UK medical schools require students to sit either the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) or the Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT) prior to application. Whilst a significantly larger number of Universities require the UKCAT, many students will opt to sit both tests in order to increase the number of courses they could potentially apply for. A list of courses requiring BMAT can be found here, whilst a list of courses requiring UKCAT can be found here.
UKCAT Test Format
The UKCAT is a two-hour computer-based test. It consists of five separately timed subtests (Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Situational Judgement) which assess a range of mental abilities identified by university medical and dental schools as important. Each subtest contains a number of items in a multiple-choice format.
Candidates either sit the standard UKCAT or the UKCATSEN (Special Educational Needs) if they are entitled to additional time due to a documented medical condition or disability.
BMAT Test Format
The BMAT exam is comprised of three sections to be completed in two hours:
- Section 1 – Aptitude and Skills: 35 multiple-choice questions, 60 Minutes, Maximum Score: 9.0
- Section 2 – Scientific Knowledge and Applications: 27 multiple-choice questions, 30 Minutes, Maximum Score: 9.0
- Section 3 – Writing Task: 1 Essay out of a choice of 4, Maximum Score: 5A
The BMAT examination is unlike any which students would have faced to date, requiring extensive preparation and a unique approach.
We can help students to prepare for both the UKCAT or the BMAT tests.
We would typically recommend a course of 10 hours of tuition for the tests, which can be carried out either face-to-face or online via Skype.