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BMAT Section Guide 2024
Important update (2026): the BMAT has been discontinued. Its final sitting was in October 2023 and there has been no BMAT exam since 2024. Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing scrapped the test because it was costly and difficult to run. Every university that previously required the BMAT, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Leeds, Lancaster and Brighton & Sussex, now uses the UCAT instead. If you are applying for medicine or dentistry, you should prepare for the UCAT, not the BMAT.
The UCAT is now the single admissions test used by almost all UK medical and dental schools. It changed substantially for 2025 entry: Abstract Reasoning was removed, so the UCAT now has four subtests (Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning and the Situational Judgement Test), and the three cognitive subtests are scored on a combined scale out of 2700 (no longer 3600). For everything you need, read our Ultimate UCAT Guide and the full UCAT 2025 changes breakdown.
The historical detail below explains what the three old BMAT sections (Section 1, Section 2 and Section 3) used to involve, for reference and context. None of this is examinable any more. To prepare for the test that actually matters in 2026, visit our UCAT Guides revision hub and practise on the UCAT online question bank.
BMAT Sections & BMAT Tips 2023
For historical reference: the BMAT used to have three sections (Section 1, Section 2 and Section 3). This is no longer a live exam, so the summaries below are kept only as background context.
Below we will outline each section and provide some BMAT section tips to help get you started on your BMAT preparation.
Note: these sections no longer exist. If you are mapping old BMAT skills onto the UCAT, BMAT Section 1 problem solving and critical thinking now map most closely to UCAT Decision Making and Verbal Reasoning, while BMAT Section 2 science is not directly tested in the UCAT at all. Start instead with our guide to what the UCAT is.
BMAT Section 1 Guide 2023
Section 1 of the BMAT is 60 minutes long and contains 32 multiple-choice questions.
It assesses two key domains:
- BMAT Problem Solving
- BMAT Critical Thinking.
Most people believe that this is the hardest BMAT section.
This section is divided into 16 BMAT problem-solving questions and 16 BMAT critical thinking questions. Both are interspersed with each other. Generally, the questions will come in increasing difficulty.
BMAT Section 1 Scoring - this is out of 9, and each question is worth the same.
How To Do Well in BMAT Section 1 Tips
Section 1 is generally accepted as being very difficult to revise - most of the questions, as you will see, are a combination of mental maths or visualisation questions. This requires more practice of the technique, rather than revision.
Therefore, our material in this first section is heavily focused on the practice of the core principles and techniques, which you will then be able to apply to any question that you face. Each question has been designed to teach you a specific technique or skill, so focus on each with your maximum ability. Our BMAT Courses help to delineate these different questions, and our 1-1 BMAT tutoring will help you to master BMAT Section 1.
BMAT Section 1 Tips
- Understand the question types: The Problem Solving section of the BMAT consists of multiple-choice questions that test your mathematical and logical problem-solving skills. The Critical Thinking section of the BMAT has multiple-choice questions that test your ability to interpret, analyze, and evaluate written information. Familiarise yourself with the different question types that are used in this section of the exam.
- Review the basics: Make sure you have a good understanding of the key mathematical and scientific concepts that are covered in the Problem Solving section of the exam. For the Critical Thinking section, familiarise yourself with the concepts and principles of critical thinking, such as logic, argumentation, and inference.
- Practice, practice, practice: The best way to prepare for the BMAT is to practice as much as possible. Use past papers and sample questions to get a feel for the types of questions that are asked in these sections of the exam, and try to complete them under timed conditions to simulate the real test.
- Manage your time effectively: The Problem Solving and Critical Thinking sections of the BMAT are 60 minutes in total and you'll need to manage your time wisely in order to complete all the questions. Make sure you pace yourself and try to answer the easier questions first so you have more time for the more challenging ones.
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BMAT Section 2 Guide 2023
The BMAT Section 2 tests four key domains:
BMAT Mathematics
BMAT Biology
- The BMAT biology topics that you must know are outlined in the 2023 BMAT Section 2 assumed knowledge guide and the specification.
- Some topics come more frequently in the BMAT every year - these are all covered as part of the bmat section 2 assumed subject knowledge.
- These are topics such as Mendelian genetics and the kidney
BMAT Chemistry
BMAT Physics
- There are several BMAT Physics equations and bmat physics questions that we recommend that you learn.
- These can be found by completing the BMAT Section 2 Past Papers and BMAT section 2 practice questions on our website.
- BMAT physics equations to learn in 2023:
- Voltage (V) = Current (I) x Resistance (R)
- Voltage(V) = Work done (J) / Charge (C)
- Current (A) = Charge (C) / Time (s)
- Resistance in Series: RTotal = R1 + R2
- Resistance in Parallel: 1/RTotal = 1/R1 + 1/R2
- Density = Mass/Volume
- Energy = mass x specific heat capacity x change in temperature = mcฮT
- Percentage efficiency = useful output total input x 100
- Angle of incidence = angle of reflection
- Potential energy = mass x acceleration due to gravity x height
- Momentum = mass x velocity
- Force = mass x acceleration
- Speed = Distance / Time
We would recommend you go through the entire guide, focusing initially more on topics that you have not previously encountered.
BMAT Section 2 Tips
1. Science
Section 2 is primarily focused on GSCE science, along with some of the more simple concepts of A-Level and extra-curricular sciences. Although this is relatively simple memorisation, it requires effort and preparation to succeed.
2. Common Topics
The biology tested in Section 2 of the BMAT is basic recall and memorising, such as the location of certain cellular structures or the function of certain biological features; the most common topics asked are genetics, the anatomy of the human body, and the kidneys.
The maths, chemistry and physics bmat questions usually require calculations, which will be discussed in the relevant section. The chemistry sections normally require calculations for mole equations.
3. Scientific Context
Use your knowledge of science in context: The questions in the scientific knowledge and applications section of the BMAT are designed to test your ability to apply scientific concepts to real-world situations. Make sure you understand the context of each question, and use your knowledge of science to come up with a logical and well-reasoned response.
4. Time management
Manage your time effectively: Section 2 of the BMAT is a 30-minute exam, and you'll need to manage your time wisely in order to complete all the questions. Make sure you pace yourself, and try to answer the easier questions first so you have more time for the more challenging ones.
BMAT Section 3 Questions and Tips
The section 3 BMAT essay questions can be difficult. They will often provide three choices of essays, with each essay choice being accompanied by three bullet points that have to be included within your essay.
You must practice your BMAT essay questions before the exam. Planning is everything! A good plan helps keep your BMAT essay question flowing, relevant and full of interesting information.
Our BMAT Courses help to delineate these BMAT essays, and our 1-1 BMAT tutoring will help you to master BMAT Section 3.
Key Tips For BMAT Section 3
1. Understand the question
The essay section of the BMAT consists of a prompt that asks you to write a short essay on a specific topic related to the medical and health sciences. Make sure you carefully read the prompt and understand what's being asked of you before you start writing.
2. Plan your response
Before you start writing your essay, take a few minutes to plan your response. Identify the key points you want to make, and organize them in a logical and coherent way. This will help you stay focused and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from beginning to end.
3. Use evidence to support your points
The essay section of the BMAT is not a creative writing exercise, and it's important to use evidence to support your points. Use examples, data, and research to back up your claims, and make sure you cite your sources properly.
4. Use clear and concise language
The essay section of the BMAT is a 30-minute exam, and you'll need to be efficient with your use of language in order to complete the task in the allotted time. Use clear and concise language, and avoid unnecessary words or convoluted sentences.
5. Edit and proofread your essay
Before you submit your essay, make sure you take the time to edit and proofread it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure your essay is well-written and easy to understand.
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BMAT Section 3 Tips & BMAT Essay Examples
The BMAT Section 3 essay is 30 minutes long and we recommend you spend 15 minutes planning the essay, with the rest of the time spent writing.
The UCAT has no essay component. The closest thing to BMAT Section 3 is the UCAT Situational Judgement Test, which is scored in bands rather than as an essay. For full timings and structure of the current test, see our UCAT Guides hub.
Provided that you address all the points requested in the section brief, you will almost certainly guarantee yourself a minimum score of 3/5 - more information on this can be found in Section 3.
BMAT Section 3 Mark Scheme
BMAT Section 3 marking criteria
BMAT Essay Marking quality of content
Has the candidate addressed the question in the way demanded?
Have they organised their thoughts?
Have they used their general knowledge and opinions appropriately?
Scores are awarded on a scale from 1 to 5.
Score 1
An answer that has some bearing on the question but which does not address the question in the way demanded is incoherent or unfocused.
Score 2
An answer that addresses most of the components of the question and is arranged in a reasonably logical way. There may be significant elements of confusion in the argument. The candidate may misconstrue certain important aspects of the main proposition or its implication or may provide an unconvincing or weak counter proposition.
Score 3
A reasonably well-argued answer that addresses ALL aspects of the question, making reasonable use of the material provided and generating a reasonable counterproposition or argument. The argument is relatively rational. There may be some weakness in the force of the argument or the coherence of the ideas, or some aspect of the argument may have been overlooked.
Score 4
A good answer with few weaknesses. ALL aspects of the question are addressed, making good use of the material and generating a good counter proposition or argument. The argument is rational. Ideas are expressed and arranged coherently, with a balanced consideration of the proposition and counter proposition.
Score 5
An excellent answer with no significant weaknesses. ALL aspects of the question are addressed, making excellent use of the material and generating an excellent counter proposition or argument. The argument is cogent. Ideas are expressed clearly and logically, considering a breadth of relevant points and leading to a compelling synthesis or conclusion. An answer judged to be irrelevant, trivial, unintelligible or missing should be given a score of 0.
BMAT Essay Marking Criteria - the quality of English
In arriving at your score, you should consider: Have they expressed themselves using concise, compelling and correct English? Scores are awarded on a scale from A to E.
Band A - Good use of English.
- fluent
- good sentence structure
- good use of vocabulary
- sound use of grammar
- good spelling and punctuation
- few slips or errors
Band C - Reasonably clear use of English. There may be some weakness in the effectiveness of the English. reasonably fluent/not difficult to read
- simple/unambiguous sentence structure
- fair range and appropriate use of vocabulary
- acceptable grammar
- reasonable spelling and punctuation
- some slips/errors
Band E - Rather weak use of English.
- hesitant fluency/not easy to follow at times
- some flawed sentence structure/paragraphing
- limited range of vocabulary
- faulty grammar
- regular spelling/punctuation errors
- regular and frequent slips or errors
Where candidates have crossed out sections or added information, the essay should be judged on the quality of the resulting use of English (i.e. crossed-out text ignored, and inserted text read as if it were originally in place). An essay that is judged to be below the level of an E will receive an X.
BMAT Specification 2023
The BMAT Specification can be found here.
This is a great place to start when planning your revision, as you can quickly identify which topics are more useful than others, before proceeding. This is especially important for the BMAT Section 2 specification.
Please use this in conjunction with the assumed knowledge guide to help guide your revision and ensure that you are still on track. Our BMAT Courses help to delineate these subjects, and our 1-1 BMAT tutoring will help you to master the BMAT.
BMAT Assumed Knowledge Guide
Technically, "assumed knowledge" implies that little further information is needed to answer questions - however, from experience, we know that this isn't often true! This acts as the BMAT syllabus for you to use for your preparation.
While the admissions testing service tends to recommend revisiting your GCSE science and maths textbooks, they have since published a large textbook detailing all of the assumed knowledge that you would be expected to have.
Please find the Section 2 BMAT Assumed Knowledge Guide PDF here. It helps to provide an overview of the scientific and mathematical knowledge that BMAT section 2 questions can draw on.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the BMAT still exist in 2026?
No. The BMAT has been discontinued. Its last sitting was in October 2023 and there has been no BMAT exam since 2024. Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing scrapped the test because it was expensive and logistically difficult to run. You cannot sit the BMAT for any 2026 or 2027 entry application, so there is no point preparing for it.
What replaced the BMAT?
The UCAT replaced the BMAT. Every university that previously required the BMAT, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Leeds, Lancaster and Brighton & Sussex, now uses the UCAT as their admissions test. If you are applying for medicine or dentistry in the UK, the UCAT is now effectively the single test you need to prepare for.
What were the BMAT sections?
The BMAT had three sections. Section 1 (Aptitude and Skills) tested problem solving and critical thinking. Section 2 (Scientific Knowledge and Applications) covered GCSE-level biology, chemistry, physics and maths. Section 3 was a 30-minute written essay marked for content (1 to 5) and quality of English (A to E). None of these are examined any more, since the BMAT no longer runs.
Why was the BMAT cancelled?
Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing announced that 2023 would be the final year of the BMAT, citing the cost and logistical difficulty of running the paper-based exam. The decision was made for operational reasons rather than because of any problem with the test content, and universities responded by moving to the UCAT instead.
Do Oxford and Cambridge still use the BMAT?
No. Both Oxford and Cambridge dropped the BMAT and confirmed in Spring 2024 that medicine applicants now sit the UCAT instead, from 2025 entry onwards. This means all of the historically BMAT-only medical schools now use the same admissions test as the rest of the UK, the UCAT.
Is there a BMAT in 2025 or 2026?
No. There was no BMAT in 2024, 2025 or 2026, and none is planned. Searches for the BMAT 2025 or BMAT 2026 reflect outdated information from before the test was withdrawn. For current applications you should register for and prepare for the UCAT, which is now used by almost all UK medical and dental schools.
Is the UCAT harder than the BMAT was?
They are different rather than simply harder or easier. The BMAT included a science section and an essay, which the UCAT does not. The UCAT is a timed, computer-based aptitude test of verbal reasoning, decision making, quantitative reasoning and situational judgement. Most students find the UCAT's extreme time pressure the biggest challenge, so practice under timed conditions is essential.
How many sections does the UCAT have now?
The UCAT has four subtests for 2025 entry onwards: Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning and the Situational Judgement Test. Abstract Reasoning was removed in the 2025 overhaul. The three cognitive subtests are scored on a combined scale out of 2700 (it used to be out of 3600), and the SJT is reported separately in bands 1 to 4.
I revised for the old BMAT. Does any of it help with the UCAT?
Some skills transfer. BMAT Section 1 problem solving and critical thinking overlap with UCAT Decision Making and Verbal Reasoning, and any timed practice builds useful exam stamina. However, BMAT Section 2 science and the Section 3 essay have no UCAT equivalent, so you should switch your revision over to UCAT-specific resources and question banks rather than reusing old BMAT material.
What was the BMAT specification and assumed knowledge guide?
The BMAT specification and assumed knowledge guide set out the GCSE-level biology, chemistry, physics and maths content that Section 2 could draw on. Because the BMAT no longer runs, these documents are now historical only. The UCAT does not test scientific knowledge, so there is no equivalent science specification to revise for the UCAT.
Which universities used to require the BMAT?
The main BMAT universities included Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, the University of Leeds, Lancaster University and Brighton & Sussex Medical School. Every one of these has now switched to the UCAT. You can compare their current entry requirements and admissions tests on our UK medical schools ranking hub.
How do I prepare now that the BMAT is gone?
Focus entirely on the UCAT. Start with our Ultimate UCAT Guide to learn the format, read the UCAT 2025 changes article, then revise each subtest using the UCAT Guides hub and practise on our online question bank. Booking timed mock exams and reviewing your weakest subtest are the highest-value preparation activities.
Do any UK medical schools still not require an admissions test?
A small number of routes, such as some graduate-entry or foundation pathways, have different requirements, but for standard undergraduate medicine and dentistry the UCAT is now near-universal following the BMAT's withdrawal. Always check each university's current entry requirements directly, as policies can change year to year. Our medical schools hub is a useful starting point.
Was there a BMAT calculator or score conversion tool?
Section 1 and Section 2 of the BMAT were scored on a 1 to 9 scale and Section 3 used a numeric plus letter grade, so some applicants looked for BMAT score calculators. These are now obsolete. The relevant modern tool is the UCAT score calculator, which converts UCAT raw marks to scaled scores out of 2700.
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