How do Universities use BMAT Results?

University of Cambridge

Cambridge generally interview roughly 90% of candidates, so the BMAT score isn’t necessarily a deciding factor of getting to the interview stage. The BMAT score is, however, taken into consideration for final acceptance, along with other factors such as GCSE attainment and interview performance. The weight of each factor varies for each college so asking the admissions office or contacts at the university is advisable.

University of Oxford

Oxford differs greatly from Cambridge. Oxford University tend to interview just 30% of candidates and place a 50/50 weight on GCSEs and BMAT. This can be a relief for some who graded fantastically on their GCSEs since this can counterbalance a subpar BMAT score. Oxford University places a higher weight on Section 1 & 2, 40% each, and 20% on Section 3; the tougher essay section.

Imperial College London

Imperial College differs from other universities in that it requires a candidate to hit a minimum score on every section. If a minimum threshold is not hit in Section 1, 2 or 3, then you will not secure an interview. This means consistency and ability across every section is equally important. The cut-off scores differ each year, but 2017 saw 4.5, 4.6 and 2.5 for Section 1, 2 and 3 respectively.

University College London

UCL is similar to Cambridge in its usage of the BMAT score. UCL place a fair weight on each part of the application process e.g. personal statement, GCSE grades and predicted A-level grades.

UCL have stated that “Candidates with scores that are below the average for their cohort are less likely to be successful”, meaning if you don’t do so well on your BMAT test then you are not necessarily out of the running, provided the rest of your application was stellar.

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS)

BSMS operates a strict cut-off point in considering an applicant’s suitability for interview. Applicants can score a maximum of 28 points, with Section 3 being allocated slightly more weighting than Sections 1 and 2.

University of Leeds

The University of Leeds does not operate a strict BMAT cut-off. They use a total score calculated from the sum of the scores in Sections 1, 2 and 3, with Section 3 given half the weighting of the first two sections. The Section 3 score is also taken into consideration during the interview stage of the selection process. Those in the top 20% of scores will receive the full mark available for this part of the application process, with those in the bottom 20% receiving the lowest mark available. Overall BMAT weighting is equivalent to 50% of the personal statement weighting and 15% of the academic scoring weighting.

Lancaster University

The overall BMAT score for each applicant is calculated by adding the total score for sections 1, 2 and 3 (Maximum Score – 23). The Section 3 Quality of English score is not taken into consideration when assessing applicants.

Keele University

Only international students hoping to study Medicine at Keele University are required to take the BMAT examination, and the results are used alongside one’s academic performance, personal statement and references in assessing candidates’ suitability. UK Medicine applicants are required to take the UCAT examination.

University of Manchester

Applicants may offer BMAT in lieu of Manchester’s standard entry requirements if they are classed as “Overseas” for tuition fees purposes, and have both studied and have, or will achieve, a U.S. High School Diploma (but do not have Scholastic Aptitude Test II or Advanced Placement qualifications which would satisfy their standard entry requirements).