Your Guide to Australian and UK Universities That Don't Require UCAT

Written By Team MedView
Reviewed By Thomas Nicolson (Currently studying Doctor of Medicine - MD at the University of Queensland)

Last updated on the 24th April 2026.

Exploring alternative pathways: Universities offering medicine without UCAT

Are you interested in pursuing a medical career but worried about taking the UCAT? Or perhaps you're exploring alternative pathways that don’t rely on UCAT performance.

The good news is that while most Australian medical schools require UCAT for undergraduate entry, there are several high-quality pathways that do not require UCAT — particularly through:

• Non-UCAT undergraduate programs
• Guaranteed / provisional entry pathways
• Graduate-entry medicine (GAMSAT-based)

Below, we break down the key universities and how their admissions processes work.

Undergraduate medical programs in Australia without UCAT

While the majority of undergraduate medical schools in Australia use UCAT, a small number do not require UCAT at all.

Bond University

Bond University offers the Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine, which is one of the few undergraduate medical programs in Australia that does not require the UCAT.

To be considered, applicants typically need a strong academic record, with a competitive ATAR of around 96 or higher. The admissions process involves multiple stages, including an initial academic screening, followed by psychometric testing, and finally an interview.

Applicants who progress to the final stage are assessed on a range of attributes, including communication skills, ethical reasoning, motivation, and suitability for a career in medicine. The program has an annual cohort of approximately 180 students, with around 80% of places allocated to undergraduate applicants.

James Cook University (JCU)

James Cook University offers the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), which does not require the UCAT for admission.

Instead, applicants are assessed based on their academic performance and interview performance. While the minimum ATAR requirement can vary, successful applicants typically fall within a range of approximately 91 to 99+.

The program places a strong emphasis on rural and regional medicine, and the selection process is designed to identify students who demonstrate a commitment to serving underserved communities.

Charles Darwin University (CDU)

Charles Darwin University offers a direct entry pathway into medicine through the Northern Territory Medical Program, delivered in partnership with Flinders University.

Students commence the Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the outset, meaning they enter medical training directly after high school.

Admission typically requires a strong ATAR, UCAT, and interview, with a strong focus on rural, remote, and Indigenous health.

Undergraduate medicine in Australia (Provisional / Guaranteed) entry pathways without UCAT

These pathways allow high-achieving school leavers to secure a conditional place in a future Doctor of Medicine (MD) without requiring the UCAT.

Students complete an undergraduate degree first, then progress into medicine provided they meet academic and program requirements.

These pathways are extremely competitive, typically requiring ATARs in the 99.85–99.95+ range.

Griffith University

Griffith University offers a Bachelor of Medical Science / Doctor of Medicine, which is a provisional (guaranteed) entry pathway into medicine.

Applicants typically require an ATAR of ~99.85–99.90, with selection based on academics and an MMI interview.

Students complete an undergraduate degree before progressing into the MD, provided progression requirements are met.

University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC)

The University of the Sunshine Coast offers a provisional entry pathway into medicine in partnership with Griffith University.

Students complete a Bachelor of Medical Science before progressing into the Griffith MD. Entry is extremely competitive, typically requiring an ATAR of ~99.90+, with a small cohort (~20 students).

La Trobe University

La Trobe University offers a provisional entry pathway into medicine in partnership with the University of Melbourne.

Students complete a Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical) before progressing into the MD, provided academic thresholds are met. Entry typically requires an ATAR of ~99+.

University of Melbourne (UniMelb)

The University of Melbourne offers a guaranteed entry pathway into the Doctor of Medicine for high-achieving school leavers.

Applicants typically require an ATAR of ~99.00+ (full-fee) or ~99.90+ (CSP via scholarships). Students must complete an undergraduate degree and maintain a strong WAM before progressing into the MD.

University of Sydney (USyd)

The University of Sydney offers a guaranteed entry pathway into the Doctor of Medicine.

Applicants typically require an ATAR of ~99.95+, followed by additional selection processes such as written assessments and interviews.

This pathway provides a conditional place in the MD, subject to meeting academic progression requirements.

Graduate entry into medicine in Australia

For those who have already attained an undergraduate degree, graduate entry into medicine can be considered as another pathway.

Each university has its own set of requirements for admission and there are some that don't require the UCAT.

Australian National University (ANU)

The Australian National University offers the Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (MChD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must have completed (or be in the final year of) a Bachelor degree and achieve a competitive GPA (minimum ~5.0) alongside a GAMSAT score of at least 50 in each section. Selection for interview is based on a 50:50 combination of GPA and GAMSAT.

While minimum thresholds exist, successful applicants typically present significantly higher GPAs and GAMSAT scores due to the competitive nature of the program.

University of Melbourne (UniMelb)

The University of Melbourne offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must complete an undergraduate degree and achieve a strong GPA (typically ~6.5+), alongside a high GAMSAT score. Selection is based on a combination of GPA, GAMSAT, and MMI interview performance.

This pathway is highly competitive, with successful applicants generally exceeding minimum thresholds. The program is internationally recognised and offers extensive clinical training and research opportunities.

University of Sydney (USyd)

The University of Sydney offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants are required to achieve a minimum GPA of approximately ~5.0 and a competitive GAMSAT score. Selection is based on academic performance and interview, with additional criteria such as a personal statement required for certain streams (e.g. Dubbo).

Due to the limited number of places, successful applicants typically exceed minimum thresholds.

University of Wollongong (UoW)

The University of Wollongong offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must achieve a GPA of approximately ~5.5+ and meet minimum GAMSAT requirements, alongside completing the CASPer test. Selection for interview is based on a 50:50 combination of GAMSAT and portfolio assessment.

Shortlisted applicants are invited to complete an MMI interview, with strong emphasis placed on holistic attributes and rural suitability.

Griffith University

Griffith University offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must complete a Bachelor degree with a GPA of at least ~5.0 and achieve minimum GAMSAT scores of 50 in each section. Selection is based on academic performance and the Griffith Multi-Station Admissions Assessment (GUMSAA), which functions similarly to an MMI.

While minimum thresholds apply, competitive applicants typically present stronger academic and GAMSAT results.

University of Notre Dame (Sydney & Fremantle)

The University of Notre Dame Australia offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) across both Sydney and Fremantle campuses, including the rural KCRMT stream, as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must complete a Bachelor degree within the last 10 years and achieve a GPA of approximately 5.2+, alongside a GAMSAT score of ~52+. The selection process includes completion of the CASPer test, followed by an MMI interview.

Successful applicants typically achieve higher GPAs (~6.5+) and GAMSAT scores (~65+), reflecting the competitive nature of the program. The university places strong emphasis on holistic assessment, rural suitability, and alignment with its values-based selection approach.

Macquarie University

Macquarie University offers a 4-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must achieve a GPA of at least ~5.0 and meet minimum GAMSAT requirements, alongside completing a Bachelor degree within the last 10 years. Selection is based on a combination of academic performance and MMI interview, with a holistic review of the application.

Competitive applicants typically exceed minimum GPA and GAMSAT thresholds.

Deakin University

Deakin University offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must achieve a GPA of at least ~5.0 and meet minimum GAMSAT requirements. Selection is based on a combination of GPA, GAMSAT, and MMI interview performance.

Deakin applies a range of bonus adjustments, including consideration for rural background, work experience, and financial disadvantage. These adjustments can significantly influence interview offers and final rankings.

University of Queensland (UQ)

The University of Queensland offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must achieve a GPA of approximately 5.0+ and a competitive GAMSAT score, with selection based on a combination of GPA, GAMSAT, and MMI interview performance.

Certain prerequisite university-level subjects may be required depending on the applicant’s background. Due to the size and competitiveness of the cohort, successful applicants typically exceed minimum requirements.

University of Western Australia (UWA)

The University of Western Australia offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must achieve a GPA of approximately ~5.5+ and a competitive GAMSAT score. Selection is based on a combination of GPA, GAMSAT, and MMI interview performance.

The program is highly competitive, with successful applicants typically demonstrating strong academic and GAMSAT results.

Flinders University

Flinders University offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must achieve a GPA of at least ~5.0 and meet minimum GAMSAT requirements. Selection is based on academic performance and MMI interview, with additional pathways available for rural and Northern Territory applicants.

These pathways may have adjusted thresholds depending on applicant background.

University of Tasmania (UTAS)

The University of Tasmania offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a graduate-entry program.

Applicants must complete a Bachelor degree and achieve a competitive GPA and GAMSAT score, with selection based on academic performance and interview.

The program places strong emphasis on rural and regional healthcare, with priority often given to applicants demonstrating commitment to practicing in underserved areas.

International perspectives: UK medical schools without UCAT

For those looking to study medicine in the UK without obtaining a UCAT score, the landscape has changed significantly in recent years.

Historically, some UK medical schools used the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) instead of the UCAT. However, BMAT was discontinued after 2023, meaning most universities have now transitioned to the UCAT or introduced alternative selection methods.

As a result, the number of UK medical schools that do not require UCAT has become very limited.

UK Universities that do not require UCAT

University of Buckingham (UB)

The University of Buckingham offers a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) , which is one of the few UK medical programs that does not require the UCAT.

Applicants are assessed based on their academic performance, personal statement, references, and interview performance. The selection process is holistic, with strong emphasis placed on motivation, communication skills, and suitability for a career in medicine.

Due to the limited number of UK medical schools that do not require an admissions test, this pathway is highly competitive, with successful applicants typically demonstrating strong academic results and well-rounded personal profiles.

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

The University of Central Lancashire offers an MBBS program, primarily designed for international students, which does not require the UCAT.

Applicants are assessed based on their academic performance and interview performance, with selection focused on identifying candidates who demonstrate strong motivation and suitability for a medical career.

Entry is highly competitive, with limited places available, making this pathway a viable option for international applicants seeking alternative routes into UK medicine without sitting the UCAT.

Important note on previously BMAT universities

Many universities that previously did not require UCAT (because they used BMAT) have now transitioned to UCAT. These include:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• University College London (UCL)
• University of Leeds
• Lancaster University
• Brighton & Sussex Medical School (BSMS)

As of 2026, most of these universities now require UCAT as part of their admissions process.

This means applicants should assume that UCAT is now the standard requirement across the majority of UK medical schools.

Key takeaway

While it is still possible to study medicine in the UK without the UCAT, options are extremely limited and often more competitive or tailored towards specific applicant groups.

For most students, sitting the UCAT remains the most reliable pathway into UK medical schools.

Summary

Ultimately, there are multiple pathways into medicine, whether through undergraduate entry, graduate entry, or international study options.

While alternative routes without the UCAT do exist, they are becoming increasingly limited, particularly in the UK where the UCAT is now the dominant admissions test. Understanding these pathways and aligning your strategy early is critical to maximising your chances of success.

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Frequently asked questions

Which Australian universities require UCAT?

A number of Australian universities require applicants to undertake the UCAT as part of the undergraduate medical admissions process.

For undergraduate (direct entry), they include:

• Monash University (MU)
• University of New South Wales (UNSW)
• University of Newcastle (UoN)/University of New England (UNE)
• Western Sydney University (WSU)/Charles Sturt University (CSU)
• University of Adelaide (UoA)
• Flinders University
• Curtin University
• University of Tasmania (UTAS)

For undergraduate (guaranteed/provisional entry) they include:

• University of Queensland (UQ)
• Central Queensland University (CQU)
• University of Southern Queensland  (UniSQ)
• University of Notre Dame (Sydney & Fremantle)
• Charles Darwin University (CDU)/Flinders University
• University of Western Australia (UWA)

For undergraduate (rural entry), they include:

• University of Queensland (UQ)
• Central Queensland University (CQU)
• Griffith University
• University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
• Monash University (MU)
• University of New South Wales (UNSW)
• University of Newcastle (UoN)/University of New England (UNE)
• Western Sydney University (WSU)/Charles Sturt University (CSU)
• University of Notre Dame (Sydney & Fremantle)
• University of Adelaide (UoA)
• Flinders University
• Charles Darwin University (CDU)/Flinders University
• Curtin University
• University of Western Australia (UWA)
• University of Tasmania (UTAS)

Each university uses UCAT differently, with some weighting it heavily for interview selection, while others combine it with ATAR and interview performance.

What is the lowest UCAT score accepted in Australia?

UCAT cut-off scores vary each year depending on the applicant pool and the number of available places.

In general:

• Competitive metropolitan programs typically require ~3000–3200+
• Mid-range programs may consider scores around ~2800–3000
• Lower thresholds (e.g. ~2500+) may apply for certain universities such as the University of Tasmania or for rural entry pathways

It’s important to note that cut-off scores are not fixed and are influenced by cohort performance each year. Rural and special entry schemes may have lower UCAT requirements.

What is the best way to prepare for the UCAT?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to preparing for the UCAT, however successful students typically focus on structured preparation, time management, and targeted practice.

Key strategies include:

• Understanding the format and timing of each UCAT section
• Practising under timed conditions to build speed and accuracy
• Identifying strengths and weaknesses early and focusing on weaker areas
• Reviewing mistakes consistently to improve decision-making

Which UK universities require UCAT?

Most UK medical schools now require the UCAT as part of the admissions process, including universities such as University of Manchester, King's College London, and University of Birmingham.

Following the discontinuation of the BMAT, several universities — including Imperial College London and University College London — have transitioned to UCAT-based selection.

However, some universities, such as University of Oxford and University of Cambridge, have introduced alternative admissions assessments rather than adopting UCAT directly.

As a result, while UCAT is now the dominant admissions test in the UK, it is not universally required across all universities.

Which UK universities do not require UCAT?

Only a very small number of UK medical schools do not require the UCAT.

These include:

• University of Buckingham (UB)
• University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

These programs assess applicants based on academic performance, personal statements, and interview performance, rather than standardised admissions testing.

It’s important to note that these pathways are extremely limited and highly competitive, and most UK applicants will still need to sit the UCAT to maximise their options.

What is the lowest UCAT score accepted in the UK?

UCAT thresholds in the UK vary significantly between universities and each application cycle.

In general:

• Top-tier universities typically require ~2800–3200+
• Mid-range universities may consider scores around ~2500–2800
• Lower thresholds (~2300–2500+) may apply depending on the university and applicant profile

Some universities use strict UCAT cut-offs, while others apply points-based systems or contextual adjustments, which can lower the effective threshold for certain applicants.

It’s important to note that UCAT scores are not fixed cut-offs and can vary each year depending on cohort performance.

How is UCAT used by UK universities?

UK universities use the UCAT in a variety of ways during the admissions process.

Common approaches include:

• Cut-off thresholds to shortlist applicants for interview
• Weighted scoring systems, combining UCAT with academic results
• Ranking applicants based on total UCAT score
• Incorporating Situational Judgement Test (SJT) performance into selection

The exact weighting varies by university, so understanding how each medical school uses UCAT is critical when selecting where to apply.

What is the best way to prepare for the UCAT (UK applicants)?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to UCAT preparation, but successful UK applicants typically focus on structured preparation, timing, and strategy.

Key strategies include:

• Understanding the format and timing of each UCAT section
• Practising under strict timed conditions to build speed and accuracy
• Identifying strengths and weaknesses early and targeting weaker areas
• Reviewing mistakes consistently to improve decision-making and efficiency

Because UK universities often place significant weight on UCAT performance, strong preparation can have a direct impact on interview offers.

Need help gathering your thoughts?

Seeking guidance from experienced tutors can also make a significant difference, particularly when it comes to refining exam strategy and improving performance under pressure.

At MedView, we provide personalised UCAT preparation, strategic admissions guidance, and interview coaching to help students maximise their chances of receiving an interview and securing a place in medicine.

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