Unlocking the UCAT - The Ultimate Guide

Previously known as the UKCAT, the UCAT (an abbreviation for University Clinical Aptitude Testis) is an admission test required by many universities offering dentistry or medicine. Applicants must sit this test before submitting their UCAS application. Please note, not all dental schools require this so do check their website for more information.

This is a computer-based test typically allowing students to sit the exam between July and October. Do note, this test can only be taken ONCE an application cycle so it is crucial to be as prepared as you can before your test.

NOTE: Due to recent events, the UCAT can now be taken online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Candidates can complete the test at home using the Pearson VUE’s online proctoring service (OnVUE) or at a Pearson VUE Test Centre (check on test centre opening times however, this may be limited due to social distancing measures).

UCAT universities

At the time of writing, the following universities require UCAT as part of the application process.

- Birmingham

- Cardiff

- Dundee

- Edinburgh

- King’s College London

- Liverpool

- Manchester

- Nottingham

- Plymouth

- Queen’s University Belfast

- Sheffield

- Queen Mary- University of London

What to expect from the UCAT?

There are 5 sections in the test and they are conducted under timed conditions. The sections are as followed:

1. Verbal reasoning – Presented with a bulk of text and tested on whether specific conclusions can be made from the passage. Typically 21minutes allowed for 44 questions

2. Decision making – Can be presented with diagrams, charts and tables and expected to reach a conclusion or analyse information. For example, if a mentioned statement is ‘True’ or ‘False’ based on the information presented. Typically 31minutes for 29 questions.

3. Quantitate reasoning – Processing numerical information through tables and charts. Often working out percentages, ratios, fractions etc. (It is highly recommended you practice on mental maths to speed up calculations!) Typically 24minutes for 36 questions.

4. Abstract reasoning – Pattern spotting through diagrams or sequences i.e ‘What comes next in the sequence’. Typically 13minutes for 55 questions.

5. Situational judgement – Ethics based section providing various scenarios in the healthcare setting. Ranking responses to most appropriate to least appropriate or importance. Typically 26minutes for 69 questions.

More information can be found on the UCAT official website here

Key UCAT test dates 2020

- Registration: 1st July 2020

- Bursary application deadline:  30th September 2020

- Testing begins: 1st August 2020

- Last test date:  1st October 2020

Please note that all dates are subject to change.