Studying Medicine at King’s College London is both academically demanding and exceptionally competitive. As one of the UK’s most established medical schools – and consistently ranked among the top institutions globally for Medicine in the QS World University Rankings – King’s attracts thousands of high-achieving applicants each year for a limited number of places on its Medicine (A100) programme.
Understanding the entry requirements in detail is therefore an important first step. From academic grades and the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) to your personal statement and interview performance, every component of your application plays a role in determining whether you are shortlisted. Below, we break down all the KCL Medicine entry requirements for a competitive application.
The KCL Medicine Application Process
Before diving into the entry requirements, let’s see what the KCL Medicine application process roughly looks like.
All applications for full-time undergraduate courses in the UK must be submitted online via UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
- Standard KCL application deadline: 29 January, 18:00 (UK time)
- Medicine and Dentistry deadline: 15 October, 18:00 (UK time)
Meeting the medicine deadline is essential, as late applications are not usually considered.
There are certain requirements that applicants must meet. The academic requirements, like GCSEs and predicted or achieved A-Levels (or alternative accepted qualifications), will be reviewed alongside your admissions test (UCAT) performance and other UCAS requirements (such as personal statement and reference) to determine whether you are shortlisted for interview. While KCL adopts a holistic approach to assessing applications, academic results and the UCAT score tend to carry greater weight at the shortlisting stage.
Once you move forward, the next step includes a round of interviews, where you’ll have the opportunity to further demonstrate your suitability for the course to the admissions team.
Additionally, many offers will be subject to additional conditions, such as grades and proof of English fluency (Band B), through English Language Proficiency Tests.
Early, effective preparation is the key to a successful KCL Medicine application.
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What Are The Core KCL Medicine Entry Requirements?
Now that you know what the application process for KCL Medicine looks like, let’s see what the academic and UCAS requirements are.
GCSEs
For applicants to KCL Medicine, a minimum of Grade 6 (B) in both English Language and Mathematics is expected.
Certain qualifications do not meet the GCSE requirement, including Functional Skills or Numeracy/Literacy modules completed as part of an Access to HE diploma.
Applicants who studied outside the UK and did not complete GCSEs or IGCSEs are not expected to have taken these specific exams. In these cases, KCL will consider international equivalents, and you will need to provide evidence demonstrating that your qualifications are comparable. More on this will be covered later on.
Meeting these requirements ensures that you have a good academic foundation to progress to the next stage of the highly competitive KCL Medicine admissions process.
A-Levels
A-Levels generally carry greater weight than GCSEs in the KCL Medicine admissions process. Your overall grades, subject choices, and performance in specific subjects will be key factors in determining whether you progress to the next stage of your application.
For standard entry to KCL Medicine (A100), applicants are typically expected to achieve A*AA at A-Level, with Grade A required in both Biology and Chemistry.
It’s important to note that certain A-Level subjects are not accepted as part of your offer, including General Studies, Critical Thinking, Thinking Skills, and Global Perspectives. Similarly, the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is not considered during the assessment process.
If you are studying linear A-Levels in England, you will also need to pass the practical endorsement in all science subjects. Private candidates who are unable to complete the practical component are exempt from this requirement.
Meeting these requirements demonstrates that you possess the academic rigor necessary to thrive in KCL’s challenging medical programme, and forms the first step in a highly competitive application process.
Alternative Qualifications
KCL accepts a wide range of alternative qualifications. These include:
IB
Overall score: 38 points, or 19 points from three Higher Level subjects
Required subjects: Grade 6 in Higher Level Biology and Higher Level Chemistry
Total score includes: Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Extended Essay (EE)
Access To HE Diploma
- Must be a 60-credit programme in Medicine or Dentistry from a QAA-accredited UK provider.
- 45 Level 3 credits required: 39 at Distinction, 6 at Merit.
- Must include at least 15 Level 3 credits in Biology at Distinction.
- Must include at least 15 Level 3 credits in Chemistry at Distinction.
Functional Skills and - Numeracy/Literacy modules do not meet the GCSE/IGCSE requirements.
Cambridge Pre-U
- Must achieve D2 D3 D3 in three Pre-U Principal subjects.
- D3 required in Biology and Chemistry Principal Subjects.
- Global Perspectives is not accepted as a Principal subject.
- Combinations with other qualifications (e.g., A-Levels) are allowed: required subject must meet D3 for Principal Subject or Grade A at A-Level (or equivalent).
Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers
- AAB at Higher (one sitting) and AA at Advanced Higher.
- Grade A required in Advanced Higher Chemistry and Advanced Higher Biology.
- Higher and Advanced Higher in the same subject are not counted twice.
GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics requirement can be met via:
- Intermediate 2 / Standard Grade 1 or 2 / National 5 with B
- If not studying at Higher/Advanced Higher level
International Qualifications
KCL accepts a wide range of equivalent international qualifications. If you hold a non-UK qualification, you should consult the university’s official page for exact country-specific accepted qualifications.
Personal Statement
A personal statement is a key element of the UCAS application. There are three questions that must be considered when crafting it:
- Why do you want to study this course or subject?
- How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
- What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?
Each question has a minimum character count of 350, with an overall character limit of 4,000 across the whole statement.
If you’ve never written a personal statement before, it can feel daunting, but there’s no need to worry. There are numerous free resources available online to guide you through the process. We strongly recommend starting with The Ultimate UCAS Personal Statement Guide 2025.
What Does KCL Look For In A Medicine Applicant?
When writing your personal statement (and during interview) for KCL Medicine, it is important to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the subject and an understanding of the demands and challenges of a medical career, both academically and professionally. This can be illustrated through relevant work experience or shadowing a medical professional.
KCL also values applicants who show active engagement beyond the classroom, so highlighting extracurricular activities can provide a competitive advantage.
Additionally, referencing books you have read can strengthen your statement, but only if you provide meaningful reflection on what you have learned and how it informs your motivation for medicine.
The key is to combine evidence of experience with thoughtful reflection, showing the admissions team that you understand the realities of a medical career and are fully committed to pursuing it.
Reference
The UCAS reference is a written recommendation from a teacher, adviser or professional who knows you academically. Everyone needs a reference when applying to universities through UCAS, and they must be completed before your UCAS application is submitted.
Having a strong UCAS reference and letter of recommendation is advantageous for your application as it gives admissions tutors a clear insight into what you are really like as a student.
UCAT Requirement & KCL Medicine UCAT Cut-Off
All applicants to KCL Medicine must sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) in the same year they apply.
King’s does not publish a fixed UCAT cut-off score or a “good” UCAT score. However, taking the test is mandatory, and your overall score across the four cognitive subtests is given more weight than the individual subtest results. The Situational Judgement Test (SJT) is also considered when shortlisting applicants.
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KCL Medicine Interview
Before KCL makes any offers, shortlisted applicants will be invited to a round of Multiple Mini interviews (MMI).
If you reach the interview stage, you will be assessed against your communication skills, exploring general social and ethical issues, normally health related, your general suitability for the programme and as a health professional, as well as how you will contribute to the university as a whole.
When Are Interviews Held?
Interviews at King’s College London typically take place between November and May. Applicants must be available during this period, as attendance is required in order to be considered for admission.
Post-interview decisions are usually communicated by the end of May.
KCL Medicine Acceptance Rate: How Competitive Is KCL Medicine?
We have gathered some of the latest available admissions statistics for KCL Medicine (A100).
For the 2022-2024 UCAS cycles, KCL Medicine received a total number of 9,970 applications. From these, 3,199 (32.1%) applicants were shortlisted for interview, 1,960 (19.7%) received offers, and 1,003 (10.1%) accepted their offer.
These figures highlight just how competitive KCL Medicine is. With an interview rate of 32.1%, nearly 70% of applicants do not progress beyond the initial shortlisting stage. Of those who receive an offer, just over half ultimately take up their place. This means that securing an offer is a significant achievement in itself, but meeting the conditions and choosing to enrol remains equally competitive
Below is the detailed data for each admissions cycle, along with the three-year totals.
2024 UCAS Cycle
Applications: 2,810
Interviews: 982
Offers: 762
Acceptances: 332
Interview Rate: 35%
Offer Rate (per applicant): 27.1%
Offer Rate (per interviewee): 77.6%
Offer-holder Acceptance Rate: 43.6%
Overall Acceptance Rate: 11.8%
2023 UCAS Cycle
Applications: 3,457
Interviews: 1,116
Offers: 645
Acceptances: 341
Interview Rate: 32.3%
Offer Rate (per applicant): 18.7%
Offer Rate (per interviewee): 57.8%
Offer-holder Acceptance Rate: 52.9%
Overall Acceptance Rate: 9.9%
2022 UCAS Cycle
Applications: 3,703
Interviews: 1,101
Offers: 553
Acceptances: 330
Interview Rate: 29.7%
Offer Rate (per applicant): 14.9%
Offer Rate (per interviewee): 50.2%
Offer-holder Acceptance Rate: 59.7%
Overall Acceptance Rate: 8.9%
2022-2024 UCAS Cycles (3-Year Acceptance Rate)
Applications: 9,970
Interviews: 3,199
Offers: 1,960
Acceptances: 1,003
Interview Rate: 32.1%
Offer Rate (per applicant): 19.7%
Offer Rate (per interviewee): 61.3%
Offer-holder Acceptance Rate: 51.2%
Overall Acceptance Rate: 10.1%
How to Strengthen Your KCL Medicine Application
Given the level of competition, simply meeting the minimum entry requirements is rarely enough. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strength across all aspects of the selection process.
1. Aim Above the Minimum Academic Requirements
While the standard A-Level offer is A*AA (including Biology and Chemistry), competitive applicants often present strong GCSE profiles and consistent academic performance. Where possible, exceed the baseline rather than simply meeting it.
2. Prepare Strategically for the UCAT
Although King’s does not publish a fixed cut-off score, your overall performance in the UCAT is a major factor at the shortlisting stage. Preparation should focus on building speed, accuracy, and familiarity with question styles under timed conditions. Because the overall cognitive score is prioritised, balanced performance across sections is important.
3. Secure Meaningful Work Experience
Quality matters more than quantity. Whether through hospital shadowing, care home volunteering, or public-facing employment, you should be able to reflect clearly on:
- Communication with vulnerable individuals
- Ethical dilemmas or professional boundaries
- Teamwork in high-pressure environments
Admissions tutors are looking for insight and reflection, not just a list of activities.
4. Demonstrate Reflection in Your Personal Statement
Rather than stating that an experience “inspired” you, explain why and how it shaped your understanding of medicine. Show awareness of the realities of a medical career, including its emotional and academic demands.
5. Prepare Thoroughly for the MMI
The Multiple Mini Interview assesses communication skills, ethical reasoning, and professional judgement. Practising scenario-based questions, healthcare ethics discussions, and role-play stations can significantly improve confidence and performance.
Final Thoughts: Is KCL Medicine Right for You?
Medicine at King’s College London offers a rigorous academic environment within one of the world’s leading healthcare hubs. Studying in London provides exposure to diverse patient populations and complex clinical settings, which can be invaluable for developing as a future doctor.
However, bear in mind that medicine is among the hardest degrees and this course is no exception. The workload is intensive, competition is high, and resilience is essential. Before applying, it is important to honestly assess whether you are prepared for the academic challenge, emotional responsibility, and long-term commitment required in medicine.
If you are motivated by patient care, intellectually curious about science, and ready to commit to years of disciplined study and training, KCL Medicine can provide an outstanding foundation for your medical career.
If you’re still weighing your options, check out our other medicine entry requirements guides:
If you’re still weighing your options, check out our other medicine entry requirements guides:
Get an offer to study Medicine at King’s College London
Applying to KCL and other medical schools can be complex and competitive. Give yourself the best chance of success with expert support from UniAdmissions. We will help you craft the perfect Personal Statement, achieve a highly competitive UCAT score and Interview effectively – covering all areas of your application.
Discover our Standard Medicine Full-Blue Programme for comprehensive admissions support by clicking the button below to enrol and maximise your chances of success.
FAQs
Do I Need To Have Work Experience Before I Apply For KCL Medicine?
Yes, you should have some sort of relevant work experience and/or observation by the time you submit your application. Ideally, this would be in a caring environment or a medical setting, providing insight into patient care and the healthcare profession.
If you do not have direct medical experience, alternative work experience involving interaction with the public (such as in a pharmacy, retail, or hospitality role) will also be considered. While not a replacement for clinical insight, such experience can help demonstrate communication skills, responsibility, and empathy, all of which are valued by the admissions team.
Are There Other Requirements Or Restrictions I Should Be Aware Of?
Applicants must turn 18 before the start of the second year of the Medicine programme.
In addition, successful applicants must complete:
- Occupational Health clearance
- An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
These checks are required before enrolment and may be necessary throughout the programme to ensure continued suitability for clinical training.
