Oxford and Cambridge Medicine Application Guide (2025 Entry)

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Applying for Medicine at Oxford or Cambridge is one of the most competitive university applications in the world. Both institutions have updated their admissions process, and as of 2025 entry, the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is now required for Medicine applicants. This guide covers all the essential steps, from academic requirements to interview tips, ensuring you’re fully prepared to succeed in your application.

Medicine Application Guide (2025)

1. Course Structure

• Oxford Medicine: Oxford’s Medicine course is split into two stages:

• A three-year pre-clinical stage, focused on the scientific principles of medicine through lectures, laboratory work, and tutorials.

• A three-year clinical stage, where students gain hands-on experience in clinical settings across Oxford’s teaching hospitals .

• Cambridge Medicine: At Cambridge, the Medicine course is also divided into:

• A three-year pre-clinical stage, focusing on core scientific knowledge.

• A three-year clinical stage, where students undergo clinical training at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and other NHS trusts .

2. Admission Requirements

To apply for Medicine at either Oxford or Cambridge, you must meet the following academic requirements:

• A-Level Requirements:

• Oxford: A*AA in Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics, or Mathematics .

• Cambridge: AAA, with Chemistry and one other science subject (Biology, Physics, or Mathematics) .

• International Baccalaureate (IB): A minimum of 39-42 points with 7, 6, 6 at Higher Level, including Chemistry and another science .

3. Admissions Test: UCAT (Not BMAT)

Starting from 2025 entry, both Oxford and Cambridge require Medicine applicants to sit the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test). The UCAT is designed to assess cognitive abilities, critical thinking, and decision-making. It replaces the BMAT, which has been discontinued .

• UCAT Registration Deadline: Typically in early summer (June/July 2024).

• UCAT Test Date: Between July and early October 2024.

• Test Components: Verbal reasoning, decision making, quantitative reasoning, abstract reasoning, and situational judgment .

4. Personal Statement

Your personal statement plays a crucial role in the application process. Here’s what to include:

• Passion for Medicine: Clearly articulate why you want to study Medicine, referencing any relevant work experience or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment.

• Academic Excellence: Highlight your academic achievements, particularly in science subjects, and any additional reading or projects you’ve undertaken.

• Work Experience: Discuss your healthcare-related work experience, focusing on what you learned about the medical profession and patient care .

5. The Interview

If shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview in December 2024. Oxford and Cambridge interviews are academically focused and are designed to assess your critical thinking and ability to apply scientific knowledge - for more detailed information, visit the Interviews section.

• Oxford Interviews: Typically involve multiple interviews with academic tutors, who will ask you to discuss medical problems and explore your reasoning .

• Cambridge Interviews: Similar to Oxford, the interview process is academically intense, often involving problem-solving tasks and discussions about scientific topics .

6. Key Dates for 2025 Entry

• UCAS Application Deadline: 15 October 2024.

• UCAT Test Window: July - October 2024.

• Interview Dates: December 2024.

• Decisions Released: January 2025 .

7. International Applicants

International applicants are welcome but should be aware of limited places. Oxford admits 14 international Medicine students per year, while Cambridge caps international admissions at around 7.5% of the total intake .

Need help preparing for your Medicine application? At The Oxbridge School, we provide tailored support, including UCAT preparation, personal statement reviews, and mock interviews. Get in touch with us today to start your journey toward Medicine at Oxford or Cambridge!

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Interview Preparation

Interviews at Oxford and Cambridge are one of the most crucial stages of the admissions process. These interviews are designed to assess your academic potential, critical thinking, and how you approach complex problems. While they can seem daunting, the right preparation will help you showcase your abilities effectively.

Interview Guide
Personal Statement Guide

Writing a personal statement for Oxford and Cambridge is one of the most important steps in your application process. Unlike other universities, Oxbridge places significant emphasis on academic achievements and your passion for the subject you’re applying for. Here are some expert tips to ensure your personal statement captures the attention of admissions tutors.

Personal Statement Guide
International Students

Oxford and Cambridge are two of the most prestigious universities in the world, attracting top students from all over the globe. As an international applicant, you will follow the same admissions process as UK applicants, but there are a few additional considerations that you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and competitive application.

Guide for International Students