Year 11 and Year 12 Students considering medicine or a health‑related degree?

Medicine and healthcare continue to be popular and rewarding career pathways, but entry into these courses is highly competitive and requires early planning. Students interested in medicine are encouraged to focus on strong academic performance, particularly in science and mathematics subjects, while also building experiences that demonstrate commitment to helping others.

Volunteering, health‑related activities, and exposure to healthcare environments can all help students better understand the realities of the profession and strengthen future applications.

Understanding the UCAT

Many universities require the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) for entry into medicine, dentistry, and some other clinical degrees. The UCAT does not test school curriculum content, but instead assesses reasoning, decision‑making, numerical skills, and professional judgement.

Most students sit the UCAT in Year 12, and universities consider results alongside ATAR, subject prerequisites, and interviews. Students considering medicine should familiarise themselves early with UCAT requirements and key dates.

Why having a Plan B is important

Given the competitive nature of medicine, having an alternative plan is encouraged. Some universities provide pathways to alternative medicine through the Faculty of Health Sciences.

Many students begin in related degrees such as Bachelor of Biomedical Science, Health Science, Nursing, Pharmacy, or Psychology, and later apply for graduate‑entry medicine.

Others discover fulfilling careers across the broader healthcare sector.

Students should remember that an initial university offer doesn’t determine their success, as many paths lead to a healthcare career.

Helpful Tips

Health and medical careers require resilience, commitment, and thoughtful planning, but there are many pathways to success. Staying informed, attending university open days and specific course information sessions, seeking guidance, and keeping options open can help students navigate their journey with confidence.

Families are encouraged to engage in ongoing conversations with students about goals, wellbeing, and alternative pathways as interests develop.