5 Things You Should Be Doing NOW if You're Applying to Medical School This Year
- miriamsch
- May 20
- 3 min read
If you’re applying to medical school this year, the best thing you can do right now is get organised.
With the UCAS deadline in October, and the UCAT fast approaching, this is the perfect time to set yourself up for a successful application — without burning out.
Here are 5 practical things every aspiring medic should be doing this term and summer:
Start UCAT Prep — And Plan Your Test Date
The UCAT is the first big hurdle in applying to medical school, and it matters a lot. Some medical schools rank applicants almost entirely by their UCAT score.
If you haven’t already, now is the time to:
Start preparing section-by-section (especially Verbal and Decision Making, which students normally find the hardest)
Create a realistic revision plan — and stick to it
Write down your ideal test date AND a backup
Make a list of test locations near you, as some centres book up quickly
📅 The UCAT testing window runs from July to late September, but early dates often go first — don’t leave it too late.
Make Sure You’ve Got Work Experience and Volunteering
It’s not too late, but time is running out. You’ll need to show that you understand the reality of a career in medicine — and that comes from experience.
What counts?
Shadowing a doctor
Volunteering at care homes, charities, food banks, or schools
Online placements
Paid work in healthcare or customer service settings
💡 Pro tip: It’s not about the setting — it’s about what you learn and how you reflect on it. (See point 4 👇)
Don’t Forget About Your A-Level Exams
Yes, the UCAT is important. Yes, work experience is helpful. But your A-level grades are still the most important part of your medical school application.
Most offers are conditional on AAA or A*AA, and many universities will not accept retakes.
Now is the time to:
Organise your revision notes
Identify your weakest subject(s)
Set mini goals alongside UCAT prep
Stay consistent — don’t burn out, but don’t fall behind
🎯 A great UCAT score won’t help much if you miss the grade requirements.
Reflect on What You’ve Done So Far
Medical schools are looking for insightful, self-aware applicants — not just students with long CVs.
Start keeping a short reflection log or notes app and write about:
What you observed or learned during work experience
Moments that confirmed your motivation to study medicine
Skills you’ve developed (communication, resilience, empathy, etc.)
This will make your personal statement and interviews MUCH easier to prepare when the time comes.
Rest — Seriously. Rest.
We know you’re ambitious. We know you want to get ahead. But we also know that Year 13 is tough — and you’ll need your energy.
Take some time this summer to:
Relax
Spend time with friends and family
Do things you enjoy
Switch off from medicine for a bit
💬 Burnt-out students don’t perform well in the UCAT — or in school.
Rest isn’t a reward, it’s part of the strategy.
Want Help Building a Personalised Plan?
At T&M Tutoring, our team of doctors and medical students help students:
✔ Prep for the UCAT with proven strategies
✔ Choose the right test date and timeline
✔ Balance school, prep, and rest
✔ Build confident, successful applications
Book a strategy meeting with us today — and we’ll help you map it all out.
Or download our free UCAT Starter Pack for tools, timelines, and tips:👉 Download here
