Admissions tests
All dental schools use an admissions test as part of their entry requirements.* There are two admissions tests. Dental schools each state on their websites which test they use. You might sit different combinations of these tests according to the dental schools you intend to include in your application. You can only sit each of the admission tests once in each application cycle. Results are automatically delivered to the schools you have applied for.
*Please note that the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) dental school does not use these tests and instead runs its own entrance exam as part of its selection procedure.
UCAT
The majority of dental schools use the University Clinical Aptitude Test or UCAT (formerly UKCAT). It is a computer-based test. You can find a full list of dental schools which use the UCAT on the UCAT website.
What it tests: Generic skills in problem solving and critical thinking, Scientific Knowledge and Application
Key dates (2021):
- 2 June – 22 September – registration period
- 28 June – test booking opens
- 26 July – 29 September – testing period
- Early November – Results sent to universities
Duration: 2 hours
Cost: £75. Bursaries are available to cover this cost for candidates from low income households.
Location: Applicants can book to sit the UCAT either at a local Pearson Vue Test Centre or remotely at home. See the UCAT website for more detail.
BMAT
Leeds Dental School uses the Biomedical Admissions Test or BMAT. In most years, you can choose to sit the test in September or November. Previously the BMAT was a pen and paper assessment but in 2020 it was computer-based.
What does it test: verbal, quantitative and abstract reasoning, as well as decision analysis and situational judgement
Key dates for September 2021:
- TBC – registration period
- TBC – test booking opens
- TBC – testing period
- TBC – Results sent to universities
Key dates for November 2021:
- TBC – registration period
- TBC – test booking opens
- TBC – testing period
- TBC – Results sent to universities
Duration: 2 hours
Cost: £59. Bursaries are available to cover this cost for candidates from low income households. Please note there may be separate late registration and appeal fee charges.
Location: You must take the test at a centre that is authorised to run Admissions Testing tests. It can be taken at your school/college if they are a registered centre. See the BMAT website for more detail.
How to prepare
Dental schools do not recommend or require applicants to invest in external paid courses or resources. You should use the practice materials available on the admission centre websites to help you prepare.
Bursaries for admissions tests
Both the UCAT and BMAT offer bursaries to cover test fees for applicants. This takes the form of a bursary voucher before the assessment or reimbursement. You will need to meet specific criteria to be eligible for these bursaries, see the links below.