved grades meet each school’s requirements. Don’t apply where you don’t meet the A-level/IB criteria – they will reject you no matter your UCAT. Then consider your UCAT score relative to the schools’ typical cut-offs, as we discussed. Have a mix if possible: e.g., if your UCAT is very high, you can confidently apply to the top-tier universities (like Bristol, Newcastle, etc.), but you might still include one that’s more holistic as a backup. If your UCAT score is moderate, consider favouring holistic schools (e.g., Cardiff, QUB, Liverpool) but also include one aspirational choice if it's not too far out of reach. It’s about balancing risk.

• Consider your strengths: If you have excellent GCSEs but a lower UCAT score, consider applying to places like QUB or Cardiff. If your UCAT is strong but your academic record is average, focus on UCAT-heavy courses. If you possess excellent interpersonal skills and relevant experience, Liverpool (with its NAQ form) could be a suitable option to showcase these strengths. If interviews are your strong point, any university could be a suitable option, but be aware of differences, such as MMI versus panel interviews.

• Geography and Lifestyle: Don’t overlook the environment – you’ll spend five years there. Do you prefer a big city (London, Manchester, Birmingham) or a smaller city (Dundee, Plymouth)? Close to home or far away? While your admissions strategy is important, only apply to places you’d genuinely attend if accepted. All UK dental schools are of high quality, but their settings and teaching styles vary.

• Graduate applicants: If you’re a graduate, you may apply for some undergraduate and some graduate courses. Remember, graduate courses are fewer in number; you might combine both types to have four options.

• Back-up plan: Dentistry is competitive, with about a 1 in 7 chance of receiving an offer. Some applicants choose their fifth UCAS choice for a related course, such as biomedical science, as a backup if they do not gain a place in dentistry. This fifth choice cannot be another dentistry course. If you are committed to dentistry, you might consider skipping the fifth choice or selecting a subject you genuinely find interesting as your Plan B. However, be sure not to mention that fifth-choice subject in your personal statement, which should focus solely on dentistry.

In essence, use all four choices wisely. Research each school’s ethos and statistics. A balanced application might include: one or two aspirational (more challenging to gain entry) and two or three safer options (relative to your academic profile). For example, an applicant with a UCAT score of 2550 and strong academics might consider Cardiff, QUB, Liverpool, and Plymouth – all reasonably attainable with that profile, rather than wasting a choice on Bristol, where a 2550 score probably wouldn’t suffice. Another with a UCAT of 2900 could aim for Bristol, King’s, Manchester, and Cardiff (with Cardiff as a safer choice and the first three more competitive). Remember, you can only attend one dental school, so the aim is to secure at least one offer – you don’t need all four (as appealing as that would be), just one. Therefore, diversify your options to increase your chances of securing that crucial offer.

By understanding each UK dental school’s approach to UCAT and academics, you can plan strategically and improve your chances of success. While the admissions process is certainly competitive, careful university selection and thorough preparation for UCAT and interviews can help many applicants secure a place. Stay focused, maintain your grades, and practise your interview skills. Dentistry requires students who are not only academically capable but also empathetic communicators – so work on developing those qualities. Good luck with your UCAT and applications, and hopefully you’ll be celebrating an offer from the dental school of your dreams for 2026 entry!