UCAT Scores for Medical School 2026: What You Need to Get In

By Russell Greenhill

Founder & CEO @ Greenhill Academics

Oxford Master’s Graduate • 8+ Years Tutoring Experience

What do your UCAT scores mean for medical school in 2026?

Your UCAT scores in 2026 determine which medical schools are realistic options and which are a stretch. Because the UCAT is now scored out of 2700 following the removal of Abstract Reasoning, the scoring system is different to anything published before 2025. As a result, old benchmarks no longer apply, which means understanding the current data matters more than ever.

The good news is that even a lower-than-expected UCAT score does not rule out medical school. In fact, strategic university selection, a strong personal statement, and confident interview performance can all compensate. Ultimately, what matters most is matching your score to universities that weight it in a way that works in your favour.

How has the UCAT scoring system changed?

The UCAT Consortium removed Abstract Reasoning because research showed it had lower predictive validity for university success. Moreover, it could be significantly improved through coaching, which means it was a less fair measure of natural aptitude. The remaining three sections therefore focus on skills directly relevant to clinical practice: specifically, interpreting information, making logical decisions, and working with numerical data under pressure.

What UCAT scores do you need for medical school in 2026?

The most reliable reference for UCAT scores in 2026 is the final 2025 data, since this was the first full cycle on the /2700 scale. Overall, the 2025 mean was 1891, based on 41,354 candidates. Specifically, section averages were: Verbal Reasoning 602, Decision Making 628, and Quantitative Reasoning 661.

These figures come from the 2025 final results. However, students sitting the UCAT in summer 2026 for 2027 entry will be ranked against a new cohort. Thresholds shift slightly each year but have remained broadly stable, so use these as a reliable planning benchmark rather than a guarantee.

How do different medical schools use UCAT scores in 2026?

Every medical school weights the UCAT differently. For example, some rank applicants almost entirely by score, while others blend it with GCSEs, predicted grades, or personal statements. Therefore, understanding how each university uses your UCAT score is the single most important factor in choosing where to apply.

Universities with high UCAT requirements

Universities with moderate UCAT requirements

Universities with lower UCAT requirements

University admissions policies can change at short notice. As a result, always verify the latest entry requirements on each medical school’s official website before finalising your UCAS choices. The figures above reflect published data and historical patterns from recent cycles.

What does your SJT band mean for your application?

The Situational Judgement Test produces a band from 1 (best) to 4 (worst). It does not contribute to your score out of 2700. However, it can make or break your application at several universities.

How should you apply strategically with your UCAT score in 2026?

If you scored 2220+ (top 10%)

You are in an excellent position overall. Because your result will carry maximum weight at UCAT-heavy universities, focus on places like Bristol, Newcastle, Southampton, and St Andrews. Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, and UCL are also realistic targets, although these weigh academic performance and interview strongly too. Even so, apply strategically rather than putting all four choices on the most selective programmes.

If you scored 2100 to 2219 (top 20%)

You have strong options at the majority of UK medical schools. For example, Manchester, Birmingham, King’s College London, Edinburgh, and Liverpool are all realistic targets. In addition, include one reach choice and one safer option in your four UCAS places. A score in this bracket means universities with blended scoring (UCAT plus academics) are likely to work particularly well for you.

If you scored around 1891 (average, 50th percentile)

Medical school is still achievable, but only with the right application strategy. Target universities with moderate or lower UCAT thresholds, or those using holistic selection criteria, such as Sheffield (threshold 1800), Edinburgh (minimum 1650), Leicester, and Liverpool. Above all, make sure your personal statement and interview preparation are as strong as possible, because these carry more weight when your UCAT score is mid-range.

If you scored below 1891

In this case, strategic university selection is essential. Focus on medical schools with the lowest UCAT requirements, such as Keele (minimum 1700), Norwich (UEA), Plymouth, and Leicester. Ensure every other element of your application is strong, because work experience, personal statement, and interview performance all matter more when the UCAT is not your strongest component. Alternatively, a gap year and retake is also an option, since you can only sit the UCAT once per application cycle.

What else do medical schools look at beyond UCAT scores in 2026?

Your UCAT score is one component of a larger picture. In addition to the test, medical schools also consider academic achievement (typically AAA or above at A-Level), the quality of your personal statement, work experience in healthcare or caring roles, and interview performance. Most universities use MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) formats that assess communication, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving. Consequently, a strong UCAT score opens doors, but thorough interview preparation is what turns an invitation into an offer.

Meet some of our medical school tutors

Finlay

Finlay studies Medicine at the University of Oxford, where he earned a First Class BA in Medical Sciences and placed 12th in his year. He achieved four A*s at A-Level. Finlay specialises in UCAT preparation, medical school applications, and interview coaching. Because he is currently studying medicine at one of the most selective programmes in the country, he brings up-to-date insight into what admissions tutors look for.

Morgan

Morgan read Chemistry at Jesus College, Oxford, graduating with First Class Honours and an academic scholarship. He also achieved three A*s at A-Level and nine grade 9s at GCSE. Morgan is particularly effective at helping students strengthen the science foundations that medical school applications require, and at preparing for university-level admissions processes.

Ready to turn your UCAT score into an offer?

Whether you are preparing for the UCAT in summer 2026 or need help choosing where to apply after receiving your results, our tutors can help. They have studied at Oxford and Cambridge, so they understand how medical school admissions work from the inside. As a result, they can guide you through UCAT preparation, university selection, personal statements, and interview coaching. Get in touch and we will match you with the right tutor for your goals.

Frequently asked questions

SJT bands, retaking, and timing

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