Table of Content:
- Understanding the Pathways: UCAT vs GAMSAT
- Key Dates for 2026 Undergraduate Medicine Entry
- Top Universities Offering Undergraduate Medicine
- Tips for a Successful Application
- FAQs
Understanding the Pathways: UCAT vs GAMSAT
Undergraduate Entry (via UCAT)
Most students apply for undergraduate medicine straight out of high school. These programs typically require:
- UCAT ANZ: The University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand
- ATAR or equivalent
- Interviews (MMI or structured panel)
Graduate Entry (via GAMSAT)
For those applying after completing a university degree, graduate-entry medicine requires:
- GAMSAT: The Graduate Medical School Admissions Test
- Bachelor's degree
- Interviews
Key Dates for 2026 Undergraduate Medicine Entry
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 13 May (09:30 BST) | UCAT account creation opens Bursary and Access Arrangement applications open |
| 17 June (06:00 BST) | UCAT booking opens |
| 7 July | UCAT testing begins |
| 16 September (12:00 BST) | Access Arrangement application deadline |
| 19 September (12:00 BST) | UCAT booking deadline UCAT account creation closes |
| 26 September | Last day to sit the UCAT |
| 26 September (16:00 BST) | Bursary Scheme application deadline |
| 15 October | UCAS application deadline (for UK medicine applicants) |
| Early November | UCAT results delivered to universities |
🎓 Tertiary Admissions Centre (TAC) Deadlines
Applications for undergraduate medicine are submitted via different TACs depending on the university and state. Here are some common ones:
UAC (NSW/ACT)
- Applications Open: April 2025
- On-time Deadline: Late September 2025
- Final Deadline: December 2025 (late fees apply)
VTAC (VIC)
- Applications Open: August 2025
- On-time Deadline: Late September 2025
SATAC (SA/NT) & QTAC (QLD)
- Similar deadlines to UAC/VTAC — typically August to September.
🎤 Interview Dates
Most universities conduct interviews between October 2025 and January 2026, after UCAT results are released.
- MMIs (Multiple Mini Interviews) are common
- Some may require online interviews via Zoom or other platforms
Some universities only invite applicants with high UCAT + ATAR combinations, so keep an eye on individual uni websites.
📚 ATAR Release and Final Offers
- ATAR Released (NSW): Mid-December 2025
- Change of Preferences Closes: A few days after ATAR release
- January Round Offers: Early January 2026
Top Universities Offering Undergraduate Medicine
Some of the universities that use UCAT and offer undergraduate medicine in Australia:
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- University of Adelaide
- University of Newcastle / University of New England (Joint Program in Medicine)
- Western Sydney University / Charles Sturt University (Joint Program)
- Monash University (VIC)
- Curtin University (WA)
- University of Tasmania
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early – From UCAT prep to researching universities, give yourself time.
- Ace the UCAT – It’s a major part of the selection process.
- Balance academics and UCAT – Maintain strong school performance while preparing for the test.
- Prepare for interviews – Practice MMIs, ethical dilemmas, and communication skills.
- Seek support – Tutors, teachers, and KIS mentors can make a big difference.
💬 Final Thoughts
Applying for medicine in 2026 may seem daunting, but with early preparation and the right guidance, it’s absolutely achievable. Whether you're eyeing Monash, UNSW, or any other university, knowing the timelines and staying organised gives you a strong head start.
At KIS Academics, we’ve helped thousands of students maximise their UCAT scores, craft compelling applications, and ace interviews. Book a free consultation today to get started, or check out these other KIS Academics articles:
Manoj Arachige
Manoj Arachige
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FAQs
What are the pre-requisites for Medicine?
- ATAR (or equivalent): Extremely competitive (often 95–99+ at top universities). IB scores are also accepted.
- UCAT ANZ: Most universities require a University Clinical Aptitude Test score, sat mid-year before applying.
- Interview: Most applicants invited based on ATAR + UCAT must complete an interview (MMI or panel). Some courses also require application questions or a portfolio.
- Prerequisite subjects: English is compulsory, and chemistry (sometimes maths or biology) is often required.
Are there alternative pathways to studying Medicine?
Consider alternate pathways:
- Enrol in a related health or science degree and apply for graduate entry.
- Some universities offer foundation programs for high-performing Year 12 students who narrowly miss entry.
- Apply to a broader range of universities, including those outside capital cities.
Are there adjustment factors for Medicine?
Yes, several universities reserve places or offer lower entry scores/extra support for Indigenous, regional/rural, and equity students. Tailored application processes and interviews may apply.
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