⚕️ Medicine

Academic Fit
Ensure the program matches your interests (e.g. research vs. clinical focus, science teaching style). Compare teaching methods (traditional lectures vs problem-based learning) and structure (length of course, clinical exposure).

Language

Most UK and Ireland programs are in English. In Europe, many programs require proficiency in the local language for clinical years. For example, many German medical schools require a C1-level German certificate. However, some countries offer entire medical or veterinary courses in English; confirm language of instruction before applying.

Quality and Accreditation
Check rankings and accreditation. Also ensure the program leads to a recognised qualification (e.g. listed by the World Directory of Medical Schools for medicine).

Clinical Exposure
Consider clinical training locations and hospitals affiliated with the program. University hospitals with strong teaching facilities provide more hands-on learning.

Cost & Funding
Compare tuition and living costs (see “Scholarships and Cost” below). Some European countries (e.g. Germany, Norway, Finland) have very low or no tuition, but higher living costs.

• DP Courses: Most courses require IB Higher Level Biology and Chemistry (often at least grade 6 or above) plus a third HL science or Maths. Typical total IB scores: Medicine 36–40+, Dentistry 36–38, Veterinary 34–42, Pharmacy 32–36. Universities publish specific offers:

  • Medicine: e.g. Cambridge asks for 40 points (HL 7,7,6 in Chemistry, Biology/Physics/Maths); Liverpool requires 36 points with HL 6 in Chemistry and Biology. Most UK schools expect ~36–39 points with HL6–7 in Bio and Chem, and often 5–6 in a third science/Math or English.

  • Dentistry: e.g. King’s College London requires 38 points with HL 6,6,6 (including Biology and Chemistry). Other UK dental schools similarly ask for 36–38 points with Biology and Chemistry at HL6+ (often also a third science).

  • Veterinary Medicine: e.g. Cambridge Vet requires 40–42 points (HL 7,7,6 including Chemistry and one of Biology/Physics/Maths); Royal (Dick) Edinburgh Vet requires 38 points (HL 6,6,6 in Biology, Chemistry, and another subject). Most UK vet schools expect around 36–38 points with HL6–7 in Bio and Chem, though Oxford/Cambridge vet are higher (40+).

  • Pharmacy: e.g. Manchester MPharm asks for 35 points (HL 6,6,5 including Chemistry and Biology); Cardiff requires 32–34 points with HL 6 in HL Chemistry or Biology. Generally, UK pharmacy courses ask for 32–36 points with HL grades ~6–7 in Chemistry and usually another science or Maths.

• Entrance Exam: you’ll normally have to take specific pre-med exams like the UCAT (UK), MCAT (US), or ISAT (multi-national) before you can get a place in medical school. If you’re struggling to fit in prep time, ask your teachers to help you set up a schedule, try out practice papers in a quiet space at school, or even set up a study group.

• Interview: If you pass the first stage of the admissions process, you might need to complete a Medicine interview. This is your chance to demonstrate your suitability for Medicine and showcase your personal qualities that are aligned with those of a good Doctor/Vet/Dentist.

• Language: For European schools, you often need high English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL, English A SL/HL, English B HL), and in many cases you must study some local language (e.g. for clinical placement). Note that in Europe outside the UK, medical courses are usually taught in the local language (so foreign applicants must learn it or know it by the end of the program). Some countries also require specific entrance exams for numerus clausus programs, in addition to meeting IB scores.

*Exam scores and other program entry requirements should be confirmed by contacting the university directly during the academic year of applying.