St George’s University of London Medical School Guide

St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in London is a prestigious institution for aspiring doctors. It offers a range of medical programs, including a 5-year undergraduate course and a 4-year graduate entry program. Known for its vibrant, diverse community and excellent facilities, St George’s is a top choice for students seeking a dynamic and inclusive environment. The university’s central London location provides easy access to the city’s numerous cultural and professional opportunities.

Founded in 1733, St George’s has a long-standing tradition of medical education and is well-regarded for its focus on clinical experience and research. Positioned close to various London landmarks, the university benefits from a rich cultural backdrop. Read on to explore detailed information about entry requirements, course structures, student life at St George’s, and the resources available to support your application to this medical school!

St George’s University of London Medical School Entry Requirements

Academic

Requirement	Details
GCSEs	Generally, at least 5 GCSEs at grades 7-9 (A-A*) including English Language, Mathematics, and Sciences.
A-Levels	Typically requires A-Levels in Chemistry and Biology, plus a third subject. Minimum grade requirement is AAA.
IB (International Baccalaureate)	A minimum of 36 points, with at least 6 in Higher Level Chemistry and Biology.
Scottish Highers & Advanced Highers	Scottish Highers generally require AAAAB including Chemistry and Biology. Advanced Highers typically require Chemistry and Biology at grade A.
Bachelor’s Degree (for Graduate Entry)	For the 4-year Graduate Entry Program, a 2:1 degree in a relevant subject is typically required.

Widening Participation

SGUL offers contextual offers based on a set of criteria listed on their website. If the standard offer is AAA, a contextual offer will stand at ABB, though this can vary based on the student’s profile.

Admissions Test

St. George’s is a UCAT university and in order to progress to the interview stage, it is critical you get above the UCAT cut-off which varies slightly each year.

For the 5-year course, the UCAT cut-off was 2620 in 2023 for non-graduates. Competitive scores are advantageous and the UCAT score is considered alongside other aspects of the application, such as academic qualifications.

Work Experience

At St Georges, they do not request a specific number of hours of work experience to be undertaken, rather that candidates have an understanding of the realities of working as a healthcare professional and show they have the necessary skills and attributes for their chosen career. They value the quality and reflection of the work experience over the quantity and pplicants should be able to discuss their experiences meaningfully, showing insight into the medical profession and personal growth.

They recommend keeping a reflective diary where you can record your experiences and reflect on what you’ve taken and learnt throughout. Work experience is not a tick-box exercise, it is about what you have gained and how you, and your skill set, have grown. This is what medical schools want to know about relative to your work experience.

Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your opportunity to share your passion for studying medicine alongside demonstrating why you are the right candidate to become a medical student!

At St Georges, while they take the time to read your Personal Statement, it is not formally assessed or used to determine whether you will be invited to interview. However, it is useful to document your experiences and have some written down already so that you can talk about them at your interview.

Interview

Medicine interviews for SGUL usually start in November and run through to December. St George’s University uses the MMI format for its Medicine interviews. There are usually 6 to 8 MMI stations, with 5 minutes allotted to each station.

The following themes are commonly covered in Medicine interviews:

• Reason to Study Medicine
• Suitability for studying Medicine
• Dedication
• Medical current affairs and Hot Topics 
• Respect and morality.
• Working in a team
• Work experience

They normally start handing out post-interview offers in December and continue into January, and possibly February. The decision to make an offer will be based on performance at the interview and the SJT band score. The students who receive the top results will be awarded a spot to study.

Graduate Entry for St George’s University of London Medical School

SGUL offers one of the UK’s biggest graduate medicine course of four years. Applicants meeting the entry criteria are ranked based on their GAMSAT scores- both the section scores and overall cut-off score need to be met with a minimum of 50 in each individual section. A specific number of interviews are conducted each year, and interview places are allocated to applicants with the highest GAMSAT scores until filled.

If multiple applicants achieve the same GAMSAT score, the university may adjust the number of interviews to accommodate all eligible candidates. Invited applicants attend a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) stage, and their MMI scores are ranked. The highest-performing applicants in each group receive offers to study Medicine MBBS (graduate entry) at the university. Personal statements are not formally assessed and do not influence interview invitations.

International Students Entry Requirements for St George’s University of London Medical School

St Georges accepts qualifications from over 50 countries and attracts many international students. A full list of qualifications for each country from A-Z can be found on their website but generally, they must meet English proficiency standards and have the relevant equivalent qualifications as those coming from the UK.

Note: If you did not study GCSEs or iGCSEs in your country, they will need evidence that you have met their Maths and English Language requirements in another way and maths should be included in your Level 3 qualifications

International students must also sit the UCAT and for 2024 entry the UCAT cut off Score for overseas students was 2700.

How Many Places are there for Home and International Students at St George’s University of London Medical School?

For the 23/24 year there were 165 places available for home students and 19 for international students.

The five-year MBBS programme is subject to overseas and graduate number controls. For overseas students, the Government limits their overseas places to approximately 9% of the cohort. Also, to ensure they are offering enough places to undergraduate applicants (and because they have a graduate-only program too), they have a cap of approximately 25% on graduate students.

St George’s University of London Medical School Ranking

Ranked 28^th on the Complete University Guide medical school league table and 35^th on the Guardian medical school league table.

St George’s University of London Medical School Fees

As of the academic year 2023/24, the tuition fees for the Medicine MBBS5 course at St. George’s University of London are as follows:

Home Students: £9,250 per year

International Students: £40,500 per year

St George’s University of London Medical School Acceptance Rate

Out of 1291 home students’ applications for the 2023/24 academic year, 237 were given offers for standard entry while 181 were given offers for deferred entry. Therefore acceptance rate for home students at standard entry was: 18.3%

Out of 238 international students’ applications for the same year, 30 were given offers for standard entry while 31 were given offers for deferred entry. The acceptance rate for international students at standard entry was: 12.6%

St George’s University of London Medical School Course Structure

St George’s has a spiral curriculum. The first two years are pre-clinical. Despite this, you still have some clinical exposure: two weeks in first year, and then four weeks in second year. This is called your EYCE – Early Years Clinical Exposure. The next three years are more clinically orientated.

In third year, you will be alternating between placement and PBL. You will spend five weeks on each block and this will continue till exam period. Fourth and fifth years are primarily placement at nearby hospitals.

Anatomy teaching at St. Georges starts in the first year, with weekly sessions in their dissecting room. You’ll be exposed to cadavers and cadaveric models from the get-go, and this will accompany your online anatomy lectures. If you truly love anatomy, you have the opportunity to apply to be an anatomy tutor from third year – helping younger year students understand anatomy in the DR!

St George’s University of London Medical School Teaching Style

St George’s curriculum is arranged into integrated learning weeks, using case-based and problem-based tutorials to provide a patient-centered approach.

The curriculum is delivered through a range of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures and seminars
• Small group teaching
• Inter-professional learning
• Case-based learning
• Problem-based learning
• Clinical and communication skills sessions
• Demonstrator-led anatomy teaching – including whole-body prosection
• Expert tutorials
• Online learning

Furthermore, the course also is also taught with:

• Clinical Placements: Clinical placements start early in the course and are integrated throughout the program. This hands-on experience allows students to gain practical skills and insights into various medical specialties.
• Simulation and Skills Labs: The use of simulation and skills labs provides students with opportunities to practice clinical skills in a controlled environment. This includes working with mannequins, practicing procedures, and using medical equipment.
• Interdisciplinary Learning: The medical school encourages interdisciplinary learning and collaboration with other healthcare professionals. This approach prepares students for the team-based nature of modern medical practice.

St George’s University of London Medical School Term Dates

St George’s University Medical School Term Dates (Approximate)

• Autumn Term: Late September to mid-December
• Spring Term: Early January to late March
• Summer Term: Mid-April to early July

Key Dates

• Start of Term: Late September
• End of Term: Early July
• Christmas Break: Mid-December to early January
• Easter Break: Late March to early April

These dates may vary slightly from year to year and are subject to change. For precise dates, including specific holidays and examination periods, please refer to the official St George’s University academic calendar or contact their admissions or academic office.

St George’s University of London Medical School Hospitals

St George’s University Medical School is associated with several key hospitals and healthcare facilities for clinical placements. Here is a list of hospitals and institutions where students may undertake their clinical training:

• St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust
• Croydon Health Services NHS Trust
• Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
• The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
• Wandsworth and South West London Healthcare Trusts

These placements provide you with a range of clinical experiences across various specialties and settings while studying at St George’s.

St George’s University of London Medical School Elective

St George’s run an elective program for medical students in their penultimate or final year of study interested in a clinical placement at St George’s Hospital. These placements allow you to explore a particular medical specialty in a different healthcare environment as part of your degree. 

St George’s University of London Medical School Interview Format

The interview format for St George’s University Medical School is designed to assess a range of skills and attributes essential for a successful career in medicine. The key components of their interview process include:

• Structure: The MMIs typically consist of 8 timed stations, each focusing on a different scenario or skill. Each station may last around 5 minutes each.
• Stations: Common stations in the MMI may include scenarios related to ethical dilemmas, communication skills, problem-solving, and role-play exercises. Some stations may involve discussing a clinical or personal scenario, while others might test your ability to work under pressure or demonstrate empathy.
• Assessment: Each station is assessed by a different interviewer, and you will receive a score based on your performance in each area evaluated. The focus is on your approach to problems, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills rather than specific medical knowledge.

St George’s University of London Medical School Interview Questions

Here are a couple of sample questions based on the qualities that St George’s looks for in their interview candidates with a brief answer guide underneath. Your answers should reflect your personal experiences and understanding of the medical profession, demonstrating the qualities that St George’s University Medical School values in its applicants.

Describe a time when you had to work as part of a team to achieve a goal. What was your role, and how did you contribute?

In responding to this question, focus on a specific instance where teamwork was crucial to achieving a goal. Highlight your role and how you contributed to the team’s success, addressing any challenges that arose and how you overcame them. Emphasise your skills in communication and collaboration, demonstrating how working with others helped you achieve a positive outcome. This experience should illustrate your ability to function effectively in a team, a key aspect of working in healthcare.

How would you handle a situation where a patient expresses frustration or anger towards you?

When answering this question, underline the importance of empathy and active listening. Explain how you would remain calm and professional while acknowledging and validating the patient’s feelings. Discuss your approach to resolving the situation, which might involve addressing their concerns directly or involving additional support if necessary. Demonstrate your commitment to maintaining professionalism and ensuring patient satisfaction, highlighting your ability to manage difficult interactions effectively.

You are part of a healthcare team and notice a colleague consistently making errors that could affect patient safety. What steps would you take?

For this question, focus on your dedication to patient safety and the importance of addressing potential risks. Describe how you would first approach your colleague privately to discuss the observed errors and offer constructive feedback. If the issue persists, explain how you would escalate the matter through the proper channels, following institutional procedures to ensure patient safety is upheld. This response should reflect your commitment to professionalism and improving care standards within a team setting.

What motivates you to pursue a career in medicine, and how have your experiences prepared you for this field?

In your response, share personal stories or experiences that have driven your passion for medicine. Discuss specific events or experiences, such as volunteering or working in healthcare, that have reinforced your desire to pursue a medical career. Connect these experiences to the qualities and skills needed for a successful career in medicine, such as compassion, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Your answer should illustrate how your background and motivations align with the demands and values of the medical profession.

Life as a medical student at St George’s University of London Medical School

Life as a medical student at St George’s University is dynamic and immersive, balancing rigorous academic coursework with early and continuous clinical placements. Students benefit from a supportive community, hands-on learning experiences, and a vibrant university environment in London, which fosters both personal and professional growth.

Social Life at St George’s

Social life at St George’s University Medical School is vibrant and engaging, with students enjoying a range of activities and events organized by the university and various student societies. Located in the lively and diverse area of Tooting in London, students benefit from a rich cultural scene, numerous dining options, and vibrant nightlife. The university offers modern student accommodation, including shared flats and en-suite rooms, providing a comfortable and convenient living environment close to campus. This setting fosters a strong sense of community and allows students to make the most of both their academic and social experiences!

Societies and Clubs at St George’s

At SGUL, students can join a diverse array of societies that cater to various interests and passions. From academic-focused groups like the Medical Society and the Global Health Society to recreational and cultural clubs such as the Sports Club and the Drama Society, there is something for everyone. These societies offer opportunities for networking, personal development, and social engagement, enriching the student experience beyond the classroom. Whether students are interested in pursuing hobbies, contributing to community service, or exploring new fields, the wide range of societies at St George’s provides ample avenues for involvement and growth.

FAQs

Does St George’s offer a Bachelor of Science degree?

No, St George’s University Medical School does not offer a standalone Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree. The focus is on their undergraduate and graduate medical programs, which integrate clinical and theoretical training.

How much of the medicine course is preclinical vs. clinical?

The medical curriculum at St George’s is designed to integrate clinical and preclinical education from early in the program. Typically, the first two years cover preclinical subjects with a strong focus on foundational medical sciences, while clinical placements begin in the early stages and become more prominent in the later years of the course.

Does St George’s offer medicine scholarships?

Yes, St George’s Medical School offers a range of scholarships and financial support options for medicine students, including merit-based and needs-based awards. Specific details and eligibility criteria can be found on their official website.

Is St George’s Medical School a good medical school?

St George’s is highly regarded for its medical education, particularly known for its strong emphasis on early clinical exposure, integrated curriculum, and its location in London, which provides rich clinical and professional opportunities. It consistently ranks well in various medical school league tables and is recognised for its quality of training and research.

Make sure you apply, not based on ranking, but on the qualities that suit you and your requirements.

Support With Getting Into St George’s University of London Medical School

UCAT Tutoring

As St George’s Medical School has competitive entry requirements, it’s a good idea to get a UCAT tutor to help you exceed the UCAT threshold. When looking for a good tutor, it’s wise to consider someone who has recently achieved an excellent UCAT score themselves and who has experience with tutoring. Your tutor should be able to assess your strengths and weaknesses to focus your lesson time on improving the areas you need improvement in.

Medicine Interview Tutoring

Entry to St George’s is competitive. A large part of the admissions process is the MMI, which you’ll need to thoroughly prepare for if you’re serious about getting in. We recommend booking in with a medicine interview tutor to get the most realistic preparation for the interview. An interview tutor can help you to gain interview confidence, competence, and the knowledge base you need to stand out from the crowd.