Applying to study Medicine can be a daunting experience, especially for international students like me, coming from a different educational curriculum. I faced unique challenges but also learned some valuable lessons through my journey of getting into med school. I’m sharing some tips that might make this journey more beautiful and easier for you!

Understanding the application process

The first and most important step of starting your journey is research! You should thoroughly look into the schools you have shortlisted. The main criteria to judge them would be the course content and structure, teaching pattern, fees and funding, and the reputation of the university. Queen’s ticked all of these boxes for me. I am a practical learner and they offer the best hands on experience and a lot of patient exposure!

"Queen's offers the best hands on experience and a lot of patient exposure"

Next, look at the entry requirements. For most UK medical schools, you need to sit an entrance test called the UCAT. There are plenty of free and paid resources available online to prepare for the exam. I personally used Medify. They have video lectures explaining each section of the exam and also give tips. There are also a lot of practice questions and question banks available on their website.

You will also require a personal statement detailing your passion for the course. It is worth including any relevant work experience, volunteer work and extracurricular activities. You should outline why you would be the best candidate for medicine. In addition, you will need letters of recommendation and predicted grades from your school teachers.

Queen's is 1st in the UK for career prospects for Medicine (Guardian University Guide 2025)

Once you fill in your application and are shortlisted, you will be called for an interview. Most of the universities go for multiple mini interviews (MMIs). The first time I ever heard about them was during my med school application. While they seem scary at that stage, if I reflect now, they are much easier than traditional interviews. Give yourself enough time to prepare for them, and take the help of your friends and family. 

Find out more about MMIs

If you are selected, depending on whether you already have your grades or not, you will be made a conditional or unconditional offer. While these steps might be common to every university, the grades required to get in are different. These are outlined in your offer letter.

I still remember Queen’s was my first interview call and the first offer I received, which makes my journey here just a little bit more special.

Tips to make your application process easier

Start early

Start looking into universities and preparing for your entrance exam well in advance. The application process can be lengthy but starting early avoids any last minute panic.

Check out Medicine facilities at Queen's!

Be organised

Note down all deadlines clearly and remember them! Missing a deadline can jeopardise your application.

Find a good counsellor

The right support and guidance can the application process so much easier! You can also reach out to current international students and ask them for advice.  I am an Indian student and TC Global helped me with my application. I would definitely recommend trying them!

Find out more about studying Medicine at Queen's

Build your resume

Your CV should be more than just medicine. Engage in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, etc. and show your creative side.

Don’t lose your focus

The journey to med school can be demanding. You might face rejection which could be discouraging. But it is very important to stay focused and keep your eye on the goal. Be prepared for setbacks with resilience.

Lastly, just remember that patience, perseverance and preparation along with a side of positive attitude, will take you a long way!

Find out more

Medicine at Queen's

India: Admissions Guide

Manya Ranganathan  Medicine | Undergraduate Student | India I am in my third year of medical school at Queen’s. It has been an enjoyable few years in Belfast with lots of study sessions in the McClay, discovering new parts of the city and working together with my peers. I am an international student from Delhi, India but the wonderful people I have met and the friends I’ve made make Belfast seem like home.