UCAT Cut-Off Scores for UK Medical Schools: A Guide for 2026 Entry
UCAT Scores and Cut-Offs: How Medical Schools Use Your Score
How does your UCAT score affect your chances of getting into medical school? You're not alone. With many universities using the UCAT in various ways, it can be a daunting prospect. But don’t worry—understanding how each medical school uses the UCAT can make a big difference and help you choose the right four UCAS options strategically.
Some medical schools establish a UCAT cut-off score; if you score below this, you won’t be considered. Others rank applicants based on their UCAT performance and invite the highest scorers to interview.
Many universities also evaluate your academic grades, such as GCSEs or predicted A-levels, alongside your UCAT. This suggests that a strong, all-round application can still be competitive, even if your UCAT score is not perfect.
➡️ Use your UCAT score strategically. Avoid “wasting” an application on a university where your score is far below their typical cutoff, and conversely, leverage a high score by applying where it will give you maximum advantage. Below, we provide targeted advice for high, mid, and low UCAT scorers based on 2025’s final decile ranges.
How to read this guide (and what “cut-off” actually means)
Cut-off = the lowest UCAT score that actually received an interview invite in a given cycle. Some schools publish this number after the cycle ends.
Threshold = a minimum to be considered (e.g., “you must score at least X to be eligible”).
Many medical schools don’t use a fixed cut-off. Instead, they rank applicants by UCAT (often alongside GCSEs/contextual factors) and set the interview line after they’ve seen the year’s results.
For 2026 entry, you must sit the UCAT 2025 exam. The UCAT Consortium confirms this and lists all participating universities.
How do medical schools select students for an interview?
Fixed Cut-Offs: Some universities publish a minimum UCAT score each year. Fall below this, and your application might not be considered.
Post-Application Cut-Offs: Other schools determine their cut-off after reviewing all applicant scores, depending on the number of interviews they can offer.
UCAT Ranking: Many universities rank all applicants by their total UCAT score and invite the top-scoring candidates to an interview.
Combined Scoring Systems: Some medical schools assign points for UCAT, GCSEs, personal statements, and other factors, then sum them together.
SJT Banding: Many universities won't accept applicants with a Band 4 in the Situational Judgement Test, and some are cautious with Band 3. A few are more flexible with international students.
Section Weighting: Certain universities put extra emphasis on the Verbal Reasoning section, so strong performance here can boost your chances.
Changes After BMAT: Since the BMAT has been phased out, some former BMAT universities (including some top London and Oxbridge alternatives) now use the UCAT instead.
In the past, UCAT deciles were commonly used to assess applicants; however, most schools now prefer clear raw score thresholds, making it easier to know where you stand. Thankfully, universities are also becoming more transparent about how they use your UCAT score, though it’s always smart to check each one carefully.
Choosing medical schools based on how they use the UCAT can massively improve your chances of getting an interview—and ultimately an offer. So let’s break down what each UCAT university is looking for.
⚠️ This UCAT cut-off guide is updated regularly for 2025 results and the 2026 entry cycle. University admissions policies are subject to change without notice; applicants are advised to consult the official university websites for the most up-to-date information. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, Blue Peanut accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. Past scores do not guarantee future cut-offs.
Big change for the UCAT 2025 test (affecting 2026 entry)
UCAT is evolving in 2025, including the removal of Abstract Reasoning and a three-subtest format (plus SJT). Universities are warning that scores will not be directly comparable to previous years. Manchester, for example, mentions the change and tentatively expects a competitive interview score around 1800–1900 (with SJT Band 1–2), but emphasises this may shift once actual results are released.
Queen Mary (Barts) also flags the new three-subtest structure on its admissions statistics page.
How Do I Know If I Have a Good UCAT Score?
Understanding Your UCAT Score – What’s Good, What’s Not, and What It Means for You
After sitting the UCAT, one of the first questions you'll ask yourself is: Was my score good enough? But what exactly defines a good UCAT score?
The answer isn’t always straightforward. What’s regarded as a “good” UCAT score varies depending on how each medical or dental school utilises it in the selection process. In this guide, we’ll help you understand how your score compares to others and what it signifies for your university options.
The best way to judge your score: Percentiles and Deciles
UCAT publishes yearly deciles/percentiles, showing how your total score compares with those of other candidates. For context, in 2024 (with the old four-subtest format), mean subtest scores were ~601 (VR), 620 (DM), and 649 (QR), with official decile tables provided by UCAT. For 2025, UCAT states that preliminary mean scores/deciles will be released in mid-September, with finals following the completion of testing. Use those tables to map your total to a percentile once they’re out.
How to use this in practice
Find your total cognitive score (VR+DM+QR).
Check the current UCAT decile/percentile table for 2025 and locate your percentile.
Read the admissions pages of your chosen universities to see whether they use cut-offs, points/weighting, or a holistic approach (and how they treat SJT).
What Makes a UCAT Score ‘Good’?
While exact deciles for 2025 are pending, you can use these rule-of-thumb bands, then refine with the official decile table:
Excellent: Top 10–20% of candidates, usually competitive at universities with high UCAT thresholds or that rank heavily based on UCAT total.
Strong: ~Top 30–40%. Competitive at many UCAT-focused or points-based institutions, especially with Band 1–2 SJT and strong academics.
Competitive/Average+: Around the mid-50%. Target universities employ holistic shortlisting or balanced weighting across academics, UCAT, and SJT.
Below average but viable: 30–40th percentile or lower. Focus on schools that either don’t set strict cut-offs or prioritise academics, contextual flags, or interviews.
For an example of how thresholds vary year-to-year, Bristol publishes its historical UCAT interview threshold (e.g., 2024 entry used a high cut-off under the old scale). This illustrates why university policy matters more than a single number. Always check the current page for each school.
Will every school publish a UCAT cut-off?
No. Many will only state process (e.g., “rank by deciles”) and may publish historic minimums later as part of transparency reports/statistics pages (e.g., Barts, Manchester).
UCAT 2025 Final Results
Higher Average Scores in 2025:
The final mean total UCAT score in 2025 was 1891 (out of 2700, since only three cognitive subtests were taken). This represents a slight increase from the comparable mean of 1870 in 2024 (note: 2024 figure adjusted to three subtests for a fair comparison, as explained below).
In practical terms, the 2025 average was about 21 points higher, indicating a slight increase in overall performance.
Subtest Averages – Verbal Steady, QR Up:
Breaking down by section, Verbal Reasoning (VR) remained roughly the same, around 601–602 in both years. Decision Making (DM) increased slightly from 620 in 2024 to 628 in 2025, showing a modest rise.
The most significant improvement was in Quantitative Reasoning (QR), which rose from 649 in 2024 to 661 in 2025. These trends indicate minor improvements in problem-solving and math skills year over year, while verbal skills have remained steady.
Decile Distribution – Scores Shift Upward:
UCAT deciles, which divide candidates into percentiles, also rose in 2025. For example, the median total score (5th decile, 50th percentile) in 2025 was around 1880, up from approximately 1860 in 2024. A top 10% score (9th decile) was roughly 2220 in 2025, compared to about 2170 (equivalent three-subtest score) in 2024.
Even the 1st decile (bottom 10%) increased slightly (~1580 in 2025 versus 1580 in 2024, practically the same). In short, a higher UCAT score was needed in 2025 to achieve the same percentile as the previous year. This indicates a general trend of improved performance – likely influenced by changes in the exam and better preparation – although the shifts are not significant.
More Candidates in 2025:
It’s worth noting that over 41,000 students sat the UCAT in 2025, up from about 38,000 in 2024. A larger pool can increase competition at the top end (and also lead to more low scorers at the bottom). Indeed, the slight upward shift in deciles could partly be attributed to the inclusion of more high-achieving students in the cohort. The UCAT is a very competitive exam, and in 2025 it was more popular than ever – something to bear in mind as you evaluate your result.
UCAT 2025 Final Results
Mean Total Score (Cognitive Subtests)
- Final total cognitive mean scaled score: 1891
| Cognitive Subtest | Mean Scaled Score |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning (VR) | 602 |
| Decision Making (DM) | 628 |
| Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 661 |
Scaled score range for each cognitive subtest is 300 – 900.
2025 Decile Rankings
Each decile rank represents 10% of candidates based on overall test performance (e.g., 1st decile = 10th percentile).
| Decile Rank | Total Score | VR | DM | QR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (10th %) | 1580 | 500 | 520 | 520 |
| 2nd (20th %) | 1680 | 540 | 560 | 570 |
| 3rd (30th %) | 1760 | 560 | 590 | 590 |
| 4th (40th %) | 1820 | 580 | 610 | 630 |
| 5th (50th %) | 1880 | 600 | 630 | 650 |
| 6th (60th %) | 1950 | 620 | 650 | 680 |
| 7th (70th %) | 2010 | 640 | 670 | 710 |
| 8th (80th %) | 2100 | 670 | 700 | 750 |
| 9th (90th %) | 2220 | 700 | 740 | 820 |
⚖️ What About the Situational Judgement Test (SJT)?
Your SJT Band is assessed separately from your cognitive score, but it still matters.
Band 1–2 strengthens applications, and some schools award points or use SJT for tie-breaks.
Band 3 is acceptable at many schools, but may reduce competitiveness where SJT is scored.
Many medical schools do not accept band 4; others ignore SJT entirely or consider it only post-interview. Policies vary, so verify each university’s stance.
Are SJT bands used?
Often yes, but typically after shortlisting (e.g., used at interview/offer stage or as a tiebreak). Check each school’s policy page for how SJT is weighted (Birmingham explicitly uses SJT at the interview stage).
However, a few medical schools are more lenient:
Bristol, Plymouth, and Dundee may still consider you with a strong cognitive score.
Some universities may use your Band score as a tiebreaker between borderline applicants, even if there’s no official cut-off.
🎯 How to Use Your UCAT Score Strategically
Rather than focusing only on whether your UCAT score is “good” or “bad,” think about how many universities it allows you to apply to confidently. That’s the real power of your score.
Top Tips:
Check each university’s most recent UCAT cut-offs and selection criteria on their official website.
Aim to apply to at least two universities where your UCAT score is clearly above previous years’ thresholds.
Consider applying to one “aspirational” choice and one “safer” option, based on how your score aligns with their criteria.
There’s no single “good” UCAT score that guarantees success. It’s all about context, strategy, and knowing where your strengths lie. Whether you scored above 2700 or below 1900, there’s always a smart way to shape your UCAS application.
UCAT 2025 Situational Judgement Test (SJT) Results:
One of the most significant year-on-year changes was in the Situational Judgement Test (SJT) outcomes. In 2025, 21% of candidates achieved Band 1, a notable increase from 13% in 2024.
Band 2 also increased slightly (from 36% to 39%), while the number of candidates in Band 4 decreased significantly (from 13% in 2024 to 10% in 2025).
This indicates that a greater proportion of applicants demonstrated strong ethics and judgment skills in 2025’s test. Such an improvement in SJT performance is uncommon year-over-year, suggesting that either the 2025 scenarios were somewhat simpler or students had sharpened their SJT preparation methods. In any case, performing well on the SJT is now more common, though Band 1 still offers a clear advantage at many universities.
UCAT 2026 Entry Updates: Latest Policies from UK Medical Schools
Some medical schools have updated their UCAT criteria for 2026 entry. Please check back here for updates, as we will provide more information as it becomes available (updated September 16, 2026).
Edinburgh: Minimum 1650 (/2700) for 2026 entry before scoring
Leicester: Change: 2026 scoring documents updated for the new UCAT scale—UCAT = 50% of pre-interview score (less for Access), Band 4 = automatic rejection, and the bottom two deciles are capped in scoring.
Liverpool: 2026 decile-based guidance updated for the new /2700 scale: Home applicants likely around 4th–6th decile (~1810–1920); International 7th–9th decile (~1980–2170) (guidance, not a hard cut-off).
Sheffield: Minimum 1800 (/2700) for 2026 entry (based on multi-year centiles).
Keele 2026: applications below 1700 (/2700) or SJT Band 4 not considered.
Kent & Medway Medical School (KMMS): Change: 2026 entry policy refreshed—all applicants must sit UCAT; strong contextualisation of academic attainment relative to school background; prospectus and entry page updated for 2026.
St George’s: minimum 500 per subtest plus an overall cycle-specific cut-off published during the cycle.
Schools that do not pre-publish a numeric cut-off (or publish later in-cycle)
Bristol — explicitly says no fixed UCAT cut-off; the interview threshold varies each year.
St George’s (SGUL) — says they’ll publish the UCAT cut-off during the cycle (after interview invites), not in advance.
Manchester — calculates a year-specific threshold after receiving UCAT scores; doesn’t announce one in advance.
Glasgow — confirms UCAT is used and that thresholds vary each year; points applicants to historic admissions data ranges rather than a fixed 2026 cut-off.
Leicester — 2026 docs/FAQs say no UCAT cut-off; UCAT contributes to scoring instead (and Band 4 SJT not considered).
QUB (Belfast): 2026 policy updates UCAT weighting but doesn’t set a numeric cut-off.
Where Should I Apply Based on My UCAT Score for 2025 Entry?
Choosing where to apply for medicine is somewhat like a matchmaking game – you want to select universities that “like” your kind of profile. Your UCAT score (and SJT band) is an essential part of your profile. Here’s how to consider your options:
⚠️ Always verify the latest admissions pages for each medical school, as policies can change at any time. Historical scores do not necessarily predict future policy.
⏫ High UCAT Scorers (Top Deciles – ~8th–9th decile and above)
If your total score is around 2100+ (approximately top 20% or better, with ~2220 being top 10% in 2025), congratulations – you’re in a strong position! A high UCAT opens many doors, but you should use it wisely. Medical schools that are UCAT-heavy will be looking to snap up candidates like you. These include universities that rank applicants almost entirely by UCAT score or have very high cut-off thresholds for interviews. Examples (based on historical admissions policies) include:
University of Bristol – Shortlists 100% on UCAT score (they don’t even factor SJT for interview selection). Bristol traditionally sets its interview threshold around the top deciles.
Newcastle University – Has historically invited candidates strictly by UCAT ranking. Newcastle loves high UCAT scorers, and their cutoff is often around the 8th–9th decile.
University of Sheffield – Usually has a defined UCAT cutoff (around 1800 in the new scoring, i.e. about 50th percentile for 2026 entry) for eligibility, but effectively favours higher scores for interview selection.
King’s College London (KCL) – Ranks applicants by a combination of academics and UCAT; a very high UCAT significantly boosts your chances at KCL, given strong grades.
University of Glasgow – Traditionally places heavy emphasis on UCAT for RUK (Rest of UK) applicants. Average UCAT of those interviewed at Glasgow has been extremely high (~2900 in old scoring, ~2175 equivalent), so it’s friendly territory for top scorers.
University of Southampton, St. Andrews, Queen Mary (QMUL) – These have favoured high UCAT applicants in the past, either by ranking or by setting cutoffs that only top scorers easily meet.
Imperial & UCL – New to UCAT (switching from BMAT for 2025 entry). They are likely to set very high cutoffs initially, given the calibre of applicants. With a top score, you stand a good chance, but note that they also demand strong academics.
Oxford or Cambridge. Neither has a fixed UCAT cutoff (they use holistic scoring of academics and UCAT), but in reality, Oxford will expect very high UCAT scores, considering their applicant pool. Cambridge might accept some mid-high UCAT scores if grades are exceptional, but an above-average UCAT is advisable for Cambridge as well.
Pro Tip: Use your score to your advantage. Apply to at least two schools where your UCAT is well above their recent cut-off(virtually guaranteeing an interview if you meet other basics). For example, if you scored say 2200 (which is excellent this year), schools like Bristol, Newcastle, Glasgow, Sheffield, KCL, etc., are within reach. Also consider one of the competitive integrated schools (e.g., Oxbridge) if your academic profile aligns.
And keep an eye on SJT – if you have Band 1 or 2, you’re generally fine for most; if you have Band 3, consider avoiding those that require Band 2. (Definitely don’t apply anywhere with Band 4 – fortunately, with a high UCAT, you likely didn’t get Band 4, but if you did, focus only on schools that explicitly ignore SJT or consider Band 4 case-by-case, which are very few.)
➡️ Mid-Range UCAT Scorers (Around the Middle – ~4th–7th decile)
If your score is somewhere around the average (say roughly 1850–2050), you’re in the mix with a large chunk of applicants – not top 10%, but not bottom tier either. In 2025 terms, this might be about 1900 (median), up to the low 2000s (roughly 60th–70th percentile). With a mid-range UCAT score, your strategy should be balanced: include a couple of choices that value academics and other factors alongside the UCAT, rather than only the UCAT-centric schools.
Look for universities with a holistic or mixed selection process. Many schools combine UCAT scores with GCSEs, A-level predictions, or contextual points in a scoring system. For example:
University of Birmingham – Uses a points system that combines GCSE achievement and UCAT (plus extra for contextual applicants). A strong academic record can significantly enhance a UCAT score that is slightly above average.
University of Leicester – Very transparent scoring: they award points for GCSEs and UCAT to rank candidates. If you have solid GCSEs and an around-average UCAT, you can still be competitive (Leicester has historically interviewed many in the mid deciles by balancing academics with UCAT).
Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) – QUB uses a weighted system (e.g. 36 points academic, 9 points UCAT for 2026 entry). This means that excellent grades can offset an average UCAT score. They also have a slightly lower UCAT expectation for NI (Northern Irish) applicants.
University of Leeds – Does not have a strict UCAT cutoff. They publish the lowest UCAT score for which an interview is invited each year. Strong GCSEs or contextual factors can balance a mediocre UCAT at Leeds. This makes Leeds attractive if your academics shine more than your test scores.
University of Aberdeen / Dundee – Scottish schools like Aberdeen and Dundee don’t pre-set a UCAT cutoff; they rank UCAT relative to the applicant pool and consider academics heavily. They often accept mid-range UCAT scores, especially for home students, provided your grades and interview are good.
University of Liverpool – Uses a threshold approach: they require a minimum UCAT (historically around the 40th percentile) and then factor in GCSEs for interview selection If you’re around or above their usual cutoff (which is typically mid-range), you have a shot, especially with strong GCSEs or if you qualify for contextual flags.
Aston University – Considers UCAT alongside academics in a balanced way. They don’t heavily penalise an average UCAT if your other credentials are good. SJT isn’t used for shortlisting at Aston.
Anglia Ruskin (ARU) – Ranks applicants by UCAT for those who meet minimum academic requirements, but their cutoffs have been moderate. They also give preference to local applicants via a points system. A score in the 50th–70th percentile range has often been enough for an interview at ARU, especially if you’re in their region.
University of East Anglia (UEA) – Uses UCAT plus SJT alongside interview performance for offers. UEA tends to invite a wide range of scores (they don’t simply cut off the lowest deciles initially), so a mid-score can still get an interview, and then it’s up to your interview to shine.
Mid scorer game-plan: Aim for at least two schools that use balanced criteria (academics plus UCAT). If your grades are excellent, focus on those institutions that will reward your academic achievements, such as Leicester, Birmingham, Cardiff, QUB, etc. If you have strong extracurriculars or a compelling personal statement, also consider places like Keele and Sunderland (which we discuss next), where a form or essay can showcase those qualities.
It’s wise to include at least one “safe” choice where your UCAT score is comfortably above their typical required level — perhaps from the low UCAT-friendly list, if you qualify, as a backup. Remember to double-check each target school’s recent UCAT cut-off or selection policy; many publish the previous year’s data. The key is not to apply blindly to places like Bristol or Newcastle with a mid-range UCAT – you’ll likely fall below their cut-off – but to target those where your score is competitive or can be balanced by other strengths.
⬇️ Low UCAT Scorers (Below Average – Lower Deciles)
Worried because your UCAT score is on the low side (e.g., under ~1800, which is around the 3rd–4th decile)? Don’t panic – gaining entry to medicine with a low UCAT is still achievable with careful planning. In 2025, a score below ~1820 placed you in the bottom 30-40% of candidates, but many universities consider more than just the UCAT. Here’s how to improve your chances:
Apply to low UCAT “threshold” schools:
Some universities set a relatively low UCAT cut-off just to weed out only the very lowest scores, then focus on other criteria. For example, Kent and Medway Medical School (KMMS) had a cut-off score of around 2470 (old scoring) for 2024 entry, which corresponded to about the 44th percentile. That’s below average – meaning they were willing to consider candidates who scored in the bottom half, provided other aspects were strong. KMMS for 2026 entry again expects a score in the mid-2400s on the old scale (roughly 1800s on the new scale) as a threshold – essentially, you must beat approximately the bottom third of test-takers. Once you pass that, KMMS uses a holistic points system (45 points total: 36 for academics and 9 for UCAT) – so UCAT accounts for only 20% of their selection criteria. They contextualise your grades to your school, so it favours those who perform well relative to their background.
Similarly, Keele University and the University of Sunderland are known as very UCAT-light. They typically require just that your UCAT is above the bottom 20th percentile (~▼1700) and no Band 4 SJT, but beyond that, they rank you by a separate “Roles & Responsibilities” form (Keele) or personal statement/experiences (Sunderland). In fact, Keele and Sunderland place so much weight on volunteering, work experience, and insight (via their R&R form) that your exact UCAT score (once past the low cutoff) barely matters. These are excellent options for applicants with low UCAT but strong non-academic experiences. Just ensure you meet any minimum GCSE/A-level requirements and take the time to craft a stellar R&R form outlining your commitment and reflection on experiences.
Consider schools that value academics more:
We mentioned some points in the mid-score section that also apply to low scorers with exceptional academic records. Cardiff, for instance, if you genuinely have top-notch GCSEs (like 9s across the board) and your UCAT score is low but not catastrophically so, you might still secure an interview because Cardiff has been known to interview a few lower UCAT candidates who excel academically. However, this is a risky move– consider Cardiff only with a low UCAT if your academics are truly outstanding and you understand it’s a high-risk, high-reward decision.
Queen’s Belfast (QUB), as noted, allocates 36 academic points versus 9 UCAT; a low UCAT (say, the bottom 30%) could cost you about 2-3 points out of 9, which can be offset by full academic points if you have them. Leeds might also be viable since they have no cutoff – but remember, Leeds still values other strong factors (they rank GCSEs heavily; a low UCAT won’t harm you there, but low UCAT combined with mediocre academics will). Buckingham (a private medical school) doesn’t utilise UCAT at all – they have their own exam, but that’s an expensive route and unrelated to UCAT.
Newer and Less Competitive Schools:
Consider smaller or newer programmes where application numbers are lower. Brunel University (London) is a new private medical school (opened in 2022) that primarily recruits international students, with some UK places. They have had to be flexible with the UCAT to fill places. Brunel’s selection is mainly based on UCAT ranking after meeting basic criteria, but in practice, mid-range UCAT scores (even around 2500 on the old scale) have secured interviews. They also stated that if interview slots remain unfilled, they might consider applicants who didn’t take the UCAT at all, relying on their academics and personal statements to demonstrate their flexibility. However, note that Brunel will reject Band 4 SJT. If you’re a home student, Brunel is a private institution (tuition approximately £40,000 per year) with only around 50 UK places, making it an expensive backup option. For international students or those comfortable with private funding, a UCAT score in the low to mid-range may be sufficient for admission to Brunel.
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and the University of Plymouth are two standard public institutions that have historically had lower UCAT cut-offs, around the national average or slightly below. For example, ARU’s cut-off in some recent years has hovered around the 50th percentile. If your score is near the average (approximately the 5th decile) or just below, ARU or Plymouth might be within reach, provided you meet their academic requirements.
No-UCAT Graduate Programs:
As a side note, if you’re a graduate applicant with a low UCAT, consider that some grad-entry courses use GAMSAT instead of UCAT (like ScotGEM in Scotland, which we’ll mention below). That could be an alternate pathway if you plan accordingly – but that’s beyond the scope of this undergrad-focused guide.
Look at Gateway or Foundation programmes:
Many medical schools offer foundation year routes (sometimes called “Gateway to Medicine”) for widening participation students or those who missed standard entry grades. These often have lower UCAT expectations or separate quotas. For instance, the HYMS (Hull York Medical School) Foundation course will consider lower UCAT scores if you meet specific widening participation criteria. If eligible, these programs can be a lifeline – ensure you qualify under their specific WP requirements.
Medical schools with no (or very flexible) UCAT cut-offs:
Some universities do use UCAT, but in a very flexible way. University of Liverpool (as mentioned) sets its cutoff around the 40th percentile; if you’re near that (~1800+ in 2025) and have strong other attributes, you could still apply. Plymouth usually has a cutoff that’s around the national average – some years higher, some years lower, so research the latest threshold; it might be within reach. Aberdeen and Dundee (for Scottish applicants, in particular) will consider a lower UCAT score if academics and other factors compensate.
For low scorers, the key is honest self-assessment and risk management. You get four UCAS choices for medicine – use them wisely. It’s often advised to include at least one “safer” option if your UCAT is low. A safer option could be a medical school that historically accepts applicants in the lower decile ranges due to its holistic admissions process. (Avoid those like Newcastle or Bristol where a low UCAT won’t cut.) And definitely make sure to prepare an excellent personal statement and gather strong references, as these carry more weight at the schools that de-emphasise UCAT.
Applying to Scottish Medical Schools as a Rest-of-UK Applicant
If you’re from England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, it’s useful to know that applying to Scottish medical schools can be more competitive. Medicine in Scotland is a “controlled subject,” meaning the government limits the number of available places and allocates them based on domicile — Scottish, Rest-of-UK (rUK), and International. Since the quota for rUK students is smaller, the competition for each place is significantly higher, even though academic standards remain the same.
For example, recent data show that universities such as Edinburgh and Aberdeen have acceptance rates for Scottish-domiciled students that are roughly twice as high as those for applicants from the rest of the UK (rUK). This doesn’t mean it’s impossible — but you’ll need to stand out with a strong UCAT score, excellent academics, and a well-crafted personal statement. If you’re applying from outside Scotland, focus on your UCAT preparation and target universities where your score comfortably exceeds their recent cut-offs.
Applying to Welsh Medical Schools: Is It Harder for Rest-of-UK Students?
If you’re aiming for Cardiff or Swansea Medicine, you might wonder whether being from outside Wales affects your chances. The truth is — Welsh-domiciled students do receive a small advantage, as both universities prioritise local applicants to encourage more doctors to train and stay in Wales. Cardiff considers Welsh students as a “contextualised group,” offering them additional consideration and sometimes slightly lower grade offers, while Swansea’s Doctors for Wales scheme gives preference to Welsh applicants when allocating interview places.
That said, strong Rest of UK applicants still regularly receive offers. Cardiff’s selection process relies heavily on UCAT — so a high UCAT score can easily outweigh domicile differences — while Swansea emphasises GAMSAT and interview performance. In other words, your test results and preparation matter far more than your postcode.
⚠️ Do you have a low UCAT score?
Check out our blog on where to apply with a low UCAT score for Medicine.
For aspiring dentists, you can see where to apply with a low UCAT score for Dentistry.
⚠️ Do you have a high UCAT score?
Check out our blog on where to apply with a high UCAT score for Medicine.
Keep scrolling for our list of UCAT Medical Schools and their selection criteria! ⬇️
Complete List of UK UCAT Medical Schools & Their Selection Criteria
Below is a comprehensive overview of how UK medical schools have traditionally assessed UCAT scores, including cut-off points, interview criteria, and other selection factors. We have included historical data from past years, which can support a well-rounded approach.
➡️ UCAT admissions policies are subject to change, so it is essential to check the official university websites for the latest information before submitting your application.
✅ Use your UCAT score wisely to improve your chances of gaining a place in medical school! Treat any historical “cut-offs” as context, not guarantees. Always check the current cycle’s page.
🔎 Know how each school scores you: some are UCAT-heavy (e.g., Bristol); others balance UCAT with academics(e.g., Birmingham 40% UCAT; Leicester 50:50).
⚠️ Watch SJT rules: several schools either score SJT (HYMS) or exclude Band 4 (Edinburgh, Keele).
Is any information here incorrect? Please let us know at support@bluepeanut.co.uk
Aberdeen – UCAT is required and forms part of a holistic shortlist alongside academics; Aberdeen explicitly says there’s no fixed UCAT cut-off. Their published weighting is ~30% academics, 20% UCAT, 50% interview.
Anglia Ruskin (ARU) – Candidates who meet minimum academic criteria are then ranked by UCAT for interview; ARU does not publish an annual cut-off figure (so don’t rely on “2640”).
Aston – All SJT bands are accepted (SJT isn’t scored at shortlisting). Aston score academics up to 24 points and use total UCAT in ranking; they do not publish a UCAT “12-point” scheme or a fixed cut-off.
Bangor – UCAT is required in the year of application. Bangor indicates that UCAT is part of the shortlisting process; however, no minimum threshold is quoted on their website.
Birmingham – Shortlisting is 40% UCAT, 60% academics; no universal cut-off is used. (The “lowest score 2700” claim shouldn’t be treated as a standing cut-off.)
Brighton & Sussex (BSMS) – From 2025 entry onward, BSMS requires UCAT and notes it may be used as a final discriminator after interview.
Bristol – After academic screening, 100% weighting on UCAT for interview selection. The 2024 interview threshold was 2940 (published by Bristol).
Brunel – Applications are reviewed by a selection panel and then ranked by UCAT (or GAMSAT); the highest scores are invited to interview until slots are filled.
Cambridge – UCAT is required for Medicine at Cambridge from the 2025 cycle onward; it is integrated into the selection timelines.
Cardiff – All applicants must sit the UCAT. Cardiff may use UCAT for shortlisting or offer decisions; there is no minimum, and any cut-off varies by cycle.
Dundee – UCAT required, and Dundee states explicitly that there is no minimum cut-off score; they provide historic statistics but do not endorse the “1900/2675” figures in the prompt.
Edge Hill – Applicants who meet eligibility and academic requirements are then shortlisted by UCAT for interview; Edge Hill does not publish an annual cut-off on its website.
Edinburgh – For 2026 entry, the minimum total UCAT cut-off is 1650, and SJT Band 4 is rejected.
Exeter – Uses a combined score placing heavier emphasis on academic achievement, with UCAT also contributing to shortlisting (Exeter does not publish a public 25%/75% split on site, so avoid quoting it).
Glasgow – UCAT is an important component of MBChB admissions and interview allocation; Glasgow does not publish a standing numerical threshold (so avoid stating “2500 for 2025”).
Hull York (HYMS) – Clear points system: GCSE 35, UCAT 35 (by decile), SJT up to 15; SJT Band 4 is not accepted.
Imperial – All MBBS applicants must sit the UCAT.
Keele – Applicants with a total UCAT score <1700 or SJT Band 4 are not considered.
Kent & Medway (KMMS) – Require SJT Band 1–3 and set a cycle-specific UCAT cut-off (e.g., 2500 in 2024).
King’s College London (KCL) – KCL considers overall UCAT score (averaged across subtests) plus SJT alongside academics and personal statement; no fixed cut-off published.
Lancaster – UCAT required from 2025 entry onwards; Lancaster publishes cycle data but does not claim a fixed cut-off.
Leeds – UCAT is now required (post-BMAT).
Leicester – 50:50 weighting between UCAT and academics at shortlisting; Leicester publishes annual thresholds but avoids fixing “2270” as universal.
Liverpool – Rank by UCAT (with academics) to shortlist; Liverpool does not publish a standing cut-off and notes that thresholds vary by year. (So don’t hard-code “2310”.)
Manchester – Applies a year-specific UCAT threshold and considers SJT; “if you meet the threshold and have Band 1/2 you’re likely to be invited” reflects their guidance, but the exact number varies by cycle.
Newcastle – Shortlisting is by UCAT rank; the school publishes historical yearly thresholds (e.g., a published list up to 2023) rather than a fixed number.
Norwich Medical School (UEA) – UCAT is used to rank candidates for interview; UEA emphasises that a high score is advantageous, but a low score does not automatically disqualify. They do not publish a standing minimum.
Nottingham – Uses a points-based system across UCAT subtests (with Verbal Reasoning double-weighted) and SJT scored separately for shortlisting (Nottingham doesn’t publish an SJT “same as cognitive combined” claim; keep wording general).
Oxford – UCAT required (A100/A101). Oxford numerically ranks applicants using overall UCAT cognitive score plus GCSE performance for shortlisting; SJT is not used at this stage. Oxford says there is no fixed cut-off.
Plymouth – Considers UCAT alongside GCSEs and A-levels in selection; thresholds vary by year (avoid hard-coding “2210”).
Queen Mary (Barts) – UCAT and tariff are considered together for shortlisting; Barts does not currently publish a formal “50:50” split on site (so don’t state it as fixed).
Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) – UCAT is scored (out of 9) and combined with GCSE score to rank for interview.
Sheffield – UCAT threshold is published each cycle. For 2026 entry, the minimum score is 1800/2700; applicants with scores below this threshold are not considered.
Southampton – Applicants are ranked by UCAT to be invited to Selection Day; UCAT is reconsidered with Selection Day performance for offers.
St Andrews – UCAT is the principal shortlisting tool; they do not promise a specific rank/number (so avoid “top 500” claims).
St George’s (City St George’s) – UCAT required and used in shortlisting; the school does not publish a standing rule of “500 in each section” on its MBBS page, so avoid stating this as a hard requirement.
Sunderland – Uses UCAT deciles and requires SJT Band 1–3; criteria are published in their entry requirements (they don’t use a blanket “top 8 deciles” rule each year).
Surrey (Graduate Entry Medicine) – UCAT is part of the admissions process (see Admissions Policy) and is used during the staged selection process for interviews.
UCL – UCAT required since the BMAT’s withdrawal.
Ulster University - delivers a Graduate Entry programme and requires applicants to take the GAMSAT. The most up-to-date information can be found on their website.
Warwick – Warwick’s process varies from year to year. They emphasise Verbal Reasoning at or above the cohort mean and publish cycle notes; don’t fix a single threshold (like “2580”) across years.
Worcester – No fixed UCAT cut-off; shortlisting depends on the cohort. Avoid stating “most shortlisted >2500” unless Worcester publishes it for that cycle.
Practical UCAT strategy for 2026 applicants
Know the new test format. Don’t rely on 2024 totals — the scale is different. Start with UCAT’s official guidance.
Shortlist sensibly. If your practice scores are around Manchester’s indicative 1800–1900, include at least one school that blends academics + UCAT (e.g., Birmingham, Leicester).
Watch for updates. Universities update policy pages across August–October. Re-check before you submit in October 2025 (for 2026 entry).
Look at historic transparency tables (e.g., Barts, Manchester) to see the range of scores that received interviews in the last cycle.
Final word
Applying to medicine requires a strategic understanding of each school’s selection criteria. We’ve outlined how each UK medical school uses UCAT scores for 2026 entry – from those with fixed high cut-offs to those taking a balanced or contextual approach. It’s crucial to align your application choices with your strengths (be it UCAT, academics, or experiences).
After completing the UCAT and submitting your application, remember that interviews ultimately determine the outcome. Most schools here use MMI interviews, which assess your communication, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving skills in scenarios. No matter how high your UCAT score, you must prepare thoroughly for interviews to secure an offer. Consider enrolling in our Medical School Interview Course and taking part in our MMI mock circuits for professional guidance. These can offer tailored practice and feedback to boost your confidence and performance.
Finally, always verify the latest details on each university’s official website when applying, as policies may change (especially with the new UCAT format). But with this comprehensive guide, you have a solid starting point to develop a smart application strategy for 2026 entry. Good luck!
