UCAT Exam 2025-2026| Get Complete Information about University Clinical Aptitude Test here

HOW IT IS SCORED 

In 2025, the UCAT will have three cognitive subtests and one Situational Judgement Test. The cognitive subtests are Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, and Quantitative Reasoning. Each of the three cognitive sections are scored between 300 and 900, and the Situational Judgement Test is also scored similarly. The total score is a combination of these individual section scores, with a total score range of 1200 to 2700. 

🎯 UCAT 2025 Scoring Explained

With significant changes to the UCAT format beginning in 2025, it’s important to understand how your exam will be scored — and how universities will evaluate your performance.

🆕 Major UCAT Change in 2025

From UCAT 2025 onwards, the Abstract Reasoning section has been removed.
This means:

• The total cognitive score is now out of 2700 (earlier it was 3600).

• The exam now consists of three cognitive sections and the Situational Judgement Test (SJT).

📊 UCAT Scoring Breakdown (2025 Onwards)

👉 Cognitive Total Score:
You can calculate your total UCAT score by adding the three cognitive sections (VR + DM + QR), giving you a score out of 2700.

Alternatively, many candidates report their average score out of 900 by dividing the total by 3.

✅ What is a Good Situational Judgement Score?

The Situational Judgement Test (SJT) is scored separately in bands:

• Band 1 – Excellent

• Band 2 – Good

• Band 3 – Moderate

• Band 4 – Low

🔍 Note:
The SJT uses a partial marking system — meaning you may still receive partial credit for answers close to the ideal response. However, this depends on the specific question and is not guaranteed for all.

⏳ UCAT Score Validity

Your UCAT score is valid for one admission cycle only.

• UCAT 2025 results will be valid for 2025 entry (or deferred 2026 entry).

• If you apply again in a future year, you must resit the UCAT.

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At EduQuest, our admissions team has years of experience guiding students through successful applications to top medical universities. Every year, we celebrate impressive success stories — with our students gaining admission to leading medical schools across the UK, Ireland, and Australia, including prestigious institutions like Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL.

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In addition to helping students improve their UCAT and BMAT scores, EduQuest provides comprehensive medical school application consulting, including:

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• 🏥 Medical attachments and volunteering opportunities

• 💬 Unlimited interview preparation, focusing on Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI)

🎤 Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) Training

Most medical schools require students to attend an MMI as the final stage of the admissions process. EduQuest prepares students through simulated MMI sessions, designed to mirror real interview conditions.

Students will receive:

• Structured coaching on communication skills

• Strategic training on how to structure and respond to various types of questions

• Practice with a wide range of interview scenarios, including ethical dilemmas, teamwork, leadership, and healthcare awareness

🧠 What to Expect in an MMI

Students will go through 5–6 timed interview stations, each testing specific characteristics. These may include:

• 🗣️ Mini-interviews or discussion tasks

• 🧩 Problem-solving exercises or puzzles

• 🎭 Role-play scenarios

• 🧍 Individual or group tasks involving collaboration

• 💡 Questions on motivation for medicine, ethical issues, healthcare systems, and leadership

🔍 Why EduQuest?

At EduQuest, we offer a holistic admissions strategy designed to make students stand out in an increasingly competitive process — from profile development and test prep to final interview success.

While some medical schools — especially those that rely heavily on UCAT scores — may place less emphasis on shadowing experience or letters of recommendation (LORs) from doctors if you have a strong academic profile, gaining exposure in both areas is still highly recommended.

🔍 Why Shadowing and LORs Still Matter

Both shadowing and LORs can enhance your application by demonstrating your commitment to medicine and offering insight into your readiness for the profession.

✉️ Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

• While not all medical schools require LORs specifically from doctors, having one can provide a significant advantage — particularly when applying to competitive programs.

• LORs from science professors, research mentors, or clinical supervisors can help validate your academic strengths and your potential as a future healthcare professional.

• A compelling recommendation from a medical professional who has observed your interest, ethics, and dedication to the field can elevate your profile.

🩺 Doctor Shadowing

• Shadowing is often not mandatory but strongly encouraged. It helps you develop a realistic understanding of the medical profession.

• It also shows admissions committees that you’ve taken the initiative to explore the career firsthand and are making an informed decision.

• Some medical schools — even those that emphasize UCAT — do consider shadowing experience as a sign of maturity and purpose.

🏫 What About Non-UCAT Universities?

• For universities that do not require the UCAT, factors such as LORs and shadowing tend to carry more weight in admissions decisions.

• Requirements and preferences vary by institution, so it’s crucial to review each school’s criteria carefully.

• Even when not explicitly required, these experiences can reflect your genuine interest, professionalism, and preparedness for a rigorous medical curriculum.

✅ In Summary

Although academic scores and test results like the UCAT are central to the admissions process, supplementing your application with strong LORs and relevant clinical exposure can greatly enhance your chances — particularly for top-tier schools or those that take a more holistic approach.

🎯 If a university requires the UCAT:

• You must sit the UCAT before you apply through UCAS (deadline: 15 October 2025 for 2026 entry).

• You cannot apply first and submit your UCAT score later.

• UCAT scores are sent automatically to the universities you apply to after the UCAS deadline, but you must complete the UCAT test between 7 July and 26 September 2025.

• If you miss this testing window, you will not be able to apply to UCAT-requiring universities for that admission cycle.

🔓 If a university does not require the UCAT:

• You can apply without taking the UCAT at all.

• These schools may rely on academic results, BMAT (for some), personal statement, LORs, and interviews.

✅ Summary:

So, you must have your UCAT score at the time of UCAS application if applying to schools that require it. You cannot take the test after applying and still be considered.

🔎 Types of Interviews Used by UCAT Universities:

1. Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI):

   • Most common format used by UK med schools.

   • You rotate through 5–8 stations, each testing a different skill or trait.

   • Scenarios may include: ethics, communication, empathy, problem-solving, teamwork, role-play, and critical thinking.

2. Panel Interviews (less common):

   • Involve a group of interviewers (faculty, doctors, medical students).

   • More traditional Q&A format.

🏫 Examples of UCAT Universities That Conduct Interviews:

⚠️ Note: Some universities only invite you for an interview if your UCAT and academic scores meet their threshold.

Australian universities that offer medical programs also conduct interviews as part of their admissions process. However, the format and requirements can vary depending on the university.

🎯 Types of Interviews in Australian Medical Schools:

1. Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI):

   • Like UK universities, some Australian universities use the MMI format.

   • Students rotate through a series of short, timed stations assessing various skills such as communication, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving.

2. Panel Interviews:

   • Some universities conduct panel interviews, where a group of interviewers (often faculty members, doctors, or admissions staff) ask the applicant questions.

   • The questions typically assess motivation for medicine, academic ability, and personal attributes like empathy and integrity.

🏫 Examples of Australian Universities that Conduct Interviews:

University	Interview Format
University of Sydney	Panel Interview
University of Melbourne	MMI
University of Queensland	Panel Interview or MMI
Monash University	MMI
University of Western Australia	Panel Interview
Australian National University (ANU)	MMI
University of Adelaide	MMI
University of New South Wales (UNSW)	Panel Interview

 

🔍 What is Assessed in Australian Medical Interviews:

• Communication skills: Ability to express thoughts clearly and listen effectively.

• Empathy and understanding: Responses to ethical dilemmas, patient scenarios, or social issues.

• Motivation for medicine: Why you want to study medicine and your long-term goals.

• Critical thinking and problem-solving: Ability to reason through complex situations.

• Personality and teamwork: Whether you demonstrate the qualities required of a future doctor.

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📅 When Do You Have to Attend the Interview?

• Interviews are typically scheduled after the UCAT scores and academic records are reviewed.

• For universities that use MMI, you are usually invited to interview based on your performance in UCAT and your academic qualifications

New Zealand universities that offer undergraduate or graduate-entry medicine programs do conduct interviews, and most use the MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) format.

🇳🇿 New Zealand Medical Schools & Their Interview Formats:

1. University of Auckland – Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

• ✅ Interview Format: MMI

• 📌 When: After you apply and are shortlisted based on your academic performance (e.g., first-year grades or graduate scores) and UCAT ANZ score.

• 💡 Structure: Typically includes 8–10 short interview stations, each assessing specific attributes such as:

  • Ethical reasoning

  • Communication

  • Cultural competence (especially awareness of Māori and Pacific health)

  • Motivation for medicine

  • Teamwork and resilience

2. University of Otago – MBChB

• ✅ Interview Format: MMI

• 📌 When: Shortlisted candidates from the Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) program or graduate entry route are invited.

• 💡 Structure: Similar to Auckland, Otago uses MMI to assess non-academic qualities important for a future doctor.

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🧠 What is Assessed in New Zealand MMIs?

• Cultural sensitivity (especially awareness of Māori health disparities)

• Teamwork and leadership

• Problem-solving

• Moral and ethical judgment

• Resilience and ability to handle pressure

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🎯 Important Notes:

• UCAT ANZ is required for both Auckland and Otago.

• The interview is a critical part of your application — your UCAT and academic scores help you get shortlisted, but the MMI determines final selection.

• Preparation for NZ MMI often includes mock interviews and practice with culturally relevant scenarios (especially with a focus on New Zealand’s unique healthcare challenges).

🇦🇺 UCAT ANZ Use in Australian Universities – 2025 Entry

University	UCAT Requirement	How It’s Used	Cut-Off / Insight	Interview Required
University of Tasmania (UTAS)	Required (except SJT)	Ranks applicants with identical ATARs	~2530 (approximate, 50th percentile)	No
University of New South Wales (UNSW)	Required	Used with ATAR for interview shortlisting and final selection	Competitive UCAT + high ATAR needed	Yes
Monash University	Required	Used for interview shortlisting; later stages also consider ATAR	Strong UCAT advantageous	Yes (MMI)
Griffith University	Required	Used only as a tie-breaker within ATAR bands	No strict cut-off; UCAT lifts tie-breaks	No
Flinders University	Required	Admissions based on 90% ATAR + 10% UCAT	No interview; low UCAT weight	No
University of Adelaide	Required	UCAT + academic score → Interview shortlisting → Final selection	Higher UCAT boosts interview chances	Yes (MMI)
University of Queensland (UQ)	Required	Used to shortlist for interviews	Strong UCAT helps get interview call	Yes
University of Western Australia (UWA)	Required	UCAT + ATAR + Interview (holistic evaluation)	No fixed weight published	Yes

 

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📊 UCAT ANZ 2024 Score Insights

Percentile	UCAT ANZ Score Range
Top 10% (90th percentile)	~2900+
Average (Mean)	~2523
Competitive Score	2700–2900+

🇬🇧 UCAT Use in UK Medical Schools – 2025 Entry

University	UCAT Requirement	How It’s Used	UCAT Cut-Off / Insight (2024)	Interview Required
University of Aberdeen	Required	Weighted with academic score (50:50)	Cut-off varies by applicant pool (~2600+ typical)	Yes (MMI)
Anglia Ruskin University	Required	UCAT used for interview selection	2024: ~2550	Yes (MMI)
Aston University	Required	Used alongside academics to shortlist	Not a strict cut-off; balanced approach	Yes (MMI)
University of Birmingham	Required	Used in a weighted scoring system with academics	Typically 2600–2800 depending on applicant type	Yes (MMI)
University of Bristol	Required	100% UCAT score used for interview invitation	2024: ~2870+ for interview	Yes (MMI)
University of Dundee	Required	Used for shortlisting + personal qualities	Around 2600+ competitive	Yes (Panel/MMI mix)
University of East Anglia (UEA)	Required	Used with academics in holistic shortlisting	2024: ~2550–2600	Yes (MMI)
University of Edinburgh	Required	High UCAT score important (25% of pre-interview score); no interviews	2024: 2900+ competitive	No
University of Exeter	Not Required for 2025 entry	A100 switched to BMAT then to other methods – UCAT not required now	N/A	No
University of Glasgow	Required	Weighted system with academic achievement	~2700+ for interview	Yes (MMI)
Hull York Medical School	Required	Points-based system with SJT included	Band 4 = automatic rejection; ~2600+ preferred	Yes (MMI)
Imperial College London	Not UCAT	Uses BMAT or internal assessment	N/A	Yes
Keele University	Required	UCAT used with roles & responsibilities form	Band 4 rejected; moderate UCAT acceptable	Yes (MMI)
King’s College London (KCL)	Required	UCAT, academics, and personal statement all weighted	~2750+ competitive	Yes (MMI)
University of Leeds	Used BMAT – may change in 2025	Transitioning from BMAT; updates expected	TBD	Yes (Panel)
University of Leicester	Required	UCAT and academic performance weighted 50:50	~2600+ for interview	Yes (MMI)
University of Liverpool	Required	Used for ranking candidates for interview	~2620+ competitive	Yes (MMI)
University of Manchester	Required	Cut-off score used for interview	2024: ~2650	Yes (MMI)
Newcastle University	Required	UCAT used heavily for shortlisting	2024: ~2820+	Yes (MMI)
University of Nottingham	Required	Points system (GCSEs + UCAT + SJT)	Band 4 rejected; 2650+ typically competitive	Yes (MMI)
University of Plymouth	Required	Academic criteria + UCAT shortlisting	2024: ~2550	Yes (MMI)
Queen Mary University of London	Required	UCAT + academic points system	~2700+ competitive	Yes
Queen’s University Belfast	Required	Points system; UCAT + GCSEs	~2600+ competitive	Yes
University of Sheffield	Required	Minimum cut-off applied	2024: 2730	Yes (Panel/MMI)
University of Southampton	Required	UCAT used to select for interview	2024: ~2750	Yes (MMI)
University of St Andrews	Required	High UCAT score essential; 100% weight in initial stage	2024: ~2880	Yes (MMI)
St George’s, University of London	Required	Used to rank applicants	2024: ~2670	Yes (MMI)
University College London (UCL)	Not UCAT	Uses BMAT or alternative internal process	N/A	Yes

 

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📊 UK UCAT Score Insights (2024)

Percentile	UCAT Score Range
Top 10% (90th percentile)	~2900+
Mean	~2520
Competitive	2700–2900+

🇳🇿 UCAT Use in New Zealand Medical Schools – 2025 Entry

University	UCAT Required	How UCAT Is Used	Cut-Off Insight (if any)	Interview Required (MMI)
University of Auckland – MBChB	Yes	Used as part of admission for domestic and international applicants (usually as a threshold filter)	No strict published cut-off; score competitive	Yes (MMI)
University of Otago – MBChB	Yes	Used in the Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) and Graduate Entry pathways for selection	No official cut-off, but high UCAT helps	Yes (MMI)

 

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📌 Additional Notes:

• University of Auckland:

  • UCAT is mandatory for both undergraduate direct entry and graduate entry pathways.

  • Scores are reviewed alongside GPA and interview performance (MMI).

  • SJT band may also be reviewed, though less critically than in UK/AUS schools.

• University of Otago:

  • The UCAT is considered for shortlisting students in the HSFY and graduate pathway.

  • Emphasis is primarily on academic results, but a competitive UCAT score strengthens the application.

  • MMI performance is critical in the second stage.

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🧠 Typical UCAT Expectations for NZ Med Schools

Category	Typical UCAT Score Range
Highly Competitive	2700+
Average Competitive	2500–2650
Below Average	<2500

 

Note: New Zealand universities do not publish exact cut-offs, but based on recent trends, a score above 2600 with strong academics and interview performance offers a competitive advantage.

There is a difference between the UCAT (UK) and UCAT ANZ (Australia and New Zealand), though the test format is identical. The key differences lie in registration processes, test windows, eligibility, and usage. Here’s a breakdown:

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✅ 1. Test Format & Content:

Aspect	UCAT UK	UCAT ANZ
Sections	Same 4 sections (from 2025: 3 sections) + SJT	Same 4 sections (from 2025: 3 sections) + SJT
Scoring	300–900 per section (Total: 2700 from 2025)	300–900 per section (Total: 2700 from 2025)
SJT	Band 1–4	Band 1–4
Duration	~2 hours	~2 hours

 

✅ Conclusion: The test format and difficulty are exactly the same.

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✅ 2. Registration & Fees:

Aspect	UCAT UK	UCAT ANZ
Registration Website	www.ucat.ac.uk	www.ucat.edu.au
Testing Period	July–September (each year)	July–August (each year)
Test Fee (Domestic)	£70–£115	AUD $325 (domestic)
Test Fee (International)	£115	AUD $395 (non-resident)

 

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✅ 3. Eligibility & Location:

Aspect	UCAT UK	UCAT ANZ
Who Takes It?	Students applying to UK medical/dental schools	Students applying to Australian/NZ med schools
Test Centers	Pearson VUE centers worldwide	Pearson VUE centers (ANZ region + globally)

 

✅ You can technically take both, but must register separately for each and use them only for the respective regions’ universities.

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✅ 4. Universities That Use Them:

UCAT UK	UCAT ANZ
30+ UK medical schools	All undergraduate med schools in Australia & NZ
Some dental schools as well	E.g., Monash, UNSW, UQ, Adelaide, Otago, Auckland

 

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✅ Summary

Feature	UCAT UK	UCAT ANZ
Format	Same	Same
Usage	UK universities only	ANZ universities only
Test Fee	In GBP (£)	In AUD ($)
Registration Website	ucat.ac.uk	ucat.edu.au
Time Zones/Slots	Europe	Australia/NZ time zones

 

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✅ Final Tip:

• If you’re applying to both UK and ANZ universities, you’ll need to take both UCAT UK and UCAT ANZ, as scores are not transferable between systems.

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