Planning a strong application to UK #University to study #Medicine

Considering making an application to study Medicine at a UK university is not a decision which should be taken lightly. The competition for places is stiff and the course itself requires both commitment and resilience as it is full on and challenging. Only the best gain entry and subsequently complete the course. If medicine is definitely the vocational career for you, it is important to make the strongest application possible and prepare well for the interview. Here are just a few pointers to help plan a good application during your sixth form years.

Firstly make sure you are totally dedicated to a career as a doctor. You must have a passion for medicine, excellent communication skills, sensitivity, compassion and cultural awareness, determination in the face of challenge, manual dexterity and heaps of common sense.

Plan work experience. Waiting lists for these opportunities at hospitals can be long so apply early and think creatively about other opportunities to learn relevant skills. For example, gain caring experience through charity or hospice work, St John’s Ambulance or Red Cross or contacting your local GP or small hospital are all relevant. Apply yourself with enthusiasm and commitment to any relevant opportunity and don’t be afraid to tap into personal contacts.

Think how you will demonstrate you have resilience, commitment and determination in the face of challenge and long working hours. Might be through D of E award or trekking in the Amazon, but being able to highlight relevant personality traits and skills is more important than what you actually did.

Consider when during the 1 July to 4 Oct window you will take the UKCAT and/or BMAT tests. Depends on which universities you are applying to and your order of preference as to which you take, when you take them and how you prepare. There are heaps of online resources to support your preparation, once you have decided.

Prepare well for your interviews by researching the method used by each individual university. Some do multi mini interviews, while others do more traditional panel interviews, role play or group discussions.

Next week more details about preparing for a medical interview.

Do you need advice with planning your UCAS application to a UK University to study Medicine? Do you need some coaching and interview practice for a forthcoming interview? Our team of friendly, professional experts look forward to hearing from you. Contact us via our website Practice interviews for Medicine