Study Medicine in the UK as an International Student
While studying medicine, you will not only broaden your understanding of human biology, but you’ll also develop research techniques and practical medical skills. An undergraduate degree in medicine will typically take between five and six years to complete.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS), the country’s publicly funded healthcare system, provides free care to UK citizens at the point of use. This is typically where UK medical students will carry out their training and work experience throughout their degree.
Medicine is one of the most competitive educational fields you can choose to study. Becoming a doctor also has one of the longest training periods of any profession, but studying medicine in the UK can be incredibly rewarding – with a wide variety of specialisms to be explored and a highly-paid, dynamic career to be pursued.
Where can you study medicine in the UK?
Nearly 10% of students studying medicine in the UK are international students, with over 70% of all UK medical students studying full-time. So if you’re looking to study medicine in the UK as an international student, you won’t be alone.
There are some of the world’s most highly respected medical schools in the UK. The best medical universities in the UK for international students will offer you all the support you need throughout your course.
Browse places to study medicine in the UKWhat are the requirements to study medicine in the UK?
To study medicine in the UK, you will need to have previously studied both chemistry and biology at school, achieving top grades in both subjects. Many universities will also prefer you to have also studied an additional science-related subject such as physics or mathematics.
You might also need to complete an entrance exam to study medicine in the UK, such as the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) or the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT). Your verbal and written English language skills will also need to be very strong.
Find out more about studying in the UK Find out more about applying for UK universities
