How medical school works

• The early years combine science with early patient contact.
• Later years move to clinical placements in hospitals and general practice.
• Your school’s final assessments now include the UKMLA.

What to expect

• Early years usually combine science, communication skills and some patient contact.
• Later years are mostly clinical placements in hospitals and communities.
• Courses differ in structure, so read your own handbook.

Look after yourself and your friends. Medical school is demanding, and asking for help early is a sign of good judgement.

This page is general education, reviewed 27 October 2026. Rules, fees and dates change: always confirm with the official sources below. It is not medical, legal or immigration advice.