Timings with the UCAT

Hello, I started college this year and am doing 3 A-levels( Bio, chem and maths).
I was wondering when I need to apply for the UCAT and when I should start preparing, as I've heard that you shouldn't start too early. I'm panicking a bit about it, even though it is quite a long time away, any help and advice would be much appreciated, thank you!

Usually, you book a date around summer time and the last date you can take it is the middle of September.
You should definitely not start preparing too early, top achievers recommend around 6-8 weeks of revision as any more than this and you will burn out.
Best thing to do now, is focus on your a-levels and ensure you get all A's at least, if you don't you won't have to worry about the UCAT or medicine 😅.
If you have any more questions, I'll give you the best answers I can. 👍️

Thank you so much! My grades themselves are looking good so far but I will definitely keep at it. When finding work experience for example at a care home, is it better to email or go in person, or is it different depending on the actual place? I have done a bit of virtual (and will probably continue to do so) but I want to try to get something in person. Thank you again I really appreciate this

When I volunteered at a hospice, care home for all in palliative care, I emailed them asking for availability and they responded and set me up with a zoom call to talk with the manager there, basically as an interview.
If I were you, I would email them first to ask about volunteering, mention why you are wanting to volunteer there and see what they say.
Usually care homes are not too difficult to get volunteering at and they are obviously good to talk about in your personal statements/interviews.
Good luck!

Hello, I started college this year and am doing 3 A-levels( Bio, chem and maths).
I was wondering when I need to apply for the UCAT and when I should start preparing, as I've heard that you shouldn't start too early. I'm panicking a bit about it, even though it is quite a long time away, any help and advice would be much appreciated, thank you!

People suggested 6-8 weeks but the stark reality is down to individual's ability. My advice, start as early as possible, ie right now, go slowly, understanding the sections and doing questions. Then use the final 8-12weeks before your UCAT to drill in.
This is from my experience with UCAT, unfortunately I did not start early! I would do what I said above if I were to retake UCAT once again.
In the meantime, get your volunteering, work experience and more importantly your YR12 nailed! Time management is very crucial in this academic year.