Applying to access to medicine course whilst sitting my gcse

Hi guys so I’m planning on studying my access course into medicine along side my GCSEs
Will I get accepted into colleges with GCSEs ? If so which colleges should I look into ?

Reply 1

Malonzy gh

Original post by Suggested user

Hi guys so I’m planning on studying my access course into medicine along side my GCSEs
Will I get accepted into colleges with GCSEs ? If so which colleges should I look into ?

It's great that you're planning ahead for your future in medicine! Let’s break this down:

▎1. Studying an Access to Medicine Course Alongside GCSEs

• Access to Medicine courses are typically designed for students who are 19+ and do not have the traditional qualifications (e.g., A-levels) needed to apply to medical school. These courses are usually taken after GCSEs and are not typically studied alongside them.

• If you're still completing your GCSEs, you might want to focus on achieving strong grades in them first, as they are essential for progressing to A-levels or equivalent qualifications (e.g., BTECs, International Baccalaureate).

• If you're under 19, you’ll likely need to take A-levels (or equivalent) in science subjects (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, and sometimes Physics or Maths) to apply for medicine.

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▎2. Getting Accepted into Colleges with GCSEs

• Yes, you can get accepted into colleges with GCSEs, but the type of college and course you can apply to will depend on your GCSE grades.

• Sixth Form Colleges: These typically require 5-6 GCSEs at grades 4-9 (including English, Maths, and Science) to study A-levels or equivalent qualifications.

• Further Education (FE) Colleges: These may offer vocational courses (e.g., BTECs) or Access courses, but Access to Medicine courses are usually for mature students (19+).

• Medical Schools: To apply to medical school, you’ll need A-levels (or equivalent) in science subjects, along with a strong GCSE profile (ideally with grades 7-9 in core subjects like Maths, English, and Sciences).

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▎3. Which Colleges Should You Look Into?

• Sixth Form Colleges: If you’re aiming for A-levels, look for colleges with a strong reputation for science subjects. Examples include:

• Hills Road Sixth Form College (Cambridge)

• Peter Symonds College (Winchester)

• The Manchester College

• Greenhead College (Huddersfield)

• Further Education Colleges: If you’re considering vocational routes, look for colleges offering BTEC Applied Science or similar courses. Examples include:

• City and Islington College (London)

• Newham College (London)

• Birmingham Metropolitan College

• Access to Medicine Courses: If you’re over 19, you can look into Access to HE Diplomas in Medicine at colleges like:

• Lambeth College (London)

• The Manchester College

• Leeds City College

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▎4. Next Steps

• Focus on GCSEs: Aim for high grades (7-9) in Science, Maths, and English, as these are critical for progressing to A-levels or equivalent.

• Research A-levels or BTECs: Most medical schools require A-levels in Chemistry and Biology (or equivalent qualifications like BTEC Applied Science).

• Gain Work Experience: Start gaining relevant experience (e.g., volunteering in healthcare settings) to strengthen your future medical school application.

• Check Entry Requirements: Look at the entry requirements for medical schools you’re interested in to ensure you’re on the right track.

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If you’re still in school, speak to your teachers or a careers advisor for guidance tailored to your situation. Good luck with your GCSEs and your journey toward medicine! 🩺📚