What is the UCAT?
The UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is a multiple choice admissions test that many medical and dentistry schools use to aid them in their selection process. The aim is see which applicants have the right mental ability and thinking necessary for future healthcare professionals.
The UCAT is a 2 hour exam split up into 5 sections.
Verbal Reasoning
Read passages of information and make appropriate judgements based on them to answer the questions.
Decision Making
Use logic to come to suitable conclusions, analyse arguments and statistical information.
Quantitative Reasoning
Use numerical and mathematical skills to solve problems.
Abstract Reasoning
Identify patterns and sequences in abstract shapes.
Situational Judgement
How would you respond to real-life situations that a doctor may face.
Each section has a specific time limit after which the computer-based test automatically proceeds to the next section, with one minute in between each time to read instructions. For tips on preparing for the UCAT check out our page.
The maximum mark for each section is 900, except for Situational Judgement which works in band system (Band 1-4 being highest to lowest grade). Your final score will be an average out of 900 plus the SJT band.
The UCAT is only one component of our medical school application and universities will use it alongside your grades, personal statement and interview performance. And the cut-off is variable amongst all the medical schools.
Section | Number of questions | Time (minutes) |
Verbal Reasoning | 44 | 21 |
Decision Making | 29 | 31 |
Quantitative Reasoning | 36 | 24 |
Abstract Reasoning | 55 | 13 |
Situational Judgement | 69 | 26 |
Do you need help preparing for your UCAT? Our online tutoring is designed to help you get the best UCAT mark possible.
Personal Statements
UCAT
BMAT
Interviews
Testimonials
Our happy customers.