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What are A-Levels? A Guide for UK and European Students
05/02/2025•11 minute read
If you are a UK or an international student in Europe aspiring to study medicine in the UK, choosing the right A-Levels or International A-Levels is your number one step toward success. It is not a secret that medical schools have strict entry requirements, and selecting the relevant subjects can significantly impact a student’s chances of acceptance. The competition at top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, UCL or Imperial is fierce, thus achieving top A-Level grades, balancing supercurriculars and relevant work experience is the right way to go! Now let’s have a look at the core A-Level subjects, the grades needed and other significant considerations for studying medicine at top UK universities.
A-Level Requirements for Studying Medicine in the UK
Biology and Chemistry
Most UK medical schools require Biology and Chemistry A-Levels, however, some universities are fairly flexible and require Biology or Chemistry plus one science subject besides other academics. Below are examples of universities that require both or just one science subject:
- Biology and Chemistry A-Levels: Imperial and UCL universities
- Chemistry + a second science subject: Oxford and Cambridge universities
- Chemistry and Science or Maths A-Levels: Bristol, Cambridge, Edinburgh, and Oxford universities
- Chemistry or Biology + 1 more science A-Levels: Plymouth and Southampton universities
It is highly advisable to research individual universities to check their specific A-Level and entry requirements for your choice of subject.
Maths and Physics
While not essential, Mathematics and Physics are secondary importance A-Levels that are recommended but not required. However, when deciding if to select them, it is important to keep in mind that any additional subjects with strong grades are considered as additional efforts and can increase your chances of acceptance.
Studying Maths and Physics can improve your problem-solving, analytical and critical thinking skills which are very much needed for studying medicine, therefore, choosing these subjects in your A-Levels should not be overlooked.
For example, Cambridge University strongly prefers applicants with at least three science or maths subjects. This means students should have Maths or Physics alongside Biology and Chemistry A-Levels to stand out amongst other applicants.
Recommended Non-Science A-Level Subjects
Most universities accept non-science A-Levels if you present strong Biology and Chemistry grades. However, it is common that a third science-based subject generally strengthens your application more than a non-science. You can always include passion subjects such as Psychology or English but be aware that they are not considered to add equal value as a third science A-Level.
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Grades Requirements for Medicine
Medical schools expect top A-Level grades from all applicants. The typical entry requirements for Oxford, Cambridge or other UK’s top universities are pretty strict:
- A*AA: Oxford
- A*A*A*: Cambridge
- A*AA to AAA: most UK medical schools
It is important to note that the requirements are usually even higher for international students.
Most universities expect top grades such as A or A* in Chemistry and Biology. Therefore, if you fall below these expectations, you risk not being selected.
Exceptions
What If You Don’t Have Necessary A-Levels?
If you haven’t taken the required A-Levels for medicine, some universities, such as King’s College London and Nottingham University, offer foundation courses or some gateway programmes. These programmes still require Biology or Chemistry A-Levels but with lower grade requirements. In addition, you could explore Graduate Medicine degrees. Check with each university individually for any alternative opportunities.
Can You Apply to Medicine If You Only Have Chemistry but not Biology?
Some universities such as Birmingham or Leeds can be flexible and accept only Chemistry and other science or Maths A-Level. However, if you don’t have the main Biology A-Level, your options are significantly reduced. Please carefully check individual university requirements before applying.
What Are A-Level Requirements For International Students?
If you are an international student applying to study medicine in the UK, you should follow the same UK A-Level, International A-Level or International Baccalaureate (IB) subject recommendations as the UK students.
How Can You Boost Your Chances For Studying Medicine in the UK
Work Experience & Extracurriculars
High grades are crucial; however, medical schools also look for students with relevant work experience, volunteering, and impressive extracurricular activities. Some strong suggestions would include hospital placements or volunteering in care homes, which can indicate your passion for the subject and put you ahead of other applicants.
Mandatory University Admissions Tests: UCAT
UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is a mandatory university admission test for most medical and dental programmes in the UK. It is an aptitude test that particularly assesses your decision-making, situational judgement, and problem-solving skills, as well as your personal qualities and suitability for studying medicine.
Personal Statement and University Interviews
While most medicine applicants usually have strong grades, they alone are not enough to get accepted. Top UK universities are also evaluating candidates through their personal statements and interviews. Your personal statement should strongly emphasise why you want to study medicine, explain any relevant qualifications and subjects and list any additional activities you’ve completed outside of school that helped you prepare for the subject.
FAQs
Can I Get Accepted to Study Medicine Without Biology A-Level?
It’s not impossible. While some universities allow Chemistry with science or Maths A-Level, Biology is still the primary subject to be accepted.
Can I Get Accepted to Study Medicine Without Chemistry?
Unfortunately, only very few universities accept Biology as another science subject without Chemistry. Chemistry is still the most important A-Level that falls into the primary consideration when selecting applicants for acceptance.
Is Maths A-Level Compulsory?
Maths A-Level is not compulsory but is strongly recommended as it can strengthen your problem-solving and analytical skills which are considered very useful in medical studies.
Final Thoughts
The right A-Level choices can give you an academic advantage and prepare you for the actual skills needed in medical majors. If you focus on Biology and Chemistry A-Levels with additional Maths or Physics, you can significantly strengthen your application. With thoughtful A-Level choices and a strong focus on developing your hard skills, you’ll be well on your way to a successful medical school application! If you are aiming to study medicine at top UK universities, such as Oxford, Cambridge, or the Imperial College London, it’s important to start crafting a standout application as early as possible. To maximise your chances, seeking support from experienced tutors and professionals is essential.
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- Medical School application strategy: Matching every student with a team of admission experts who are graduates from Oxbridge and other top UK universities
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