TheA-LevelClinic

How to balance the UCAT and A-Levels

A practical guide for applicants and parents. Official dates last checked 31 October 2026.

Most medicine and dentistry applicants sit the UCAT in the summer between Year 12 and Year 13, so preparation overlaps with the end of Year 12. The UCAT matters, but it doesn't replace grades. Applicants need both, so plan them together.

Want to see how we do it? Watch the free 7-minute training, then book a free call if it feels right.

When is the UCAT?

In 2026, testing ran from 13 July to 24 September, and the booking deadline was 16 September. Results went to universities in early November. Dates for 2027 are due by February 2027, with booking instructions in March 2027. Always check the official UCAT website.

Is the UCAT required?

For many courses, yes. For 2027 entry, Nottingham medicine normally requires it, and King's and Birmingham dentistry both require it in the year of application. See the dentistry comparison.

How to fit both in

  1. Secure the subject knowledge first. Chemistry and Biology gaps are easier to fix before UCAT preparation gets busy.
  2. Book early in the window. Check available dates as soon as booking opens, so you have a choice.
  3. Use the summer well. It's the natural time for focused UCAT practice, with less school work competing.
  4. Keep A-Level work going. Don't drop it completely, especially if your school uses early Year 13 work for predicted grades.
  5. Plan around the deadline. For 2027 entry, most medicine and dentistry courses had a UCAS deadline of 15 October.

Where we can help

Our core work is A-Level Chemistry and Biology tutoring. We also support the wider application, including the UCAT, personal statement and interviews. Our tutors are current medicine and dentistry students who've recently been through it.

Related

"After just three lessons I went from under 10% to over 80% on the same test."

Omar, A-Level Chemistry

"You took your time explaining everything, and never made me feel dumb."

Asifah, A-Level Chemistry, who went from Grade C to Grade A

See how it works for your child

Watch the free training. In 7 minutes, you'll see why your child is stuck and the step-by-step way we fix it. Then you can book a free call.

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