Which medical school should I apply to 2026

Hi, I am applying to start medicine in 2026 and would love some advice on which unis to apply to with my results!

10A* at GCSE
Predicted 4A* at A-Level (I dropped english lit so am doing maths, bio, chem)
I was disappointed with my UCAT- I got 2010 b2 (about 2700 last year- looks like it will be 7th decile)
Volunteer and part-time job in nursing home
Work experience in hospital and GP surgery

I really wanted to go to Edinburgh but am thinking that my UCAT is too low, especially as I am from NI not Scotland- do you think there is any point in applying?
I would also consider St Andrews, Dundee, Newcastle and Glasgow- do you think my UCAT is also too low for these unis?

Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you :smile:

Reply 1

Uni of Southampton Students

Official Rep

Original post

by eanderson!!2

Hi, I am applying to start medicine in 2026 and would love some advice on which unis to apply to with my results!
10A* at GCSE
Predicted 4A* at A-Level (I dropped english lit so am doing maths, bio, chem)
I was disappointed with my UCAT- I got 2010 b2 (about 2700 last year- looks like it will be 7th decile)
Volunteer and part-time job in nursing home
Work experience in hospital and GP surgery
I really wanted to go to Edinburgh but am thinking that my UCAT is too low, especially as I am from NI not Scotland- do you think there is any point in applying?
I would also consider St Andrews, Dundee, Newcastle and Glasgow- do you think my UCAT is also too low for these unis?
Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you :smile:

Hi! First of all, well done for your GCSEs, predicted A-levels, and healthcare experience are fantastic and show real dedication.

I know your UCAT score wasn’t what you hoped for, but have you considered the University of Southampton? It could be a strong option. They don’t rely fully on UCAT. they look at your academics, experience, and personal qualities too.

What’s especially great about Southampton is their early clinical exposure starting from year one, which really helps students develop confidence and patient skills from the start. The course also balances science and clinical learning very well, and students benefit from teaching in one of the UK’s leading university hospitals.

Your experience in a nursing home will also resonate well with Southampton’s values. They really appreciate applicants who show compassion, communication skills, and a strong understanding of patient care. If you’re open to it, I’d definitely encourage you to take a closer look at Southampton. It might be a great fit for your strengths and passion for medicine.

Let me know if you’d like help understanding University of Southampton more specifically,I’m here to help anytime.

Best wishes
Junfan student ambassador

Reply 2

omcenally

Original post

by eanderson!!2

Hi, I am applying to start medicine in 2026 and would love some advice on which unis to apply to with my results!
10A* at GCSE
Predicted 4A* at A-Level (I dropped english lit so am doing maths, bio, chem)
I was disappointed with my UCAT- I got 2010 b2 (about 2700 last year- looks like it will be 7th decile)
Volunteer and part-time job in nursing home
Work experience in hospital and GP surgery
I really wanted to go to Edinburgh but am thinking that my UCAT is too low, especially as I am from NI not Scotland- do you think there is any point in applying?
I would also consider St Andrews, Dundee, Newcastle and Glasgow- do you think my UCAT is also too low for these unis?
Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you :smile:

Aberdeen and Nottingham might be a good choice with your UCAT, I have friends who got about the same as you and got into those unis for 2025 entry. Nottingham gives you points for your GCSEs not only your UCAT so with your good set of GCSEs I reckon you could get an interview!