BMAT: What are the Changes from 2024/25?
Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing announced in November, that from the academic year 2024/25, they will be withdrawing the BMAT.
Currently one of the medical school admissions tests available to students, Cambridge announced their decision based on the fact that:
“The bespoke tests are operationally unsustainable over the medium term, given their significant complexity and the need to deliver them affordably to students and higher education institutions.”
Source: https://www.admissionstesting.org/
Which medical schools currently require the BMAT?
While the UCAT remains the admissions test for the majority of medical schools in the UK, there are seven medical schools in the UK that currently use BMAT tests as part of their assessment criteria. Each medical school has different scoring requirements alongside their other entry requirements. The following schools that use the BMAT are:
- Brighton and Sussex
- Imperial College London
- Lancaster University
- Leeds University
- University of Cambridge
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Oxford
It is important to note that for 2023 admissions, there will be no change to the current assessment process and students should continue to prepare to sit the BMAT if the medical school requires it.
The medical schools listed above are currently investigating alternative arrangements for students looking to apply for the academic year 2024/25 and beyond. These changes are likely to be communicated well in advance so if you are considering applying for the 2024 intake, do not panic!
What if I am applying to a university abroad?
If you live in the UK and are considering studying abroad, there are a number of international institutions that list the BMAT as part of their admissions process. These are:
- CEU Cardenal Herrera University
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
- Medical University of Gdańsk
- Medical University of Warsaw
- Universidad de Navarra
- University of Pécs
- University of Rijeka
- University of Tartu
- University of Zagreb
International students studying in the UK
If you are an international student thinking of studying medicine in the UK, you should be largely unaffected. At present, only Keele University requires international candidates to take the BMAT. However, it would be worth checking with the institutions where you are thinking of applying.
Applying for a medical school requiring BMAT in 2024 and beyond
While these medical schools have not yet decided on their admissions criteria for the academic year 2024/25, it is likely that these will be communicated in plenty of time to allow you to fully prepare.
It is also likely that candidates will be required to sit an alternative medical admissions test such as the UCAT.
How should I start preparing for my medical school application in 2024?
For now, it is important to concentrate on getting the best grades in your A-Levels (or equivalent qualifications). For BMAT tips and advice, you can read the articles on preparing for A-Level Biology, how to get an A* in Chemistry, essential maths skills needed for A-Level Physics, and more on our sister site, Study Mind.
You may also be interested in reading our UCAT articles, which will help you to start thinking about the types of knowledge and skills you will be required to demonstrate in a medical admissions test.
Frequently Asked Question
→What is the BMAT?
The BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) is a standardised test used by universities in the UK and other countries to assess the potential of applicants for medical, dental, and other related programmes. It is designed to test skills and knowledge in problem-solving, critical thinking, and scientific reasoning.
→Why are the changes being made to the BMAT?
The CAAT have announced that they will be discontinuing the BMAT. Most universities previously requiring the BMAT now require candidates to take the UCAT.
→What are the changes to the BMAT from 2024/25?
The BMAT testing requirements from the 2024/25 admissions cycle have changed. The BMAT has been discontinued. Thismeasn that students applying for entry to medical school in 2025 will be required to sit an alternative exam. Most universities now require students to sit the UCAT. Please double check on university websites for their specific admissions criteria.
→When will the changes to the BMAT take effect?
The discontinuation of the BMAT will take effect from the 2024/25 admissions cycle. Candidates wishing to apply for medical school for entry in 2025 will need to check with their chosen universities about the updated admissions process.
→How will the changes to the BMAT affect applicants?
If students are required to take the UCAT (instead of the BMAT), this requires applicants to prepare differently for the test. With less emphasis on scientific knowledge and more emphasis on critical thinking skills, candidates sitting the test will need to prepare thoroughly for the UCAT in order to receive a competitive score.
AnonymousMedic Mind Tutor
6 January 2024
How would you suggest revising for the new BMAT?