Applying to medical schools with an average UCAT score requires strategic selection to enhance your chances of securing an interview. An average UCAT score typically ranges between 2,400 and 2,600. Below is a curated list of UK universities that consider applicants with average UCAT scores, along with their specific requirements.

Please note that the scores used in this article refer to the UCAT scoring system used up until 2024. From 2025, the UCAT scoring system has changed, meaning direct comparisons between ‘old’ scores and the new system are not possible. We will update this page once data is available for the new system.

Medical Schools Accepting Average UCAT Scores 

University UCAT Consideration Additional Notes 
University of Aberdeen Considers UCAT scores alongside academic achievements. No minimum threshold. For 2023 entry, the average UCAT score for interviewees was 2,760.   
Anglia Ruskin University Ranks applicants by UCAT score; no specified minimum. For 2023 entry, the cut-off was 2,640.   
Aston University Evaluates academics and UCAT score; no minimum threshold. All SJT bands accepted.   
Cardiff University Uses UCAT in selection if oversubscribed with high academic achievers. No fixed UCAT threshold.   
University of Dundee Considers UCAT alongside academic performance; no minimum score. For 2023 entry, the lowest UCAT score for interview was 1,940; average was 2,691.   
Edge Hill University Ranks candidates by UCAT score after meeting academic criteria. For 2023 entry, the average UCAT score for interviewees was 2,748.   
University of Exeter UCAT accounts for 25% of shortlisting; academic performance is 75%. No specified UCAT threshold.   
Hull York Medical School Scores UCAT out of 40; includes SJT and academic points. Requires SJT Bands 1-3.   
Keele University Applies a minimum UCAT threshold; SJT Band 4 leads to rejection. For 2022 entry, the cut-off was 2,610.   
Kent and Medway Medical School Requires minimum UCAT score and SJT Band 3 or above. For 2024 entry, the cut-off was 2,500.   
University of Leicester Gives equal weighting to UCAT and academic achievements. For 2023 entry, the cut-off was 2,250.   
University of Liverpool Ranks applicants by UCAT score; no fixed minimum. For 2023 entry, a score of 2,660 was considered competitive.   
University of Nottingham Allocates points for UCAT and academics; Verbal Reasoning is double-weighted. No fixed UCAT threshold; SJT included in scoring.   
University of Plymouth Considers UCAT alongside academic qualifications. For 2024 entry, the cut-off was 2,210.   
Queen’s University Belfast Scores UCAT out of 6; combined with GCSE scores for ranking. No specified UCAT threshold.   
University of Sheffield Ranks applicants by UCAT score; minimum thresholds apply. For 2023 entry, the cut-off was 2,850.   
University of Southampton Ranks by UCAT score for interview selection. UCAT score reconsidered alongside Selection Day performance.   
St George’s, University of London Ranks by UCAT score; minimum section scores required. For 2023 entry, the cut-off was 2,630.   
University of Sunderland Requires applicants to be within top 8 deciles; SJT Band 3 or above. For 2024 entry, this equated to a UCAT score of 2,300 or higher.   
University of East Anglia (UEA) Uses UCAT to rank applicants for interview; no minimum threshold. For 2024 entry, the minimum UCAT score invited to interview was 2,190.   

Key Considerations for Applicants with Average UCAT Scores 

Holistic Review 

Many universities assess applications holistically, considering academic achievements, personal statements, and interviews alongside UCAT scores. 

SJT Band Importance 

Situational Judgement Test (SJT) bands are crucial; some universities may reject applicants with a Band 4 score. 

Academic Performance 

Strong academic records can bolster applications, especially where UCAT scores are average. 

University Selection 

Research each university’s selection criteria to align your application with their specific requirements. 

FAQs

An average UCAT score typically ranges between 2,400 and 2,600.

 

Yes, several medical schools consider applicants with average UCAT scores, especially when complemented by strong academic records and personal statements.

 

The SJT band is significant; some universities may not consider applicants with a Band 4 score.

 

Applying to universities with lower UCAT thresholds can enhance your chances, but ensure you meet all other entry requirements.

 

You can strengthen your application by focusing on your academic achievements, writing a compelling personal statement, and preparing thoroughly for interviews. Highlight relevant work experience and extracurricular activities to demonstrate your commitment to a career in medicine. You don’t have to do it alone – check out our range of UCAT preparation services to maximise your chances of success.

 

Yes, some universities, such as the University of Buckingham, do not use the UCAT in their selection process. However, you should research their entry requirements and alternative assessments before applying.

 

When selecting a medical school, consider factors such as location, course structure, teaching style, and the weighting of UCAT scores in the admissions process. Align your preferences and strengths with the criteria of each university.

 

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