Your Essential Guide to UK Medical School Applications: UCAT, UCAS, Interviews & Beyond

Welcome to the Blue Peanut Medical School Blogโ€”your 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.

Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

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.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

UCAT Quantitative Reasoning: A Complete Introduction for Aspiring Medical and Dental Students

Quantitative Reasoning is one of the most high-pressure sections of the UCATโ€”and itโ€™s all about speed, strategy, and smart maths. In this complete guide, weโ€™ll 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.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

UCAT Quantitative Reasoning: Essential Maths Concepts and How to Limit Calculations and Errors

Mastering the UCAT Quantitative Reasoning section isnโ€™t about advanced mathsโ€”itโ€™s about speed, accuracy, and strategy. This guide breaks down the core maths concepts youโ€™ll need, from percentages and ratios to unit conversions and averages. Youโ€™ll also learn how to estimate the โ€˜amount of mathsโ€™ in each question, manage your time efficiently, and avoid common calculation trapsโ€”all essential skills for boosting your QR score on Test Day.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

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.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

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 Kingโ€™s College London. universities li

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

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.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

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.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

How to Stay Focused on A-Levels While Waiting for Medical School

Got your med school offer but are struggling to stay motivated? Hereโ€™s how to stay focused on A-levels, keep burnout at bay, and secure the grades you need to make your offer a reality. ๐ŸŽฏ๐Ÿ“š

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

Ultimate Accommodation Guide for Prospective Medical Students (UK)

Selecting your university accommodation is one of the most significant decisions youโ€™ll 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.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

How to Choose Your Firm and Insurance UCAS Choices for Medicine ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿฉบ

Choosing your firm and insurance offers for medical school is a big step towards your future career as a doctor ๐Ÿฉบ. Hereโ€™s how to decide which offers are correct for you โ€“ from course structure and teaching style to location, support, and your gut feeling.

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Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB Dr Imran Khan, MBChB, and Dr Abdul Mannan, MBChB

Sweet Truths: What the UK Says About Non-Sugar Sweeteners (NSS)

The UKโ€™s 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.

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