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Application Guide 2025: 

UCAS

Studying Medicine in the UK from Canada: A Complete Guide - 2026

<p class="font_8"><a href="https://www.theukcatpeople.co.uk/ucat-bmat-tutors"><strong>Dr. Akash Gandhi&nbsp;</strong></a></p> <p class="font_8">Medicine Admissions Expert</p>

Dr. Akash Gandhi 

Medicine Admissions Expert

Introduction

Are you thinking about studying medicine in the UK as a Canadian student? You're not alone - more students from Toronto, Vancouver, Mississauga, Burlington and North Vancouver apply each year.


The UK offers a direct path into medicine straight from high school, unlike Canada, where you must complete an undergraduate degree before applying. 


You’ll also benefit from a shorter time to qualification, world-class medical schools, and recognised routes back to practice in Canada.


This guide breaks down everything you need to know - from UCAT in Canada to tuition fees, visa requirements, and our top tips for success, based on our 13 years of experience helping international students gain places to study in the UK. 

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Why Study Medicine in the UK as a Canadian?

Direct Entry After High School

UK medical schools accept Canadian students straight from Grade 12. That means no need to complete a separate undergraduate degree. It’s one application through UCAS and one entrance exam (UCAT) - and you can start your medical training right away.


Save Time and Money

By skipping four years of undergrad in Canada, you’ll enter the profession sooner and avoid extra tuition fees. UK MBBS and MBChB degrees typically last five or six years.


Global Recognition & Return Options

Graduates from recognised UK universities can return to Canada by completing licensing requirements such as the MCCQE and CaRMS. Many also choose to practise in the UK or apply through the US system.


Proven Track Record

We support Canadian students every year - with many securing places at universities such as St Andrews, Queen’s Belfast, Birmingham, and Manchester (+ many more)


study medicine in UK from Canada

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Entry Requirements for UK Medical Schools (for Canadian Students)

If you're a Canadian student applying to UK medical schools, you'll be pleased to know that most UK universities are well-acquainted with Canadian curricula and grading systems. 


Entry requirements will vary slightly depending on your province and chosen qualifications.


🇨🇦 Typical Entry Requirements for Canadian Students Applying to Medicine in the UK (up to 2025 entry)


Please check each medical school's own website for up to date info on minimum grade requirements, the following are a rough guide:



Canadian High School Diploma (from Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, etc.):


  • Most UK medical schools require approximately an overall average of 85–90% or higher in your top five Grade 12 subjects.

  • Ontario: Top 6 Grade 12 U/M courses with 85–90% minimum

  • British Columbia: Graduation Diploma with 85%+ in academic Grade 12 subjects

  • Alberta: Five academic Grade 12 courses with mid-to-high 80s

  • Quebec: Completion of CEGEP with strong academic results (exact requirements vary)


Compulsory Subjects:

  • Biology and Chemistry are typically required at the senior secondary level (Grade 12). 

  • Some universities may also prefer or require Maths or Physics.

  • IB Diploma: Most UK medical schools require 38–42 points, with 7,6,6 at Higher Level, including Chemistry and Biology.


Advanced Placement (AP) Courses:

Some universities (e.g. St Andrews, Edinburgh, UCL) accept AP scores of 5 in relevant subjects as equivalent to A-levels.
Usually requires at least 3–4 APs, including Biology and Chemistry.


A-Levels (studied in Canada):

If taken, universities typically expect A*AA to AAA, including Biology and Chemistry.



🎯 Important Notes:

  • UK universities do not require the SAT or ACT for Canadian students.

  • UK medical schools do require the UCAT or BMAT (note: BMAT was discontinued in 2024).

  • Entry criteria vary – always check the specific medical school’s website or speak to our team for province-specific guidance.

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UCAT Canada – Everything You Need to Know

The UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is the main admissions test required by UK medical schools. All Canadian applicants must take the UCAT at an official Pearson Vue test centre in Canada.


What is the UCAT?

The UCAT is a two-hour computer-based test split into four sections:

  • Verbal Reasoning

  • Decision Making

  • Quantitative Reasoning

  • Situational Judgement

It’s designed to assess the skills needed for a medical degree - but many Canadian students find it challenging due to the tight timing and unfamiliar format.



Where Can I Take the UCAT in Canada?

You can sit the UCAT in person at Pearson Professional Centres across Canada. 


Popular UCAT test centre locations include:

  • Toronto

  • Vancouver

  • Calgary

  • Ottawa

  • Montreal

👉🏼 We recommend booking early, as Canadian UCAT test centres fill up quickly.



UCAT Prep in Canada – Why It Matters

At TheUKCATPeople, we offer 1-1 UCAT tutoring online for Canadian students, delivered by top-scoring UCAT experts who’ve sat the test themselves.


📘 Our UCAT Canada tutoring includes:

  • Personalised UCAT strategy plans

  • Online coaching with flexible hours to suit Canadian time zones

  • Realistic mock exams and feedback

  • Section-specific guidance (especially for VR and SJT)

👉🏼 Explore UCAT Tutoring Packages for Canada


❓ Applying in 2025 for 2026 Entry?

✅ Join our incredibly successful Ultimate Package programme
✅ Receive 1-1 mentoring from qualified doctors & dentists
✅ Advice on work experience, volunteering, wider reading & universities
✅ Expert UCAT Tutoring, Personal Statement Editing & Interview Tutoring
✅ 100s of successful students

✍️

The Ultimate Package for Canadian Students Applying to Medicine in the UK

For students applying in 2025 or 2026, our Ultimate Package is the most comprehensive way to maximise your chances of success.


This is more than just UCAT coaching - it’s complete 1-1 mentorship through every stage of your UK medicine application.


✅ What’s Included:

  • UCAT tutoring (1-1 and fully tailored online)

  • Personal statement editing 

  • MMI & Panel interview preparation

  • Medical School Strategic Selection Strategy (including St Andrews Medical School pathway for Canadian students)

  • Unlimited WhatsApp access to your UK doctor mentor throughout your journey


👉🏼 Join the Ultimate Package – Get Expert 1-1 Mentoring

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Interview Preparation for Canadian Students

Most UK medical schools use the MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) format. You’ll be expected to discuss ethical scenarios, teamwork, motivation for medicine, and NHS topics — even if you haven’t lived in the UK.


🩺 Top Interview Tips for Canadian Students:

  • Compare Canada’s healthcare system to the NHS

  • Know the 6 core NHS values

  • Stay up-to-date with UK medical news (BBC Health, NICE updates)

  • Use Canadian experiences in hospitals or volunteering to reflect on empathy, communication, and resilience


👉🏼 Explore Interview Coaching for UK Medical School

🏫

Medical Work Experience in Canada – Does It Count?

Yes. UK universities accept work experience gained in Canada. We know that it is not easy to come to the UK to come and do work experience, and we, at TheUKCATPeople, generally would advise against paying for longer work experience programmes in the UK


You could consider doing any of the following in Canada:

  • Hospital volunteering

  • Doctor shadowing

  • Care home or hospice wor

  • Virtual healthcare placements


Even one or two weeks of meaningful experience can help demonstrate commitment, maturity, and insight into a career in medicine, provided there was enough reflection in your responses and thoughts. 

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Do I Need IELTS as a Canadian Student?

Most UK medical schools require the IELTS UKVI Academic exam - even if English is your first language.


IELTS Canada Medicine Requirements:

  • Typical score required: 7.0 - 7.5 overall, with no band below 6.5

  • Testing centres: Available across Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, etc.)

  • Use: For both visa and university admissions

👉🏼 IELTS Medicine Requirements for UK Medical Schools

😊

UK Medical School Tuition Fees for Canadian Students

Studying medicine in the UK is an investment - but remember, you’re saving four years of undergrad in Canada.


🎓 UK Tuition Costs for 2025:

  • Tuition: £38,000–£60,000/year

  • Living Costs: £12,000–£18,000/year depending on city

  • Scholarships: Rare for international medicine applicants - plan for full funding


👉🏼 Compare UK Medical School Fees for International Students

1 to 1 UCAT Tutoring - Weekly

✅ Intensive UCAT Tutoring - Cover VR, QR, DM & SJT
✅ Expert UCAT Tutors - top-scoring tutors will guide you through
✅ Perfect your practice - we will iron out weaknesses with bespoke help
✅ 1-1 Online Tutoring - no group work - have a personal 1:1 tutor

📚

Top UK Medical Schools for Canadian Students

Here are some of the most popular and accessible universities for Canadian applicants:

🩺

Canadian Applicant Timeline for 2025 UK Medicine Entry

Applying to medicine in the UK from Canada takes planning and organisation. Below is a step-by-step timeline to guide you through the entire process if you are aiming to apply in 2025 or 2026


📌 During Grade 11

Start early. This is the best time to begin exploring your options and building your profile.

  • Research UK medical schools and their entry criteria for Canadian students

  • Explore popular options like St Andrews, Queen's Belfast, and Birmingham

  • Arrange healthcare shadowing or volunteering locally in Canada

  • Begin reading about the NHS and the UK healthcare system

📌 Spring and Summer Before Grade 12

This is the perfect time to begin preparing for the UCAT exam.

  • Start your UCAT preparation with a gradual, structured approach

  • Consider working with a UCAT tutor to target weak areas

  • Keep gaining medical experience and begin drafting your personal statement

  • Review what makes a strong application from a UK admissions perspective (this can be done with one of our expert mentors via our Ultimate Packages)


📌 July to September

This is the UCAT testing window. You will need to sit the exam at an official test centre.

  • Sit the UCAT at a Pearson VUE test centre in cities like Toronto or Vancouver

  • Book your exam date early to avoid missing out on your preferred slot

  • Complete several full mock exams under timed conditions

  • Review your UCAT score to finalise your choice of universities


📌 October 15

This is the UCAS application deadline for all UK medical schools.

  • Finalise and submit your UCAS application

  • Include a strong, reflective personal statement

  • Make sure school references and predicted grades are submitted correctly (this has sometimes been an issue with Canadian high schools)

  • Choose four UK medical schools that align with your academic profile and UCAT result


📌 November to March

This is the interview period. Most UK interviews for international students are now held online.

  • Prepare thoroughly for MMIs and panel interviews

  • Practice discussing ethical scenarios, motivation for medicine, and teamwork

  • Stay up to date with NHS developments and UK healthcare news

  • Make time for mock interviews to practise speaking under pressure


📌 Spring

This is when you will receive offers and begin preparing for your move.

  • Respond to UCAS offers and choose your firm and insurance choices

  • Start visa and accommodation applications

  • Begin planning for your transition to studying medicine in the UK


Have a qualified doctor oversee your application via our Medicine Ultimate Packages

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Canada to UK Medicine FAQs

1. Can I study medicine in the UK as a Canadian student after high school?

Yes. Canadian students can apply to UK medical schools directly after secondary school, without needing an undergraduate degree. This is one of the main advantages of applying to medicine in the UK from Canada.


2. What UCAT score is competitive for Canadian students applying to UK medicine?

A UCAT score of 2150 or higher (around 700 per section) is considered competitive for Canadian applicants. Top universities may require higher scores depending on the year.


3. Where can I take the UCAT in Canada?

The UCAT exam must be taken at an official Pearson VUE test centre. Locations include Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, and other major cities. Early booking is advised as slots fill up quickly.


4. Do Canadian students need to take the IELTS to study medicine in the UK?

Yes. Most UK medical schools require Canadian applicants to sit the IELTS UKVI Academic exam, even if English is your first language. A score of 7.0 to 7.5 overall is typically required. Check each medical school for their requirements


5. Will my Canadian work experience count for UK medical school applications?

Absolutely. UK universities accept Canadian healthcare experience, including hospital volunteering, shadowing, and care home work, as long as it includes meaningful reflection and patient interaction.


6. How do I apply to UK medical schools from Canada?

Canadian students apply through the UCAS system, choosing four medical schools. You will need to submit predicted grades, a personal statement, UCAT results, and references by 15 October each year.


7. Is it easier to get into medical school in the UK or Canada?

It is generally more accessible for Canadians to study medicine in the UK. UK schools accept students directly from high school, while Canadian schools require a completed undergraduate degree and have limited spaces.


8. Can I return to Canada after studying medicine in the UK?

Yes. Many Canadian students return after their UK medical degree by completing Canadian licensing exams (such as MCCQE) and applying through CaRMS. It is important to plan for this pathway in advance.


9. What are the tuition fees for Canadian students studying medicine in the UK?

UK medical school tuition for international students ranges from £38,000 to £60,000 per year, with additional living costs. Scholarships are limited, so most Canadian students are self-funded.


10. Which UK medical schools are popular among Canadian students?

Top choices include the University of St Andrews, Queen’s University Belfast, University of Exeter, Manchester, Birmingham, and Bristol. These schools have strong international support and high-quality teaching.

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