Medicine at Oxbridge
Oxford and Cambridge are two of the best universities in the world. They have both taught medicine since the 1500s. These institutions allow students to learn from professors and lecturers who are at the top of their fields.
Oxbridge is a portmanteau of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, the two oldest, wealthiest, and most famous universities in the United Kingdom. The term is used to refer to them collectively, in contrast to other British universities, and more broadly to describe characteristics reminiscent of them.
Medicine at Oxford and Cambridge
The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge offer a traditional medicine course over 6 years. The first 3 years are pre-clinical, this allows students to build a strong foundation in science of medicine and research before moving on to 3 years of clinical teaching.
Oxford teaches through tutorial based learning. Students will be assigned tutors whom they meet in weekly group teaching sessions. This teaching is more tailored to an individual's needs unlike a traditional lecture based approach many other universities adopt. Oxford does not use full body dissection unlike Cambridge.
Cambridge offers a supervision style of teaching. They have a similar approach to Oxford, students meet in small groups (supervision) and discuss a topic they are currently studying. The group is led by a specialist supervisor in the subject area. Cambridge offers full body dissection in its anatomy teaching.
The College System
Each university comprises multiple colleges, each with its own distinct identity, history, and traditions. Students belong to both the university and a specific college, where they live, dine, and receive academic and pastoral support. The college system fosters a close-knit community within the larger university environment, providing students with personalised attention, small-group tutorials, and a strong sense of belonging. It also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and intellectual exchange, contributing to the rich academic experience for which Oxbridge is renowned worldwide.
When applying to Oxbridge students can select a specific college they want to apply to. Many factors go into selecting the right college for you. Things to consider are whether the college is catered or self-catered, the entry requirements, the traditions, the research it produces and the overall feel of the college. It is recommended that you visit multiple colleges before deciding on which to apply to. Students can also submit an ‘open application’ which assigns your application to a college that has received the least number of applications that year.
Entry Requirements
The Oxbridge universities have a high threshold when it comes to academic grade requirements. They also have a focus on a candidate's interest in research as both medical schools pride themselves on their medical research.
Oxford and Cambridge require a minimum of A*AA at A level with chemistry being a required subject. They also require at least one of physics, biology or math. Most offers from Oxbridge are made to students who achieve A*A*A at A-level. Note that there are different requirements depending on the college you apply to so make sure you do your research before selecting a college.
UCAT
Oxbridge have now adopted the UCAT as an entry exam. The UCAT is an entry exam now used by all Medical Schools for undergraduate entry. This makes the exam of utmost importance when it comes to your application, it can be the difference between receiving an offer or not. Oxbridge are likely to set the threshold for what they consider an acceptable UCAT score very high.
If you are a candidate wanting to apply to Oxbridge it is highly recommended you research the UCAT exam and start preparing as early as possible. Using the right question bank and getting the right teaching can be the difference between a successful application to oxbridge and rejection.
MedEntry is the UK’s leading UCAT provider, to get started on your UCAT journey, view our UCAT resources.
Medical Research
With Oxbridge universities producing world leading medical research they value candidates who show an interest in research. You can demonstrate your interest in research in many different ways such as reading the latest research articles in publications such as the BMJ.
Candidates are also encouraged to undertake some research themselves; this can be done either as a curricular activity such as an EPQ or an extracurricular research project you have an interest in. Entering your research into student journals, getting them into your local hospitals or winning an award for your research will ensure you stand out as a candidate.
Your personal statement and interview are the perfect time to show off all the great experience you have in research.
How to succeed in your Oxbridge application
Advice provided by Dr Konain Ehsan, a leading expert in Oxbridge applications. He has guided 100s of students with successful Oxbridge applications.
Applying to Oxbridge (Oxford or Cambridge) for Medicine is a rigorous process, but with proper preparation, it can be manageable. Here is Dr Konain's advice on how to succeed in your application.
Research
Understand the requirements and expectations of both Oxford and Cambridge for Medicine. Each university may have its own specific criteria and application process. Speak to experts about the process to make sure you have the correct and up-to-date information.
Eligibility
Ensure you meet the academic requirements. For most applicants, this will include excellent grades at GCSE and predicted or achieved high grades at A-level (or equivalent)
Admissions Tests
Make sure you get the right UCAT teaching. At MedEntry we have the UK’s leading UCAT support. You can start by accessing our free resources here
UCAS Application
Apply through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), which is the central application system for undergraduate courses in the UK. The deadline for Medicine courses is typically earlier than for other courses, often in October of the year prior to entry.
Personal Statement
Write a strong personal statement that demonstrates your passion for and commitment to Medicine. Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and interests, and explain why you want to study Medicine at Oxbridge specifically.
References
Provide academic references from teachers who know you well and can attest to your suitability for studying Medicine at a top university.
MedEntry is happy to provide support to your teachers to craft references. MedEntry can be contacted at info@medentry.co.uk
Interviews
If you're shortlisted, you'll likely be invited to an interview. Oxbridge interviews for Medicine can be challenging, often involving both academic and ethical questions.
Practise mock interviews and prepare thoroughly.
MedEntry Interview resourcesRemember, the process can be competitive and demanding, so it's essential to start early, stay organised, and seek guidance and support where needed.