Studying medicine in the UK is extremely competitive, and strict entry requirements must be met before you find a place at one of the top medical colleges in the UK. However, a career in medicine and healthcare is gratifying, and medicine graduates from the UK can pursue many different professions with great employability prospects anywhere in the world.
Entry standards for studying medicine at the best medical colleges in the UK are exacting and require top grades (triple A’s for undergraduate level) with chemistry and biology study. Along with a minimum IELTS score of 7.0, UK medical schools need students to clear a clinical aptitude test (UKCAT) and an interview for admission. Relevant work experience is a significant advantage.
A medicine degree generally spans six years, with the first three years focusing on pre-clinical studies and the latter three years on clinical studies. During the pre-clinical years, students learn about the core scientific knowledge and skills needed to become a medical professional, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and pharmacology. Based on the Guardian University Rankings 2024, the best UK universities for medicine are listed below.
Top 10 UK Universities for Medicine
1. University of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen’s medicine programme is structured to give students a thorough understanding of medical sciences and the disease processes underlying medicine. In year 1, students commence the Foundations of Primary Care Course (FPC) and the first 4-week Student Selected Component (SSC) involving project-based group work. The course continues into year 2, where students take a second 4-week SSC focusing on molecular mechanisms of disease. Students gain experience through weekly clinical attachments in different clinical areas and disciplines.
The Study of Systems and Foundations of Primary Care course concludes in year 3, where students can choose to study Medical Humanities in their SSC. Year 4 is dedicated to developing clinical reasoning, diagnostic, and management skills in different clinical areas, and students undertake seven six-week clinical blocks. The course also covers horizontal themes such as diagnostics, end-of-life care, health data science, quality improvement, and the cost and value of healthcare. The degree concludes in year 5, where students complete Student Assistantships to learn what is required post-graduation as a foundation doctor.
- Suggested course: Medicine, MBChB
- Entry requirements: Standard XII has a minimum percentage of 75% overall and 80% in English at Standard XII and English language proficiency tests through IELTS.
- International fees: £50,100 (₹52.44 Lakhs)
2. University of Cambridge
The Medicine (MB, BChir) at the University of Cambridge is one of the most popular medical courses in the UK and the world. Students learn core scientific knowledge and skills in the first two years, including anatomy, physiology, molecular biology, neurobiology, and medical ethics. They also participate in patient care through clinical visits in general practices and hospitals. In the third year, students can specialise in one of a range of subjects, including biological and biomedical sciences, non-core science subjects, or natural sciences.
In the final three years of the programme, students participate in clinical placements in hospitals and GP practices throughout the East of England, building on their biomedical education and developing their clinical skills in communication, patient investigation, practical procedures, patient management, and diagnostic reasoning. The course also emphasises professionalism, patient safety, and improving health, with weekly small-group clinical supervision with junior doctors to monitor progress.
- Suggested course: Medicine (MB, BChir)
- Entry requirements: A Level: A*A*A; IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level and English language requirements
- International fees: £67,194 (₹70.33 Lakhs)
3. University of St Andrews
The six-year BSc (Hons) in Medicine at St Andrews combines academic study with clinical experience to train students to become competent doctors. It provides in-depth coverage of the central nervous and endocrine systems, explores diseases and possible therapies, presents case studies, and utilises cadaveric dissection and radiology. It also integrates ethical issues and behavioural science with clinical medicine and offers hospital clinical attachments.
Additionally, the degree includes a module that gives a general overview of the structure and functions of the body systems, covering microbiology, public health, and health psychology. It reviews molecular and cellular medicine, introduces medical ethics and communication skills, includes an anatomical overview of the major body systems and dissection of the back, and provides opportunities to speak to patients with chronic health problems.
- Suggested course: Medicine BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: A-Levels, IB scores, and English language proficiency test through IELTS
- International fees: £36,990 (₹38.71 Lakhs)
4. Swansea University
Swansea University is consistently ranked at the top for medical degrees in the UK, offering a compelling education experience for international students. Swansea Medical College was founded in 2004, rising rapidly in reputation and rankings in national and international league tables. Swansea University's strong partnerships with local health boards and hospitals provide students with over 1,000 clinical placement opportunities each year, enhancing their practical skills and readiness for clinical practice. Upon graduation, students benefit from excellent career prospects, with a high percentage securing foundation training posts and progressing to successful careers in various medical specialities.
- Suggested course: Medicine (Graduate Entry), MBBCH
- Entry requirements: Standard entry grades: AAA, Minimum entry grades: AAB. These grades must include Chemistry and one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics.
- International fees: £43,850 (₹45.89 Lakhs)
5. University of Edinburgh
MBChB Medicine at the University of Edinburgh prepares students for a medical career. The first two years focus on biomedicine, social and ethical aspects of medicine, research, and evidence-based medicine. Students will develop practical, research, and clinical skills and learn about homeostasis, health promotion, and statistical reasoning.
In year three, students will enter an honours programme to obtain a Bachelor of Medical Sciences degree, where they will study a scientific discipline in-depth and gain research experience. In year four, students will examine all aspects of clinical medicine and healthcare delivery, with placements in hospitals and general practice. Year five involves further clinical placements in a range of disciplines, as well as a group research project. In year six, students will consolidate their learning and work on an apprenticeship model to prepare for employment in the postgraduate Foundation programme.
- Suggested course: MBChB Medicine
- Entry requirements: SQA Highers: AAAAA by the end of S5 and BB at Advanced Higher in S6; A Levels: A*AA; IB: 40 points with 766 at HL (7 in Chemistry) and English language test
- International fees: £37,500 (₹39.25 Lakhs)
6. Keele University
Students seeking a top-tier medical education should consider Keele University's MBChB program, which has a long-standing reputation for excellence. Keele's medical school consistently ranks among the top in the UK, with impressive figures showcasing its success. Keele boasts a high employability rate for graduates, with 95% of students entering employment or further study within six months of graduation, according to the DLHE Survey 2021. The MBChB program at Keele offers a well-rounded curriculum, combining theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical experience. Keele's strong emphasis on practical learning is evident through its partnerships with over 200 healthcare providers, offering students ample clinical placements and hands-on training opportunities.
- Suggested course: MBChB Medicine
- Entry requirements: A Level grades A*AA
- International fees: £45,100 per year (₹47.20 Lakhs)
7. Imperial College London
Imperial College London's MBBS is a six-year course that trains students to become competent and confident doctors. It combines rigorous academic study with extensive clinical experience, giving students the knowledge and skills they need to provide high-quality patient care. The degree focuses on developing foundational scientific knowledge, including anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, and practical skills, such as clinical examination and communication. Students also have the opportunity to learn about healthcare systems, medical ethics, and public health.
The degree at the London MBBS University is dedicated to clinical training, where students will work alongside experienced doctors and healthcare professionals in hospitals and community settings. This training allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting and gain valuable experience in diagnosing and treating patients.
- Suggested course: Medicine MBBS/BSc
- Entry requirements: AAA - with A in Biology, A in Chemistry, A in a third subject and an English language proficiency test through IELTS
- International fees: £53,700 per year (approx) (₹56.20 Lakhs)
8. University of Oxford
Oxford’s medical school, consistently ranked among the top globally, offers an unrivalled blend of tradition, cutting-edge research, and clinical excellence. Students aiming for perfection in medical education should consider the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (BM BCh) program at the University of Oxford, one of the world's most prestigious and oldest universities. Oxford's global alumni network and its reputation for excellence open various career opportunities worldwide, making it an attractive option for Indian students aspiring to stand out in the highly competitive field of medicine.
- Suggested course: (BM BCh) Medicine
- Entry requirements: A-Levels - A*AA, IB scores, and an English language proficiency test through IELTS
- International fees: £43,670 (₹45.71 Lakhs)
9. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow offers academic excellence and innovative medical training. Founded in 1451, it is the fourth-oldest university in the English-speaking world, allowing students to be part of a rich historical legacy. The University of Glasgow's Medical School is ranked in the top 50 globally for Medicine according to QS World University Rankings by Subject, showcasing its international reputation for excellence in teaching and research. The University of Glasgow invests heavily in its facilities; for instance, the £32 million Wolfson Medical School Building offers the latest learning environments, including simulated wards and operating rooms, to enhance clinical skills training.
The university has partnerships with several hospitals and general practices across the west of Scotland, ensuring various clinical placements. This hands-on approach aids in developing not only clinical skills but also understanding the diverse healthcare needs of different communities. The University of Glasgow boasts a vibrant, multicultural campus community with over 30,000 students from over 140 countries.
- Suggested course: MBChB Medicine
- Entry requirements: A-Levels - A*AA, IB scores, and an English language proficiency test through IELTS
- International fees: £56,520 (₹59.16 Lakhs)
10. Brighton and Sussex Medical School
Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), a partnership between the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex, offers an exceptional environment for Indian students pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (BM BS) degree. Established in 2003, BSMS has quickly risen to prominence within the UK and internationally, known for its innovative curriculum and intense focus on patient-centred care.
Brighton and Sussex Medical School represents a compelling choice for Indian students due to its high student satisfaction rates, excellent research output, early clinical exposure, and supportive, diverse community. BSMS offers a dynamic learning environment where students engage in early clinical exposure, starting from the first year. The school's strong connections with local NHS trusts facilitate the hands-on approach, providing students with diverse clinical placements across the South East of England.
- Suggested course: BMBS Medicine
- Entry requirements: A-Levels - A*AA, IB scores, and an English language proficiency test through IELTS with a score of 7.0
- International fees: £42,000 per year (₹43.96 Lakhs)
Study Medicine in the UK
Are you interested in studying medicine in the UK? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India to learn more about courses and entry requirements.