Application Process for MBBS in UK 2026
The application process for MBBS in UK is pretty similar to the admission process of other courses, just with more difficulty. To get into an MBBS in UK, you will have to aim for higher marks than usual in the standardised tests and strictly adhere to all the eligibility requirements as stated by the universities.
The United Kingdom is known for being the world’s oldest and largest educational institution in the world. The state leads in many education programs like engineering, business, medicine, etc. The MBBS in UK is the best program for medical students worldwide. Medical Universities in UK attracted many students globally because of their quality research programs, diverse culture, and professional training.
MBBS in the UK application process is a rigorous, year-long endeavour starting with registration for the UCAT or BMAT exams (May-July) and submission via the UCAS portal by October 15 of the year prior to entry. The key requirements for your MBBS in UK application would be your class 12th marksheet with >90% marks, English proficiency test scores, a strong personal statement indicating your motive of taking this course in UK, reference letters and a few more documents. As an international student, you will need to carry out in-depth research on the medical colleges you want to apply to, what scores and grades you will need, how much tuition fee is required per year, and other things. Here are the basic steps to the UK MBBS Admission process for students.
- MBBS in UK 2026 Highlights
- Why Study MBBS in the UK?
- Eligibility Requirements for MBBS in UK
- Entrance Exam Requirements for MBBS in UK
- Documents Required for MBBS in UK
- MBBS in UK Application Process via UCAS 2026
- Top Medical Colleges in UK in 2026
- Cost of Studying MBBS in UK in 2026
- Application Process for MBBS in UK FAQs
MBBS in UK 2026 Highlights
| Degree Name | MBBS or Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery |
| Course Duration | 5-6 years |
| Course Fees | £30,000–£75,000 per year |
| Entry Tests Required | Subject tests: UCAT, BMAT, NEET Language tests: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo |
| Top Universities | University of Oxford, King's College London, Imperial College London, The University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow |
| Job Prospects | Clinical Research Fellow, Junior Doctor, Neonatal SHO, Medical Advisor, Lecturer, Resident Doctor, Staff Grade Doctor, Microbiology Consultant Clinical Research Physician |
| Average Starting Salary of MBBS Graduates in UK | £36,616 per year |
Why Study MBBS in the UK?
You've made a good decision if you're planning to study a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery or MBBS degree from the UK. You'll be studying in a country which has a long list of highly-ranked universities and colleges including prestigious medical schools. These medical institutes offer high-quality learning through modern technologies and the British degree you'd obtain will be well-acknowledged across the world. This will also help you enhance your resume and increase your job prospects. Students are exposed to diverse medical cases which polishes their understanding of different existing ailments. The majority of medical schools have teachers who have excelled in their fields and have earned a good reputation.
- Students have to spend only 30 hours a week on lectures.
- Huge class size at UK Universities.
- Small team size for better engagement with the students.
- The duration of the MBBS program in the UK is 5 or 6 years.
- A chance to study in the UK and work after completing the MBBS degree.
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Eligibility Requirements for MBBS in UK
Students must complete the age of 18 to join the MBBS program in the UK. Medicine is a very competitive discipline and requires high grades, mainly in science subjects as well as the English language. Chemistry is usually essential and biology scores are often a mandatory requirement.
UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test), GAMSAT and BMAT (Bio Medical Admissions Test) are the popular tests accepted by medical colleges in the UK for admission.
Entrance Exam Requirements for MBBS in UK
Getting into an MBBS in the UK can only be possible if you crack the required exams with flying colours. Check out the details on the exams required for MBBS in UK.
1. Register for BMAT or UCAT
The BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) is a subject-specific admission test taken by applicants to medicine, veterinary, and other related courses. The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) is a part of the selection process for many UK medical and dental colleges to help them choose among the best applicants applying to the course. You must take the BMAT in the year you are applying as BMAT scores are valid only for one year. The test is held in the first week of November, so you should register in advance.
2. Register for IELTS Exam
For MBBS admission, students need to take the IELTS exam. The exam is required to check the communication of the students in the four language skills - listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The exam is conducted by IDP and there are 48 test dates available for the paper-based IELTS exam (4 dates every month). However, the testing dates for online IELTS exam are available throughout the year.
Documents Required for MBBS in UK
- Attested copies of mark sheets of class X and XII or any other diploma
- Academic reference letters from professors, who have taught you most recently
- If you have work experience, then letters of recommendation from the employer/manager, who can comment on your professional abilities
- Statement of Purpose
- Academic Resume/Student CV
- Scores from IELTS/TOEFL/PTE and UCAT/BMAT exams
- Proof of funds showcased by financial documents such as your bank statements
MBBS in UK Application Process via UCAS 2026
Students need to complete the UCAS application. You can also learn how to fill UCAS application form by watching videos. This portal submits your application to the colleges of your choice. The UCAS application form should be complete, accurate and submitted on time, as medical colleges do not accept late applicants. You will be required to include a personal statement and an academic letter of reference. Remember the applications for medical colleges in the UK must be submitted by October a year prior to taking studies.
Step-by-step Application Process for MBBS in UK
Check out the detailed application process for MBBS in UK below.
- Research Medical Schools: Identify your preferred universities by considering factors like course structure, faculty, research opportunities, location and eligibility criteria.
- Prepare for Entrance Exams: There are different standardised tests for students willing to get into the top medical schools in the UK. Check out UCAT, BMAT and GAMSAT and choose the one accepted at your desired university for medical school admissions. .
- Gather Required Documents:
- Academic transcripts: Provide copies of your high school and any undergraduate qualifications.
- Language proficiency test scores: IELTS or TOEFL are commonly accepted.
- Personal statement: Explain your motivation for studying medicine and your relevant experiences.
- References: Obtain letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors.
- Proof of funds: Demonstrate your financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Apply through UCAS: Register on the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) portal and fill out the UCAS form, providing all necessary details and documents. In your UCAS application form for medical universities in the UK, you can apply to up to four universities.
- Interview and Selection: If shortlisted, you may get invited for an interview. Universities invite applicants for an interview only if they believe that you stand a chance of receiving an offer. This could be a face-to-face interview, a video interview, or a multiple-mini interview (MMI). Universities assess your academic qualifications, test scores, personal statement, references and interview performance for this reason.
- Receive Offer or Rejection: If accepted, you will receive an offer of admission. If rejected, you may have the option to appeal or apply to other universities.
After completing the above process, the college/university will contact you if your application is shortlisted. The university will notify you and if selected, they will send the Letter of Acceptance.
Top Medical Colleges in UK in 2026
The 10 best medical schools colleges to study MBBS in the UK in 2026 are given below.
| Top Medical Colleges in the UK in 2026 | |
|---|---|
| University | QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Medicine |
| #2 | |
| University of Cambridge | #5 |
| Imperial College London | #7 |
| UCL | #8 |
| King's College London | #15 |
| The University of Edinburgh | #20 |
| London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine | #21 |
| The University of Manchester | #33 |
| University of Glasgow | #44 |
| Queen Mary University of London | =59 |
Cost of Studying MBBS in UK in 2026
Studying MBBS in the UK in 2026 for international students will cost approximately £30,000–£75,000 per year in tuition fees, with total 5–6 year program costs often exceeding £200,000–£400,000 (roughly ₹2-4.7+ crores). Not to miss the living costs, which might come around in between £10,000 and £15,000 per year.
Application Costs
Students must note that they have to pay fees for the application of qualifying exams like IELTS, NEET, and college application fees. So, here are all the fee details that you need to submit before entering college-
| Particulars |
Cost to Indian Students in INR |
| INR 18,000 |
|
| NEET Exam Fees 2026 |
₹1,700 for General ₹1,600 for OBC-NCL/EWS ₹1,000 for SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender candidates |
| Application Fee |
£28.95 (UCAS Application Fee) |
| Fee for Visa Application |
£524 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge |
£776 |
Related Article:
- Student Guide to the United Kingdom (UK)
- UK Student Visa Guide
- 10 popular UK Scholarships for Indian students
- Part time Work Options in UK for International Students
Application Process for MBBS in UK FAQs
The UCAT exam is generally considered very difficult. It is a high-pressure and competitive computer-based exam designed to test the aptitude of students rather than merely their academic knowledge.
Yes, qualifying for the NEET-UG exam is mandatory for Indian students to study MBBS abroad including UK - if they intend to practice medicine in India later.
As per the National Medical Commission (NMC) regulations and Supreme Court rulings in India, a valid NEET score is important for foreign medical graduates to register and work as doctors in India.
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Comments
(51)
H
a year ago
T
3 years ago
V
3 years ago
F
4 years ago
4 years ago
NEET is not accepted by universities. BMAT or UKCAT is necessary. You can find more info here: Oxford: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/uk/universities/university-of-oxford/courses Cambridge: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/uk/universities/university-of-cambridge/courses
s
4 years ago
Universities in the UK have mainly two supplementary exams i.e. UK CAT and B-MAT Exam. UK CAT is applicable for most of the medical schools in the UK while B-MAT Exam is selective for top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, etc.