Below are some of the most common questions about the UKCAT. You can also download a comprehensive list of FAQs in our Free Downloads section.
If your question is not answered below, please Contact Us.
What is the UKCAT?
The UKCAT is the UK Clinical Aptitude Test. The test helps universities to select candidates from the many highly-qualified applicants they receive for medical and dental degree programmes.
What skills / subjects does the UKCAT test?
The UKCAT is designed to assess a candidate’s mental abilities. The majority of the exam tests critical thinking, verbal and mathematical skills. In 2012, unlike in previous years, the UKCAT also includes a Situational Judgement section, but this section does not contribute to your final score.
Do I need to take the UKCAT?
The UKCAT is required for entry to a medical or dental degree at the following universities:
| Aberdeen University Barts and The London School of Medicine Brighton and Sussex Cardiff University Dundee University Durham University East Anglia University Edinburgh University Glasgow University Hull York Medical School Imperial College London Leeds University Leicester University |
Manchester University Newcastle University Nottingham University Oxford (graduate only) Peninsular college of Medicine & Dentistry Queen’s University of Belfast Sheffield University Southampton University St. Andrew’s University St George’s London Warwick University (graduate only) |
What is the format of the UKCAT test?
The UKCAT takes 2 hours, and is a computer-based test consisting of five sections:
Section 1 – Verbal Reasoning
Section 2 – Quantitative Reasoning
Section 3 – Abstract Reasoning
Section 4 – Decision Analysis
Section 5 - Situational Judgement
When should I take the UKCAT?
If you are applying in 2012 for entry to university in 2013 (or deferred entry in 2014) then you should sit the UKCAT by 5th October 2012.
The UKCAT test is available between 3rd July and 5th October 2012. The deadline for registration is 21st September 2012.
Where do I take the UKCAT?
UKCAT tests are conducted at Pearson VUE test centres. When you register to take the test, you will choose the test centre you wish to visit. We advise students to register early, as test dates fill up quickly.
Is there a fee for sitting the UKCAT test?
The fee for UK/EU Residents is £65 up to the 31st of August. From the 1st of September, the fee is £80. The fee for test centres outside the EU is £100.
When will I receive my score?
Results are released to candidates when they exit the testing room on the day of their test.
How important is a high UKCAT score?
Your UKCAT score will form part of your application along with your UCAS Personal Statement, predicted A-Level exams, AS level results and Admissions Interview. A high UKCAT score will ensure that you are submitting the best possible application and can really make you stand out from other candidates.
I’m not happy with my score, can I re-sit?
You are only permitted to take the UKCAT test once in each application year.
