UCAT Bursary Scheme: What is it? How to Apply for it?

Let’s face it, educational fees are steep and any help you’re entitled to can make the process of applying for the UCAT test even more appealing. 

If you are just starting to prepare for the UCAT, it's a good idea to arrange this as soon as possible, so you can focus on planning and revising for the exam.

‍What is the UCAT Bursary Scheme?

UK and EU candidates in financial need may be able to sit the UCAT for free, thanks to the UCAT Bursary Scheme. It’s easy to apply for a bursary voucher, too. The process won’t take long and applications will be processed fast. If you’ve already paid for your test, you can still apply for a bursary voucher.

Have questions about the UCAT? Read our UCAT FAQ.

Bursary Scheme opens: 16 May 2023 at 9.30am BST
Bursary Scheme application deadline: 29 September 2023 at 4pm BST
Voucher expiry date: October 2023 (exact date to be confirmed)

‍Who is eligible for a UCAT bursary?

If you’re wondering if you’re eligible for the Bursary Scheme, the UCAT site has all the information you need. Essentially, you must meet one of the criteria listed via the link above (and in the bullet points below), as well as providing one piece of evidence to support your application.

The criteria include being eligible for free school meals, receiving a 16 to 19 Bursary (England) or Maintenance Allowance (EMA) in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, or receiving learner support (FE 19+) or the equivalent funding for Scotland, Wales or NI. 

You are also eligible if you receive:

• A grant from Student Finance England or Maintenance Loan (full-rate)
• A Student Finance Wales or Northern Ireland Grant full rate)
• Income Support
• Universal Credit
• Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
• Working or Child Tax Credit
• Job Seekers’ Allowance (JSA)
• EU State Benefit
• Asylum Support.

Learn about UCAT requirements for medical and dental schools.

What evidence do I need to apply for the UCAT Bursary Scheme?

If you receive free school meals, you must provide a recent letter from your school or college, which confirms your receipt of free school meals which are funded by the local authority only.

For students with a 16 to 19 Bursary (England) or Education Maintenance Allowance in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, remember to send your official award letter. This will be for the academic year 2020/21 or 2021/22; they will not accept evidence that relates to bursaries or scholarships at fee-paying or independent schools.

People who receive Learner Support (FE 19+) or the equivalent funding for Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland should upload their official award letter. This should be for the academic year 2020/21 or 2021/22.

Find the evidence you require.

How do I apply for the UCAT Bursary Scheme?

To apply for the Bursary Scheme, you are required to complete the application form. Scroll all the way down the page and you’ll see the 'Apply for a Bursary' button, as pictured above. When applying, you must also either upload, email or post your evidence to the UCAT Consortium.

‍If you're still preparing, try our free UCAT practice questions, or sign up to our UCAT Online Course.

You'll get access to 20,000+ questions, 24 unique full mock exams, 40+ mini-mock exams, 50+ hours of video tutorials, and performance feedback. We've also upgraded our UCAT mock exams 13-24 and revised our practice question bank to enrich your preparation journey.

Medify also offers a discretionary UCAT course bursary. Please contact us for further details.