The University of London is a federal institution comprising 17 independent member colleges. While the central University of London does not operate its own medical school, several of its constituent colleges are home to world-renowned medical schools. This means that when you apply to study medicine through the University of London, you are actually applying to one of its affiliated colleges. In this guide, we’ll explore which colleges offer medical programs, how to apply, and what makes each unique.
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Which University of London Colleges Have Medical Schools?
Below is a list of University of London colleges that offer undergraduate and postgraduate medical degrees. Each has its own campus, teaching hospitals, and admission criteria.
| College | Medical School Name | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| University College London (UCL) | UCL Medical School | Consistently ranked among the top medical schools globally; strong research focus |
| King’s College London | King’s College London School of Medicine | One of the largest medical schools in Europe; affiliate hospitals include Guy’s and St Thomas’ |
| Queen Mary University of London | Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry | History dating back to 1123; strong clinical exposure in East London |
| St George’s, University of London | St George’s, University of London Medical School | Only UK university dedicated to medicine and health sciences; located in Tooting |
| Imperial College London | Imperial College School of Medicine | Left University of London in 2007 but still part of its legacy; world-class research |
Note: Imperial College London was formerly a member of the University of London but is now independent. However, its medical school remains highly relevant to the topic.
How to Apply to Medical Schools Within the University of London
Applications for undergraduate medicine (MBBS or equivalent) are made through UCAS. You will apply directly to the college you wish to attend. All UK medical schools require the UCAT or BMAT exam, depending on the institution.
Key Application Steps for University of London Medical Schools
- Research colleges: Compare entry requirements, teaching styles, and location. For example, UCL requires BMAT, while King’s uses UCAT.
- Prepare for admissions tests: Register for UCAT or BMAT early. Each college has specific score thresholds.
- Write a personal statement: Tailor it to your chosen college’s values, but keep it generic enough for UCAS.
- Attend interviews: Most colleges use Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs). Practice common scenarios.
- Check international requirements: Non-UK students may need additional English language tests like IELTS.
Comparing Medical Programs: UCL vs King’s vs Queen Mary vs St George’s
Each medical school offers a distinct experience. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide.
UCL Medical School
Located in central London, UCL Medical School is renowned for its research-intensive curriculum. The MBBS program lasts six years and includes a BSc intercalated degree. UCL is particularly strong in neuroscience, cancer, and global health. Entry is highly competitive—typically requiring top A-level grades and a high BMAT score.
King’s College London School of Medicine
King’s offers a five-year MBBS program with early clinical exposure. It has major teaching hospitals like Guy’s, St Thomas’, and King’s College Hospital. King’s is known for its focus on leadership and innovation in healthcare. The university also offers a Graduate Entry Medicine program (four years).
Barts and The London (Queen Mary)
Barts and The London School of Medicine offers a five-year MBBS with a unique spiral curriculum. Students benefit from clinical placements in East London’s diverse population. Barts also offers a Gateway to Medicine program for widening participation. The school has a strong emphasis on community medicine.
St George’s, University of London
St George’s is unique as a health sciences specialist institution. Its MBBS program is five years, with a focus on integrated learning and early patient contact. St George’s shares a campus with a major hospital, providing seamless clinical exposure. It also offers a four-year graduate entry program.
Frequently Asked Questions About University of London Medical Schools
Does the University of London itself award medical degrees?
No, the central University of London does not award medical degrees. Individual colleges award their own degrees, which are recognized globally.
Can international students apply to University of London medical schools?
Yes, all listed colleges accept international students. However, competition is fierce, and tuition fees are higher for non-UK residents.
What is the difference between MBBS and MBChB?
Both are equivalent medical degrees. MBBS stands for Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery; MBChB is Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (used by some universities). University of London colleges typically use MBBS.
Do I need to take the BMAT or UCAT for these medical schools?
It depends on the college. UCL requires BMAT; King’s and Queen Mary require UCAT; St George’s requires UCAT for standard entry and BMAT for graduate entry. Always check the latest requirements.
Are there any postgraduate medical degrees offered?
Yes, all colleges offer a range of postgraduate taught and research degrees, such as MSc in Clinical Medicine, MRes, and PhD programs.
How do I choose between these medical schools?
Consider factors like teaching style (problem-based vs traditional), location, hospital affiliations, research opportunities, and admissions test requirements. Visit open days if possible.
Practical Checklist for Aspiring Medical Students
- Confirm eligibility: Check academic prerequisites and any subject requirements (e.g., Chemistry and Biology A-levels).
- Register for admissions tests: UCAT registration opens in May; BMAT in September. Don’t miss deadlines.
- Prepare a strong personal statement: Highlight relevant experience, motivation, and skills. Avoid clichés.
- Research each college’s interview style: Practice MMIs with friends or online resources.
- Plan finances: Tuition fees for international students range from £40,000 to £55,000 per year. Scholarships are limited.
- Consider location: London is expensive but offers unparalleled clinical diversity and networking opportunities.
Final Recommendations for Prospective Applicants
If you’re asking, “Does the University of London have a medical school?”, the answer is a resounding yes—through its constituent colleges. Each offers a world-class education, but they differ in structure and focus. Start early, prepare thoroughly for admissions tests, and choose a college that aligns with your career goals. Remember, applying to multiple University of London medical schools is possible through UCAS (you can choose up to four medicine choices). Good luck!
Photo by Jack White on Unsplash
What about graduate entry medicine? Do any of these colleges offer accelerated programs?
Yes, several offer graduate entry programs. For example, King’s and St George’s have four-year accelerated MBBS courses for graduates. Check each college’s website for specific entry requirements.
Does the central University of London offer any medical degrees at all?
No, the central University of London does not offer medical degrees. You must apply to one of its constituent colleges that have medical schools.
I noticed Imperial College London left the University of London in 2007. Can I still consider it as part of the University of London for applications?
Imperial is now independent, so it’s not part of the University of London. However, its medical school is still relevant historically. For applications, treat it as a separate university.
So if I apply to study medicine through the University of London, I’m actually applying to one of its colleges like UCL or King’s? That clears up a lot of confusion.
Exactly. The University of London is a federation, so you apply directly to the college that hosts the medical school. Each has its own admissions process.
I’m an international student. Are there extra requirements for applying to these medical schools?
Yes, most require proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS) and may have different fee structures. Also, some colleges have limited places for international students, so research each college’s policy.
This guide is really helpful. I’m applying through UCAS this year. Any tips for the personal statement when applying to multiple University of London colleges?
Since you apply through UCAS with one personal statement, focus on your motivation for medicine and keep it broad enough to fit all colleges. Avoid naming specific colleges; instead, highlight qualities valued across medical schools.
Do all these medical schools require the UCAT, or do some still use BMAT?
It varies. UCL requires BMAT, while King’s, Queen Mary, and St George’s use UCAT. Always check the latest requirements on each college’s website as they can change.
Thanks for the breakdown of the different colleges. I’m torn between UCL and King’s. What’s the main difference in teaching style?
UCL has a strong research focus and uses problem-based learning, while King’s emphasizes early clinical exposure through its large hospital network. Both are excellent—consider which environment suits you better.