Join the UCAT Consortium

Leading provider in medical admissions testing

We are the largest provider of admissions tests for medical and dental schools in the UK, with 44 UK universities using the UCAT for one or more of their programmes.

The test is also used by a Consortium of 18 universities in Australia and New Zealand.

UCAT also has a number of international partner universities using our test as part of their selection processes.

Around 37,000 candidates sit the UCAT each year (as part of selection for UK universities) with a further 14,000 candidates taking the test in Australia and New Zealand.

Assesses the skills needed by universities and the medical profession

The UCAT tests a range mental abilities, attitudes and professional behaviours critical for new doctors and dentists to be successful in their clinical careers.

Security of a computer-based test

Our test is delivered securely by Pearson VUE, an international market leader in computer-based testing.

Computer based testing allows for the immediate release of results to candidates with no delays in marking / results delivery.

Flexibility for a global market

Candidates choose to sit the test when and where they like in over 150 test centres throughout the UK and in a further 130 countries internationally.

We are experienced in meeting the needs of international universities who wish to use our test at different times of the year to suit their admissions cycle.

Established Quality & Reliability

As established deliverers of high stakes, high volume testing, we are a fixed point in a complex changing HE environment.

Our UK universities receive results around two weeks after the UCAS deadline through a secure online results delivery system.

Continuous Innovation

SJTs have become a routine part of selection in medical and dental training. UCAT's SJT has been developed specifically for the consortium by the internationally renowned Work Psychology Group.

We routinely analyse our test using industry standard statistical analysis.

We invest significantly in our research infrastructure which is used to develop and improve the test and enhance medical/dental admissions.

Underpinned by Research

The UCAT is an efficient, reliable and valid method of discriminating between large numbers of similar candidates.

Research shows that our test is a valid predictor of performance in medical school.

We have a strong portfolio of research which we make available on our website in the interests of transparency and to encourage further studies.

The researchers we work with are at the forefront of researching medical and dental selection.

Our drive to improve the evidence base for selection in the UK has undoubtedly provided a catalyst for researching wider selection issues.

As a founder member of UKMED we work with other stakeholders in medical education in creating unique opportunities for new research informing the development of medical education and assessment.

First class Candidate experience

An easy online booking system, with highly trained customer services support available to all candidates.

Extensive advice to candidates and free preparation materials.

Preliminary test results released mid-test cycle to allow candidates to consider their ranking and to use their result to inform their UCAS choices.

Strong commitment to Widening Participation

Over 6,300 candidates receive a full-fee bursary.

Actively working with national WP organisations and WP teams at Consortium Universities to ensure information regarding the test reaches WP candidates.

Continued investment in new versions of the test to meet the needs of a wider pool of candidates with disabilities.

Consortium Member Benefits

Be part of a partnership of universities who direct the development and delivery of the test and help to shape the test and the organisation through membership on our various Consortium Committees.

Regular member meetings which focus on the development and delivery of the test in addition to considering topical selection and admission issues.  These are also a valuable forum for sharing of best practice and networking with other medical / dental admissions colleagues.

Members also have the opportunity to lead on / bid for research projects.