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Application Guide 2025:
UCAS
Applying to Medicine in the UK from the UAE in 2025
Dr. Akash Gandhi
Medicine Admissions Expert
Introduction
Thinking of applying to the UK from the UAE? Find out everything you need to know by our ultimate team of tutors and experts. As an aspiring medical student from the UAE, you have a wealth of options when it comes to selecting a medical school.
The United Kingdom has long been a beacon for medical education, attracting ambitious students from across the globe, including the UAE. With a streamlined 5-year study-to-graduation path and world-renowned institutions, it presents a compelling alternative to local options.
This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for UAE students, from acing the UCAT in Dubai to understanding NHS values for your interview.
In this article, we will compare medical schools in the UAE and the UK, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about where to study medicine and then provide lots of information on applying to the UK from the UAE in particular.
It is worth noting that all of our UCAT Courses in Dubai or our UCAT tutoring in the UAE are online so can be taken from any city at a time of your convenience with experts in the UK.
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UK Medical Schools vs. UAE: A Comparison for Applicants in 2025
UK Medical Schools vs. UAE: A Comparison for Applicants
The UAE has a growing reputation for high-quality medical education, with leading institutions like Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), Dubai Medical College, Khalifa University, and the UAE University College of Medicine and Health Sciences.
These offer excellent, modern programmes for aspiring doctors.
However, the UK remains the top destination for UAE students seeking a globally recognised medical degree from excellent medical schools in the UK.
The prestige of graduating from world-leading universities like the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL (University College London) opens doors internationally.
This international standing, combined with unparalleled research opportunities and a direct, five to six year path to becoming a doctor, is a primary reason students choose the UK.
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UCAT Dubai & Abu Dhabi: Your 2025 Guide to UCAT Prep, Courses & Tutoring
For any student in the UAE aiming for a UK medical school, acing the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) is non-negotiable.
This guide is designed for applicants searching for the best UCAT preparation in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, covering everything from local UCAT courses to the advantages of expert online tutoring.
UCAT Classes in Dubai and UCAT Courses in the UAE
Your first instinct might be to search for a physical UCAT institute in Dubai or an in-person UCAT course in Abu Dhabi. Many students look for local UCAT classes, hoping for a structured environment.
However, this traditional approach has limitations:
Generic Curriculum: In-person UCAT training often uses a one-size-fits-all syllabus that doesn't adapt to your learning style or target your specific weak areas.
Non-Specialist Tutors: Tutors at general test prep centres may lack the deep, first-hand experience of the UK medical school application process, who are experts in the field and have actually done that themselves.
Rigid Schedules: Fixed class times can be difficult to manage alongside demanding schoolwork from institutions like GEMS or Dubai College.
While any UCAT preparation is better than none, a generic course is often not enough to achieve the top-decile score required by the best UCAT medical schools.
👉🏼 Join Online UCAT Courses run by Experts
The Advantage: Expert Online UCAT Tutoring for UAE Students
To gain a significant competitive advantage, the smarter choice is one-to-one, online UCAT tutoring from UK-based experts. This is the premium standard of UCAT prep for international students.
When you work with a specialist UCAT tutor from TheUKCATPeople, you get:
Unrivalled Expertise: Your 1-1 UCAT coaching in Dubai is delivered online by qualified UK doctors and medical students who have scored in the top 10% themselves. They know precisely what admissions tutors are looking for.
Fully Personalised Preparation: We analyse your performance to create a bespoke study plan. Whether you need to master decision-making or improve your speed in Verbal Reasoning, our focus is 100% on you.
Ultimate Convenience & Flexibility: Access the best UCAT tutor from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in the UAE. All you need is an internet connection. We schedule sessions around your life, not the other way around. We do lessons in evenings, weekends and during the weekdays.
A Proven Track Record: Our methods are proven to help students from the UAE secure places at their dream UK medical schools.
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Official UCAT Test Centres in the UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
After your preparation, you must sit the official UCAT exam at a registered Pearson VUE test centre. You are not able to take the UCAT online from home.
Official UCAT test centres in the UAE include:
Selem DMCC in Dubai
New Horizons CLC in Dubai
The Exam Preparation & Testing House FZCO in Dubai
New Horizons CLC in Abu Dhabi
Al Khawarizmi International College in Abu Dhabi
We strongly advise booking your test slot on the official UCAT Consortium website as soon as registration opens, as places are limited and fill up very quickly.
⭐️ Ready to achieve a top UCAT score? Don't leave your future to chance with a generic class. Invest in expert, one-to-one online UCAT tutoring and get the personalised support you need to succeed. Explore our UCAT packages today.
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IELTS Exam From UAE and Dubai For Medicine In The UK
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognised exam that assesses English language proficiency. It is essential for international students who wish to study medicine in the UK.
UK medical schools require strong science grades and proven English proficiency. You will need to take the UKVI IELTS Academic exam. Testing centres are available across the UAE. A score of 7.0-7.5 is typically the minimum requirement. Don't leave this until the last minute!
There are two types of IELTS exams: Academic and General Training. For medical school applications, you will need to take the Academic version.
The IELTS exam consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section evaluates specific language skills essential for effective communication in clinical settings.
In the Listening section, you answer 40 questions based on recordings of conversations and monologues. The Reading section includes multiple-choice questions and other formats based on texts from books, journals, and newspapers.
The Writing section requires you to describe data and discuss an argument or problem in essay form. The Speaking test is conducted face-to-face and includes personal questions, a task-based discussion, and further discussion on the topic.
IELTS scores range from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert). UK medical schools typically require an overall score between 6.5 and 7.5, with specific minimum scores in each section.
The IELTS certificate is valid for two years and is necessary for university admission and professional practice in the UK. Preparation resources include official IELTS materials, guides from the British Council, and various online platforms. Regular practice across all sections is key to achieving a high score.
👉🏼 Read more: IELTS Exam English Language Requirements For Medicine In The UK
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The Cost of Studying Medicine: A UK vs. UAE Breakdown
Understanding the financial commitment is essential.
In the UAE: Tuition fees at medical colleges in the UAE can range from approximately AED 120,000 to AED 160,000 per year.
In the UK: For international students, medical school tuition fees in the UK typically range from £38,000 to £60,000 per year. Living costs vary by city but are a significant additional expense.
Scholarships: Whilst possible, it is generally not possible to easily obtain scholarships to study medicine in the UK, so we would strongly consider looking at the finances first.
See a breakdown of all medical school fees for international students here
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The Ultimate Package: A Comprehensive Solution for UAE, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai Students Applying to the UK
The Ultimate Package: A Comprehensive Solution for UAE, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai Students Applying to the UK
The Ultimate Package is a highly effective and tailored program designed to assist students from the UAE, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, in their journey to apply for medical schools in the UK. This all-in-one package offers a wide range of benefits and support, ensuring that students have the necessary tools and guidance to navigate the complex application process with confidence.
1-1 Mentoring from Qualified Doctors and Dentists
One of the key benefits of the Ultimate Package is the personalised mentorship provided by qualified doctors and dentists. These mentors offer valuable insights into the medical profession and can provide expert advice on various aspects of the application process, including selecting the right medical schools, obtaining relevant work experience, and preparing for interviews.
Expert UCAT, Personal Statement, and Interview Tutoring
The Ultimate Package also includes expert tutoring in UCAT, personal statement writing, and interview preparation. This comprehensive support ensures that students are well-prepared for every aspect of the medical school application process. Tutors with extensive experience in these areas provide targeted guidance and strategies to help students excel in the UCAT exam, craft an outstanding personal statement, and perform well in interviews.
Guidance on Work Experience, Volunteering, and Wider Reading
Securing relevant work experience, volunteering, and engaging in wider reading are essential components of a successful medical school application. The Ultimate Package offers expert guidance on finding and maximising these opportunities, helping students to build a strong foundation for their medical career and demonstrate their commitment to the field.
Tailored Support for Students in the UAE, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai
The Ultimate Package is specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by students from the UAE, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai when applying to medical schools in the UK. This includes assistance with navigating the differences in education systems, preparing for standardised exams like the UCAT and understanding the UK healthcare landscape of the NHS.
A Proven Track Record of Success
The Ultimate Package has helped hundreds of students secure places at top medical schools in the UK. With a strong focus on personalised support and expert guidance, the program has a proven track record of success, making it an ideal choice for students from the UAE, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai who are aspiring to study medicine in the UK.
By enrolling in the Ultimate Package, students from the UAE can benefit from a comprehensive and tailored approach to the medical school application process, significantly increasing their chances of success and ultimately achieving their dream of studying medicine in the UK.
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Understanding UK Medicine Entry Requirements for UAE Students
As an applicant from the UAE, it's crucial to understand the specific entry requirements for UK medical schools. These requirements help ensure you are adequately prepared for the rigorous medical curriculum and can succeed in your studies.
Requirements for Studying Medicine in the UK
UK medical schools typically require UAE applicants to have a strong academic background in science subjects, such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
In addition to achieving high grades in these subjects, students will also need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language through the UKVI IELTS exam.
Medicine Acceptance Rate UK for UAE Applicants
While acceptance rates for international students, including those from the UAE, can vary depending on the medical school and the applicant pool, it's essential to recognise that competition for places in UK medical schools is often fierce.
To increase your chances of acceptance, it's crucial to have a strong academic record, excellent exam scores, and relevant work experience or volunteering opportunities in the medical field. Preparing a well-rounded application that highlights your strengths and commitment to a medical career is key to standing out among other applicants.
👉🏼 Join our Ultimate Package to boost your chances of success
UKVI IELTS Dubai and UAE Entry Requirements from the UK
See our guide above about the IELTS exam.
By understanding the specific entry requirements for UK medical schools and dedicating time and effort to preparing for standardised exams like the UCAT, UAE students can increase their chances of securing a place at a top medical school in the UK.
Utilising available resources, such as UCAT courses, tutoring, and test centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, can provide valuable support throughout the application process, ensuring you are well-equipped to pursue your dream of studying medicine in the UK.
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Finding Medical Work Experience and Shadowing in the UAE
UK medical schools want to see your commitment to medicine through practical experience.
Many UK medical schools require applicants to have a certain amount of work experience or shadowing in healthcare settings.
In the UAE, you can find various opportunities to gain this experience, such as volunteering at local hospitals, clinics, or healthcare centres.
You can also approach medical professionals in your community to seek shadowing opportunities, which will give you valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of doctors and other healthcare professionals.
Doctor Shadowing for High School Students in UAE:
Gaining shadowing experience is highly valuable. Proactively contact doctors at local clinics and hospitals. Explain you are an aspiring medical student applying to the UK and ask if you can shadow them for a period. Persistence is key.
Hospital and Clinic Volunteering in UAE:
Many hospitals and healthcare centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have volunteering programmes. These opportunities demonstrate your compassion and give you a real-world view of patient care.
Look into programmes at major hospitals or initiatives like the Beit Al Khair Society. Both shadowing and volunteering are crucial for a competitive application.
UAE Medical School Work Experience Requirements
We would recommend making sure that you get work experience in hospitals and GP surgeries to boost your application. Several medical universities and hospitals in the UAE offer volunteering programs for students interested in pursuing a medical career.
Participating in these programs can help you develop essential skills, such as communication, teamwork, and empathy, while also providing valuable networking opportunities with medical professionals.
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Applying to UK Universities from the UAE: Direct Entry Options
As an international student from the UAE, you have the option to apply for direct entry to specific UK medical schools, which allows you to apply to these institutions in addition to your four UCAS choices.
Direct Entry Medical Schools for International Students
Several UK universities offer direct entry options for international students, including Brunel Medical School, Buckingham Medical School, UCLAN Medical School and Queen Mary's Malta.
By applying to these institutions as direct entry, you can increase your chances of securing a place at a UK medical school, as it allows you to apply to more schools than you could through UCAS alone.
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Medical Interviews and Admissions Expert Guidance for UAE Students For 2026 Entry
Medical school interviews are a critical component of the application process, as they allow universities to assess your suitability for a medical career and determine if you would be a good fit for their course.
Studying Medicine in the UK: Interview Preparation
Preparing for medical school interviews is essential for success. As a UAE applicant, you should research the UK healthcare system, focusing on the NHS, the 6 NHS core values, and the challenges it faces.
Regularly reading UK healthcare news will also help you become familiar with the medical landscape in the UK.
Practising common medicine interview questions and discussing your experiences and motivations for pursuing medicine will ensure you are well-prepared for this important step in the application process.
Admissions Expert UAE Support and Mentoring
Working with an admissions expert who specialises in UAE applicants can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the medical school application process.
These experts can offer personalised advice on preparing for interviews, writing personal statements, and navigating the unique challenges that UAE applicants face when applying to UK medical schools.
👉🏻 Contact our team of experts to guide you through your application
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Good luck!
Best of luck with your application! If you are looking for more help, then check out the other parts of our UCAS guide or our other guides to components of the application such as the UCAT and personal statement.
You can also contact our expert team of tutors for assistance with studying for the UCAT, writing your medicine personal statement, or medicine interview coaching.
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UAE Applicant FAQ: UCAT Prep in Dubai, Entry Requirements & More
What are the best UCAT courses and classes in Dubai?
Many students in Dubai search for in-person UCAT courses or UCAT classes. While these offer structured learning, the most effective approach for a top score is one-to-one online UCAT tutoring. This gives you personalised UCAT coaching from UK-based medical experts who have excelled in the exam, focusing entirely on your specific needs - something a generic class cannot offer.
Where can I find expert UCAT tutoring in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
The best UCAT tutoring for Dubai and Abu Dhabi students is delivered online by UK-based specialists. This gives you direct access to qualified doctors and top medical students who know the UK system inside and out. You get the flexibility to schedule sessions around your demanding schoolwork and receive expert guidance that local centres can't match.
Is UCAT preparation in Dubai essential to get into a UK medical school?
Yes, dedicated UCAT preparation is absolutely essential. The UCAT is a major factor in how UK universities decide who to interview. Simply being a strong academic student is not enough. A high UCAT score, achieved through focused UCAT preparation, can make your application stand out and is a critical investment in your future medical career.
What is the difference between UCAT coaching and a UCAT course in Dubai?
A UCAT course or UCAT training in Dubai typically involves a group of students learning a set curriculum. UCAT coaching, especially one-to-one online, is a far more personal and dynamic process. A personal coach or tutor analyses your performance, identifies your weaknesses, and provides targeted strategies to turn them into strengths, leading to faster and more significant score improvements.
Where are the official UCAT test centres in the UAE located?
You must sit the UCAT exam at an official Pearson VUE test centre. The main UCAT test centres in the UAE are located in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Key locations include Selem DMCC in Dubai and Al Khawarizmi International College in Abu Dhabi. It is vital to book your test slot early on the official UCAT website as places are limited and fill up very quickly.
What are the main entry requirements for UAE students applying to UK medicine?
For students applying from the UAE, UK medical schools typically require AAA in A-Levels, including Chemistry and Biology. For IB, a score of 38+ with 7,6,6 at Higher Level (including Chemistry and Biology) is common. You will also need a high score in the UCAT and the UKVI Academic IELTS, plus relevant medical work experience.
How can I find doctor shadowing as a high school student in Dubai?
Finding doctor shadowing in Dubai or Abu Dhabi requires a proactive approach. Contact local hospitals (both public and private) and smaller clinics directly. Prepare a short CV and a polite email explaining that you are an aspiring UK medical applicant. Persistence is key. Also, consider virtual work experience programs, which are highly valued by UK universities.
Do I need a study medicine consultant in Dubai to apply to the UK?
While some students use general study medicine consultants in Dubai, a more effective approach is to work directly with application specialists and tutors who are themselves UK doctors and medical students. They provide first-hand, expert advice on the UCAT, personal statements, and interviews that a general consultant cannot offer, giving you a more authentic competitive edge.
When should I start my UCAT prep in Dubai?
For students in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, we recommend starting your UCAT preparation at the beginning of Year 12. This gives you ample time to slowly build your skills across all sections without it interfering with your A-Level or IB studies. Consistent practice over a longer period is far more effective than last-minute cramming.
Are UK medical schools hard to get into for students from the UAE?
Competition is high for all applicants, including those from the UAE. However, every year, many well-prepared students from top schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi gain places. Success depends on a combination of excellent grades, a high UCAT score, strong work experience, and outstanding interview performance. With the right preparation and guidance, your application can be highly competitive.
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