Medicine in Liverpool 2026: Universities, Fees & Entry Requirements

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Quick Answer: Liverpool offers Medicine degrees at University of Liverpool (£38,000/year for international students, UCAT 2650+ average) and Liverpool John Moores University. International students need A-levels AAA, IELTS 7.0+ with 7.0 in each band, and strong UCAT performance. Living costs average £1,200-1,500/month including accommodation, food, and transport.

Liverpool stands as one of the UK's premier destinations for medical education, combining world-class universities with a vibrant student culture and relatively affordable living costs. The city's rich medical heritage, dating back to the 19th century, continues today with cutting-edge research facilities and strong NHS partnerships that provide exceptional clinical training opportunities.

For international students considering medical studies in 2026, Liverpool presents an attractive alternative to London's higher costs while maintaining excellent academic standards. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing Medicine in Liverpool, from university options and fees to entry requirements and student life.

Top Universities for Medicine in Liverpool

University of Liverpool - Medicine (MBChB)

The University of Liverpool's School of Medicine has been training doctors since 1834 and ranks consistently in the UK's top 15 for Medicine. The 5-year MBChB program combines innovative problem-based learning with extensive clinical placements across Merseyside's NHS trusts.

Key Program Features:

  • Early patient contact from Year 1
  • Integrated clinical skills training
  • Research opportunities with leading academics
  • Strong emphasis on global health perspectives
  • Modern simulation facilities and anatomy suites

The university's partnerships with Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, and Liverpool Women's Hospital provide diverse clinical experiences that prepare graduates for modern medical practice.

Liverpool John Moores University - Medicine

LJMU launched its Medicine program in 2020, focusing on innovative teaching methods and community-based healthcare. The program emphasizes primary care, mental health, and healthcare in diverse communities.

Program Highlights:

  • Small cohort sizes ensuring personalized attention
  • Strong focus on community medicine
  • Modern facilities at the Life Sciences Building
  • Emphasis on digital healthcare technologies
  • Integrated approach to medical education

Entry Requirements for International Students

Academic Requirements

A-Levels: AAA minimum, with Chemistry and Biology required. Physics or Mathematics preferred as third subject.

International Baccalaureate: 36 points overall with 6,6,6 in Higher Level subjects including Chemistry and Biology.

GCSE Requirements: Grade 6/B minimum in English Language and Mathematics. Science subjects at Grade 6/B or above.

English Language Requirements

IELTS Academic: Overall 7.0 with minimum 7.0 in each component TOEFL iBT: Overall 100 with minimum 24 in each section Pearson PTE: Overall 70 with minimum 70 in each component

UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test)

Both Liverpool universities require UCAT scores. For 2026 entry:

  • University of Liverpool: Average successful score 2650+
  • Liverpool John Moores: Average successful score 2600+

UCAT registration typically opens in May for September entry, with testing periods from July to September.

Additional Requirements

Work Experience: Minimum 2 weeks in healthcare settings, though most successful applicants have significantly more. Experience should demonstrate understanding of healthcare challenges and commitment to medicine.

Personal Statement: Must demonstrate motivation for medicine, reflection on experiences, and understanding of the profession's demands.

References: Academic reference from science teacher essential, plus character reference.

Tuition Fees and Financial Information

International Student Fees (2026 Entry)

  • University of Liverpool: £38,000 per year
  • Liverpool John Moores University: £35,000 per year

Additional Costs

Equipment and Textbooks: £800-1,200 per year Stethoscope and Medical Equipment: £200-300 (one-time) Professional Exams: £500-800 throughout the course Clinical Placement Travel: £300-500 per year

Scholarship Opportunities

Both universities offer limited scholarships for international medical students:

  • Merit-based scholarships up to £5,000 per year
  • Country-specific bursaries for students from developing nations
  • NHS bursaries available from Year 4 (subject to eligibility)

Living in Liverpool: Costs and Student Life

Accommodation Costs

University Halls: £120-180 per week (£5,000-7,500 per academic year) Private Student Housing: £100-150 per week Shared Private Accommodation: £80-120 per week Studio Apartments: £150-220 per week

Most medical students choose university accommodation in their first year, with popular halls including Greenbank Student Village and Crown Place.

Monthly Living Expenses

Food and Groceries: £200-300 Transportation: £50-80 (student discounts available) Entertainment and Social: £150-250 Personal Expenses: £100-150 Total Monthly Budget: £1,200-1,500

Transportation in Liverpool

Liverpool's excellent public transport system includes buses, trains, and ferries. The Wallasey Tunnel connects to clinical placement sites across Merseyside. Students benefit from discounted travel passes, and many medical school locations are within walking or cycling distance.

Student Life and Culture

Liverpool's vibrant student community includes over 70,000 university students. The city offers:

  • Rich cultural heritage with museums, galleries, and music venues
  • Affordable nightlife in areas like Concert Square and Mathew Street
  • Strong sports culture with Premier League football
  • Diverse international community
  • Beautiful waterfront and historic architecture

The medical student societies at both universities organize social events, career talks, and volunteer opportunities, fostering strong peer networks essential for the demanding medical curriculum.

Career Prospects and Graduate Outcomes

Liverpool medical graduates enjoy excellent career prospects, with 95%+ securing foundation year placements. The city's strong NHS connections facilitate career development, and graduates often secure positions at prestigious hospitals across the UK.

Typical Career Progression:

  1. Foundation Years (F1-F2): £28,000-32,000 annually
  2. Specialty Training: £40,000-60,000 depending on specialty
  3. Consultant Level: £84,000-114,000+ (NHS pay scales)

Many graduates also pursue careers in medical research, public health, or international medicine, with Liverpool's global health focus providing excellent preparation for international opportunities.

Research Opportunities

Both universities offer intercalated degree options allowing students to pursue research interests. The University of Liverpool particularly excels in tropical medicine, cancer research, and cardiovascular studies, while LJMU focuses on community health and healthcare innovation.

Application Process and Timeline

UCAS Application Deadline: October 15, 2025 for 2026 entry UCAT Registration: Opens May 2025 UCAT Testing: July-September 2025 Interview Period: December 2025-March 2026 Offer Decisions: By May 2026

Interview Preparation

Both universities use Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) format, testing:

  • Ethical reasoning
  • Communication skills
  • Empathy and professionalism
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Understanding of healthcare challenges

Successful applicants typically prepare through mock interviews, current affairs reading, and reflection on their healthcare experiences. Consider opportunities to explore courses in related fields to strengthen your understanding of healthcare systems.

Conclusion

Studying Medicine in Liverpool offers international students an excellent combination of academic excellence, affordable living costs, and vibrant student life. With strong NHS partnerships, innovative teaching methods, and excellent graduate outcomes, Liverpool's medical schools provide exceptional preparation for successful medical careers.

Start your application preparation early, focusing on UCAT performance, relevant work experience, and understanding Liverpool's unique advantages for medical education.

Key Statistics

📊 Liverpool hosts over 70,000 university students, creating a vibrant international community for medical students

💰 Living costs in Liverpool average £1,200-1,500 monthly, significantly lower than London's £1,800-2,200

🎓 95%+ of Liverpool medical graduates secure NHS foundation year placements within 6 months of graduation

📈 University of Liverpool Medicine program ranks in UK's top 15 with 180+ years of medical education heritage

🏥 Students access clinical placements at 15+ NHS trusts across Merseyside including specialist children's and women's hospitals

🌍 International student fees for Medicine in Liverpool range from £35,000-38,000 annually for 2026 entry

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for Medicine in Liverpool as an international student?

Apply through UCAS by October 15, 2025 for 2026 entry. You'll need to take the UCAT (registration opens May 2025), meet academic requirements (AAA at A-level or 36 IB points), achieve IELTS 7.0 with 7.0 in each component, and demonstrate relevant healthcare work experience. Both Liverpool universities use Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) for shortlisted candidates between December 2025 and March 2026.

What are the entry requirements for Medicine at University of Liverpool?

International students need AAA at A-level including Chemistry and Biology, or 36 IB points with 6,6,6 at Higher Level. English requirements are IELTS 7.0 overall with 7.0 in each band. You must take the UCAT with successful applicants typically scoring 2650+. Additionally, you need relevant healthcare work experience, strong personal statement, and academic references from science teachers.

How much does it cost to study Medicine in Liverpool including living expenses?

For 2026 entry, international tuition fees are £38,000 annually at University of Liverpool and £35,000 at Liverpool John Moores. Living costs average £1,200-1,500 monthly including accommodation (£120-180/week in university halls), food (£200-300/month), and transport (£50-80/month). Total annual costs range from £50,000-58,000 including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

What is the UCAT score requirement for Liverpool medical schools?

University of Liverpool typically requires UCAT scores of 2650+ for international students, while Liverpool John Moores averages around 2600+. These are competitive thresholds and higher scores improve admission chances. UCAT registration opens in May 2025 for 2026 entry, with testing available from July-September 2025. The test assesses verbal reasoning, decision making, quantitative reasoning, abstract reasoning, and situational judgement.

How does Liverpool compare to other UK cities for studying Medicine?

Liverpool offers significant advantages including lower living costs than London (£1,200-1,500 vs £1,800-2,200 monthly), strong NHS partnerships with 15+ hospital trusts, and vibrant student culture with 70,000+ university students. The University of Liverpool ranks in the UK's top 15 for Medicine with 180+ years of heritage, while offering more affordable accommodation and lifestyle compared to southern England cities.

What work experience do I need for Medicine applications in Liverpool?

Both Liverpool universities require healthcare-related work experience, with minimum 2 weeks recommended though successful applicants typically have much more. Experience should be in hospitals, GP practices, care homes, or community health settings. You need to demonstrate understanding of healthcare challenges, patient interaction skills, and genuine commitment to medicine. Volunteering with medical charities, first aid training, and shadowing doctors also strengthen applications significantly.

What are the career prospects after graduating Medicine from Liverpool?

Liverpool medical graduates have excellent career prospects with 95%+ securing NHS foundation year placements. Starting salaries for F1 doctors are £28,000-32,000, progressing to £40,000-60,000 during specialty training, and £84,000-114,000+ at consultant level. Liverpool's strong NHS connections across Merseyside facilitate career development, and many graduates pursue specialties in research, public health, or international medicine with the university's global health focus providing excellent preparation.

Are there scholarships available for international Medicine students in Liverpool?

Both universities offer limited scholarships for international medical students, including merit-based scholarships up to £5,000 per year and country-specific bursaries for students from developing nations. NHS bursaries become available from Year 4 subject to eligibility criteria. However, scholarships are highly competitive, so most international students should plan to fund the full costs of tuition (£35,000-38,000 annually) and living expenses (£14,000-18,000 annually).

Key Takeaways

✅ Liverpool offers two excellent Medicine options: University of Liverpool (£38,000/year) and Liverpool John Moores (£35,000/year) with strong NHS partnerships

✅ Entry requirements include AAA A-levels with Chemistry/Biology, IELTS 7.0 (7.0 each band), UCAT scores 2600-2650+, and healthcare work experience

✅ Living costs average £1,200-1,500 monthly, significantly lower than London while maintaining excellent academic standards and career prospects

✅ 95%+ of graduates secure NHS foundation positions with clear progression to specialist training and consultant roles earning £84,000-114,000+

✅ Application deadline is October 15, 2025 for 2026 entry through UCAS, with UCAT registration opening May 2025 and interviews December 2025-March 2026

✅ Liverpool's vibrant student community of 70,000+ provides excellent support networks and cultural experiences alongside demanding medical training

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