What A Levels Do You Need for Medicine? A Simple Guide

If you’re thinking about becoming a doctor, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: What A Levels Do You Need for Medicine? It’s a big decision and getting it right can shape your entire future.

Your A level choices don’t just show what you’re good at. They also lay the groundwork for your medical school application and future studies. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know. From the essential subjects to avoidable mistakes, we’ll help you and your parents understand how to make confident, well-informed choices.

What Is A Level Medicine?

You might hear people talk about “A level medicine,” but it’s not an actual course. Instead, it refers to what A Levels do you need for medicine.

Think of it as the academic path that prepares you for a degree in medicine. These subjects show universities that you have the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a future doctor. Choosing the right A levels is the first big step on your journey to medicine and it can make all the difference later on.

What A Levels Do You Need for Medicine? The Essentials

When applying to study medicine, most universities in the UK expect specific A levels. Choosing the right ones will keep your options open and show you’re serious about a medical career.

Here are the key subjects you’ll need:

• Chemistry – This is required by nearly all medical schools. It forms the backbone of many topics in medicine.
• Biology – Usually required or strongly recommended. It helps you understand how the human body works.
• A third subject – Maths or Physics are good choices, but not always essential. Some students also pick Psychology or a language.

Why Are These A Levels Important for Medicine?

Each A level subject you choose plays a key role in preparing you for medical school and life as a doctor.

• Chemistry helps you understand drug interactions, chemical reactions in the body, and how treatments are developed. It’s essential for studying biochemistry and pharmacology later on.
• Biology gives you a clear understanding of human anatomy, cells, organs, and diseases. You’ll use this knowledge throughout your medical training.
• Maths builds your data skills. From analysing test results to understanding statistics in research, it’s used more often than you might think.
• Physics helps with understanding how machines like MRI scanners work. It’s also useful for exploring how the body moves and responds to forces.

These subjects don’t just tick boxes. They prepare you for the science behind healthcare, the very things doctors deal with every day.

Which A Levels Give You the Best Chance?

If you want to maximise your chances of getting into medical school, it’s important to choose a strong subject combination. Chemistry and Biology are essential for most universities, so starting with those two puts you on the right track. This is also true if you’re considering related healthcare fields like dentistry, which has similar foundation requirements.

For your third subject, many top universities prefer Maths or Physics. These subjects show that you can handle logical thinking and complex problem-solving, both of which are valuable in medicine.

That said, if you’re stronger in another subject like Psychology, English, or a modern language, you can still be a competitive applicant as long as you have Chemistry and Biology.

It also helps to include what universities call a “facilitating subject.” These are traditional academic subjects like Maths, Physics, English Literature, History, or Geography. They show that you’re capable of academic rigour and can help your application stand out.

In the end, the best subject combination is one that plays to your strengths, keeps your options open, and reflects your genuine interest in science and healthcare.

What A Levels Do You Need for Medicine? Subjects to Avoid

While most A levels can support your learning, not all are valued equally by medical schools. Some subjects won’t count towards your offer, even if you get a high grade.

General Studies and Critical Thinking are two examples. They don’t provide the academic depth that universities are looking for in medical applicants. Because of this, most medical schools simply ignore them when making offers.

You should also avoid choosing too many similar or soft subjects. For instance, combining subjects like Media Studies, Photography, and Drama might limit your options. Even if you enjoy them, they don’t show the scientific skills that medicine requires. That doesn’t mean you can’t study something you love, just make sure it’s balanced with strong, relevant subjects like Chemistry and Biology.

What A Levels Do Top UK Medical Schools Require?

Different universities have slightly different entry requirements, but most follow the same core expectations. Here’s a quick look at what some of the UK’s top medical schools expect from applicants:

As you can see, Chemistry is required by all five, while Biology is required or strongly preferred. A third subject like Maths or Physics can strengthen your application, but it’s not always essential. Before choosing your subjects, always check the latest entry requirements on each university’s official website. Requirements can change slightly year to year.

Medical School Admission Tests

Alongside your A levels, most UK medical schools ask you to take an admission test. The two main ones are the UCAT and the BMAT.

The UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is the most common. It tests things like decision-making, problem-solving, and how you handle pressure rather than your subject knowledge.

The BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) is used by fewer universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial. It includes a science section, so your A levels in Chemistry, Biology, and Maths can really help here.

Even though these tests are different from your usual exams, your A level skills will still support you. Subjects like Maths and Science improve your speed, accuracy, and critical thinking, all of which are useful when answering test questions quickly.

To do well, start preparing early. You don’t need to revise every day, but regular practice will help you feel more confident. Try using past papers, online question banks, and time yourself as you go.

Additional Factors in Medical School Admissions

A levels are just one part of your application. Medical schools look at the whole picture and there are a few more things they’ll consider carefully.

Your GCSE grades matter, especially in subjects like Maths, English, and Science. Most universities expect a high number of top grades, so doing well at GCSE gives you a stronger foundation.

The personal statement is your chance to show why you want to be a doctor. It should highlight your motivation, commitment, and what you’ve done to explore the profession. Keep it honest and reflective, not just a list of achievements.

Work experience is also important. You don’t need to shadow a surgeon, but volunteering in a care home or hospital can show that you understand what caring for people really means. Even part-time jobs or helping in your community can be valuable.

Finally, the interview. Some universities use traditional interviews, while others use MMIs (Multiple Mini Interviews). Either way, they want to see how well you communicate, how you think under pressure, and how you understand ethical issues. All of these factors together help universities decide if you’re ready for the challenge of studying medicine.

What A Levels Do You Need for Medicine? Choosing the Right School

Choosing a medical school is just as important as choosing your A levels. Each university has its own style, and finding the right fit can make your journey much smoother.

Start by thinking about the course structure. Some universities follow a traditional model, where you study theory first and move on to clinical experience later. Others use an integrated course, where science and clinical work are blended from the start. If you enjoy learning in stages and focusing on theory first, a traditional course might suit you. But if you prefer hands-on learning early on, integrated courses offer patient contact in the first year.

You should also consider the location. Do you want to study close to home or explore a new city? Think about travel, accommodation, and how far you’d be from friends and family. Finally, look at the teaching style. Some universities rely on lectures, while others use problem-based learning or group work. Pick the approach that matches your learning style best.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best medical school is the one where you’ll feel supported, motivated, and ready to thrive.

Conclusion: What A Levels Do You Need for Medicine?

Pursuing a career in medicine is a big step but with the right A levels and some thoughtful preparation, it’s completely achievable. Whether you already know you want to be a doctor or you’re still exploring your options, making informed subject choices now can open doors later.

Remember, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. If you’re feeling unsure or need extra support with tough subjects like Chemistry or Biology, online tutors can make a real difference. They can help you build confidence, improve your grades, and guide you through the application process.

Medicine is a challenging path, but it’s also one of the most rewarding careers out there. With determination, curiosity, and the right support, you’re more than capable of making it happen.

FAQs

What A Levels Do You Need for Medicine?

You need Chemistry and usually Biology. A third subject like Maths, Physics, or a facilitating subject is recommended.

What A levels do you need for medicine at Oxford?

Oxford requires Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics, or Maths. A third academic subject is also needed.

Which subjects are best for a doctor?

What A Levels do you need for medicine? The best subjects are Chemistry and Biology. Maths or Physics can strengthen your application but aren’t always required.

How many levels are there in medicine?

In the UK, medicine is studied at university level. Before that, you need strong GCSEs and A levels to apply.