
Your Essential Guide to UK Medical School Applications: UCAT, UCAS, Interviews & Beyond
Welcome to the Blue Peanut Medical School Blogโyour trusted resource for navigating the challenging and competitive journey into medicine. Whether you're in sixth form preparing your UCAS personal statement, studying for the UCAT, or gearing up for interviews such as MMIs or panel formats, our blog provides expert guidance at every stage.
Created by practising NHS General Practitioners and experienced medical educators, each article distils practical strategies, up-to-date insights, and insider knowledge to help you achieve your dream of securing a place at a UK medical school.
Work Experience Requirements for UK Medical Schools (2025 Entry)
Wondering how much work experience you need for medical school? Our 2025 guide breaks down the expectations of every UK medical school โ from shadowing to volunteering, and how to reflect on your experiences in interviews and personal statements.
UCAT Quantitative Reasoning: A Complete Introduction for Aspiring Medical and Dental Students
Quantitative Reasoning is one of the most high-pressure sections of the UCATโand itโs all about speed, strategy, and smart maths. In this complete guide, weโll break down the data formats, question styles, and mental maths skills you need to master. Whether you're aiming for medicine or dentistry, this student-friendly breakdown will help you maximise your score and approach QR with confidence.
UCAT Quantitative Reasoning: Essential Maths Concepts and How to Limit Calculations and Errors
Mastering the UCAT Quantitative Reasoning section isnโt about advanced mathsโitโs about speed, accuracy, and strategy. This guide breaks down the core maths concepts youโll need, from percentages and ratios to unit conversions and averages. Youโll also learn how to estimate the โamount of mathsโ in each question, manage your time efficiently, and avoid common calculation trapsโall essential skills for boosting your QR score on Test Day.
Top 10 UCAT Quantitative Reasoning Tips | Boost Your QR Score Fast
Struggling with UCAT Quantitative Reasoning? This guide breaks down the Top 10 expert strategies every sixth-form student should know to boost their QR score. From spotting question goals quickly to mastering time-saving techniques, learn how to approach QR smartly โ and leave the challenging maths behind.
UCAT Quantitative Reasoning โ Improve Your Speed, Accuracy & Calculator Use
Struggling with speed in UCAT Quantitative Reasoning? Learn the top strategies to avoid mistakes, work faster, and use the calculator like a pro. This expert guide will help sixth form students sharpen their mental maths and boost their UCAT scores.
Building a Support Network as a Muslim Medical Student ๐ฉบ๐๐
Building a support network is vital for Muslim medical students. Learn how Islamic societies, mentors, supportive friendships, university services, and community connections help you succeed academically, socially, and spiritually. ๐ฉบ๐
Navigating Ramadan and Eid as a Muslim Medical Student ๐๐
Managing Ramadan fasting and Eid celebrations in medical school can be challenging. Discover ways to balance spiritual fulfilment and academic success with these practical tips.
The Ultimate Studentโs Guide to Preparing for Medical School Over the Summer ๐ฉบโ๏ธ
Make the most of your last summer before medical school! Follow this essential guide that covers rest, administrative tasks, academic preparation, and mental readiness. ๐๐ฉบโจ
How to Excel in UK Medical School Interviews: MMI & Panel Strategies
In this comprehensive guide for UK sixth form students applying to medical school, we reveal how to excel in both Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) and traditional panel interviews. Discover strategic preparation tips, practice with sample questions, and gain the confidence to shine at topke Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, Edinburgh, and Kingโs College London. universities li
Balancing Studies and Social Life in Med School
Finding a healthy balance between demanding medical studies and an active social life is essential for success and wellbeing. This comprehensive guide offers practical tips and insights for prospective UK medical students.
A-Level Choices for Medicine: What You Really Need
Which A-Levels do you need for Medicine? This comprehensive guide outlines the essential subjects, accepted combinations, and medical school requirements in the UK โ helping you make informed decisions and enhance your chances of admission.
Starting Medicine as a Mature Student: Your Guide to Thriving at Medical School
Considering returning to education or changing careers to study medicine? ๐ This guide offers practical advice for mature students beginning medical school โ from finances and family life to academic support and making friends.
๐ Guide to Campus Social Life as a Muslim: Enjoy Uni without Compromising Your Faith
Concerned about managing university social life as a Muslim? Discover how to fully embrace your campus experience while remaining true to your faith.
How to Stay Focused on A-Levels While Waiting for Medical School
Got your med school offer but are struggling to stay motivated? Hereโs how to stay focused on A-levels, keep burnout at bay, and secure the grades you need to make your offer a reality. ๐ฏ๐
Ultimate Accommodation Guide for Prospective Medical Students (UK)
Selecting your university accommodation is one of the most significant decisions youโll make before beginning medical school. From catered halls to private housing and living at home, this guide outlines everything you need to know โ so you're prepared to apply with confidence.
๐ Your Ultimate Guide to Student Accommodation as a Muslim
Discover practical tips for managing student accommodation as a Muslim. From halal food and cleanliness to coexisting comfortably with non-Muslim peers, this guide covers everything!
๐ท Guide to Student Finance for Medical Students (UK)
Starting medical school in 2025? Learn how student finance worksโfrom tuition fees to maintenance loans and NHS bursaries. A complete guide for future medics.
How to Choose Your Firm and Insurance UCAS Choices for Medicine ๐๐ฉบ
Choosing your firm and insurance offers for medical school is a big step towards your future career as a doctor ๐ฉบ. Hereโs how to decide which offers are correct for you โ from course structure and teaching style to location, support, and your gut feeling.
Balancing Muslim Faith and a Medical Degree: A Student's Comprehensive Guide
Balancing faith with medical studies might seem challenging, but with strategic planning and communication, Muslim students can successfully uphold their religious duties and excel academically. ๐๐ฉบโจ
Sweet Truths: What the UK Says About Non-Sugar Sweeteners (NSS)
The UKโs top nutrition experts have spoken! SACN's new review of non-sugar sweeteners explains whether they're really a healthy alternative to sugar. Find out what they say about weight, teeth, and your diet.