Securing a coveted spot at University College London's (UCL) Medical School is a dream for many aspiring healthcare professionals. But what does it take to make the cut? From the initial application to the nerve-wracking interview stage, navigating the admissions process can be a daunting task. Understanding the intricate criteria and expectations set forth by UCL is paramount for hopeful applicants.

In this article, we delve deep into the intricacies of UCL's MBBS admissions process, shedding light on key statistics, examination requirements, the significance of personal statements, and the role of UCAT scores. By demystifying the journey to UCL's Medical School, we aim to equip aspiring students with the insights and knowledge necessary to embark on their path towards a fulfilling career in medicine.

The Process - UCL invites their applicants for an interview based on the following factors:

• Predicted and actual grades
• Evidence of independent learning skills, e.g. taking Open University modules, qualifications such as the EPQ, extra-curricular reading and research
• Previous volunteering and work experience (particularly if healthcare or laboratory work, or contact with the sick, disabled, very young or elderly)
• Other interests that “broaden the general education of the candidate”, e.g. music, travel, sports
• Evidence of teamwork, leadership and communication skills
• BMAT score

The Interview – Interviews are conducted between December and March

• For entry in 2022, interviews were held online.
• There were two interviewers in the panel and the interview lasted around 20 minutes.
  • Applicants were asked a series of structured questions and scored based on the criteria listed below.

During the interview, applicants were assessed and scored for the following qualities:

• Academic curiosity and interest in healthcare
• Motivation for and understanding of the course and career in medicine
• Problem-solving and reasoning ability
• Professional attitudes and values (e.g. flexibility, integrity, empathy, honesty, conscientiousness and compassion)
• Teamwork, leadership, resilience and individual strengths
• Communication skills (e.g. verbal ability, listening skills, eye contact)

Work Experience - We would recommend any experience that involves working with other people, building relevant skills or gaining insight into healthcare professions is helpful for your application. Your reflections on what you learnt from your work experience will be assessed via your personal statement, and may also be assessed at interview.

Exams? –

GCSE

Mathematics & English Language at grade B (6). For UK-based students, a grade C (5) or equivalent in a modern foreign language is required.

A Levels

AAA.

Must include biology and chemistry

Statistics –

• Applicants- 3600
• Interview invites- 750
• Offers given- 550
• Chance of success post-interview- 75%

How Important is the Personal Statement? - Personal statements are read and priority scored using the following criteria: work experience, motivation to study medicine, evidence of team work, leadership and communication skills, independent learning skills and other interests. We encourage students to think reflectively about their skills and experiences, and how they have helped to prepare them for a career in medicine

UCAT Scores -

• Average BMAT scores for UCL applicants in 2020/21 cycle
• Section 1: 5.7
• Section 2: 5.8
• Section 3: 3.4A.
• There is no formal BMAT cut off score for UCL applications.
• Section 3 is no longer used at interviews.
• The BMAT result is used in conjunction with predicted grades, a review of the content of the personal statement and reference recommendations
• A priority score is allocated for the application as a whole.

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