Studying medicine in the UK opens up excellent chances of success with extraordinary exposure and a deep healthcare knowledge base. As per QS News Ranking 2023, 43 UK universities featured in the list of top 650 medical universities worldwide, making it a go-to choice for many aspirants. Completing an MBBS in the UK usually takes 5-6 years and is completed as a bachelor of medicine in BS, BCh, BAO and ChB. Some of the leading universities in the UK including the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and University College London among others offer this course to eligible candidates.
Read with us to learn all about the MBBS in UK requirements, the process, top universities and the approximate cost of education.
Why Study Medicine in the UK?
There is a range of benefits accrued by students studying MBBS in the UK that help them kickstart their careers surpassing the competition. These include:
- Quality Education from Top Ranking Universities: By choosing to study from the leading universities, students get an opportunity for hands-on training from the top medical practitioners. There is a vast practical exposure provided to students right from the first year to hone their skills.
- No Mandatory Donation: A range of private colleges in India demand a donation alongside the annual fee that can significantly add to the overall cost of the program. Universities in the UK do not require donation and extends scholarship opportunities to manage education cost.
- Enhanced Employment Opportunities: The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK offers some of the best internships to MBBS students. Besides this many private hospitals and medical research centres open doors for medical practitioners.
- Increased Exposure: Being an international student at a leading university provides exposure to people from across the world. It provides an excellent networking opportunity for students at an early level.
- Access to Latest Research: Lastly, another advantage of enrolling in a university in the UK is to get access to the leading developments first-hand. The UK is among the leaders in medical innovation and can provide an opportunity to witness the innovations up close.
Eligibility Criteria for Studying MBBS in the UK
The eligibility criteria for enrolling in universities are:
- The student must be a minimum of 18 years of age at the time of application of admission.
- The student must pass 10+2 from an international board or ICSE/CBSE board with 90% marks. This percentage is a must in Biology and Chemistry specifically.
- The students must clear UK entrance exams including the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT), Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) or Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT). Students can also present their scores in NEET for admission.
- Students must clear IELTS with a minimum score of 7.0.
Requirements of Top Medicine Universities in UK
| University | QS World University Rankings 2023 | Admission Requirements | IELTS Score | Test Scores | Application Deadlines |
| University of Oxford | 2 | Grade A in Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics | 7.5 or above | UKCAT- 766
BMAT- 6.0 or above |
October |
| University of Cambridge | 5 | Minimum five A grades in relevant subjects or an honours degree in any discipline | 7.0 or above | UKCAT- 650
BMAT- 6.1 in sections 1 and 2 |
October |
| Imperial College London | 6 | Grade A in Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics | 7.5 or above | UKCAT- 650
BMAT- 11.5 overall |
January |
| University College London | 8 | Biology and Chemistry compulsory with grade A in either | 7.5 or above | 5.8 in sections 1 and 2 and 3A in section 3 | December |
Besides these eligibility criteria, universities demand recommendation letters from the school teachers and counselors, a Personal Statement explaining the motivation for the program, a detailed CV / resume, and academic transcripts for admissions.
Cost of Studying Medicine in the UK
The cost of the program depends on the university chosen. Here is a list of tuition fees of different universities.
| University | Annual Tuition Fees (GBP) | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
| University of Cambridge | 67,194 | 66.22 lakhs |
| University of Oxford | 43,670 | 41.12 lakhs |
| Imperial College London | 50,400 | 52.15 lakhs |
| University College London | 50,300 | 48.63 lakhs |
Besides the tuition fee, there is an additional cost of applying including the fee of IELTS, NEET, Visa and application. The cost of living is also added to the overall cost of studying medicine in the UK. The cost of accommodation, utilities, transportation and personal expenses add up.
To manage the costs, universities offer scholarships to deserving candidates.
Scholarships for MBBS in the UK
Here is a list of scholarships for students studying medicine in the UK:
- King’s College London Scholarship: It is a partially funded scholarship granting a scholarship award of £4000. Students applying for bachelor’s in human medicine and social health are eligible to apply for this scholarship.
- British Chevening Scholarship: It is a fully funded medical scholarship for international students in the UK offered by the UK government. It covers tuition fees, travel expenses, living costs, visa costs, and health exams.
- The International Pharmacy Scholarship: It is a scholarship for MBBS in the UK covering the cost of a five-year diploma program in medicine. Five students are granted a scholarship award of £3,000 to study at the University of Birmingham.
Depending on the university and the program chosen, there are numerous scholarship opportunities available for deserving candidates to manage their educational expenses.
Let us finally look at the potential career opportunities available to students obtaining MBBS degrees from the UK.
Career Opportunities After MBBS in the UK
Starting a medical career in the UK presents diverse opportunities, with practitioners specializing in various fields. Some potential career paths, organizations that hire, and the initial journey for doctors in the first 2-3 years post-completion.
Career Paths and Organizations:
- Internal Medicine Physician:
- Organizations: National Health Service (NHS), private hospitals.
- Journey: Typically involves rotations in different medical specialties, gaining diverse experience.
- Cardiologist:
- Organizations: NHS hospitals, private clinics.
- Journey: Specialized training in cardiology, including diagnostics and interventions.
- Ophthalmologist:
- Organizations: Eye hospitals, private practices.
- Journey: Focuses on eye health, performing surgeries, and managing eye conditions.
- Neurologist:
- Organizations: NHS neurology departments, research institutions.
- Journey: Specializes in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders.
Salary Averages for Various Profiles:
| Medical Specialty | Average Annual Salary in the UK (GBP) |
| Internal Medicine Physician | £72,000 – £100,000 |
| Cardiologist | £91,000 – £150,000 |
| Ophthalmologist | £80,000 – £120,000 |
| Neurologist | £70,000 – £110,000 |
Note: Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the employing organization.
Initial Journey Post MBBS Completion:
- Foundation Training (F1 and F2):
- Rotations: Exposure to various specialties.
- Supervision: Guidance from senior doctors.
- Skill Development: Practical skills honed through hands-on experience.
- Specialty Training (ST1 and beyond):
- Specialization: In-depth training in chosen medical specialty.
- Certification: Progress towards becoming a fully qualified specialist.
- Increasing Autonomy: Gradual independence in decision-making.
- Consultant Role (After Specialization):
- Autonomy: Independent practice with a high level of responsibility.
- Research Opportunities: Contribution to medical research and advancements.
Conclusion
Studying medicine in the UK is a lucrative career option promising excellence, growth and extraordinary career prospects. Besides a noteworthy education experience, students can be affirmative of a good living experience and plenty of networking opportunities that will stay with them lifelong. The scholarships available for MBBS students in the UK further render it a comparatively feasible option for students desiring to build a career on a budget.
At LilacBuds, we offer support and guidance to aspiring students on their applications for the top UK universities. Contact us and embark on a journey of a rewarding career, today!
