Ulster University
Londonderry, UKLondonderry, UKGMC RecognisedUlster University
Ulster University Medical School is Northern Ireland's second medical school, based in Londonderry and designed to address doctor shortages in the North West of Northern Ireland. The MBBS trains doctors for rural and urban practice across the Western Trust.
Annual Tuition
£9,250/year
Did You Know?
About Ulster University
Ulster University School of Medicine offers a four-year Graduate Entry Medicine programme (MBBCh BAO) in Londonderry/Derry — the first medical school in Northern Ireland's northwest. The programme was established in 2021 to address significant health workforce shortages in the western and northern regions of Northern Ireland. Clinical rotations take place at Altnagelvin Area Hospital, the North West Cancer Centre, and community settings across the northwest.
The programme awards the same degree title as Queen's University Belfast (MB BCh BAO), reflecting the Irish medical tradition. Derry is a historic walled city with a vibrant cultural scene, extremely affordable living, and proximity to Donegal's Wild Atlantic Way. For UK students with completed degrees seeking graduate-entry medicine in an affordable Northern Irish city with a strong community health mission, Ulster represents a new and well-supported pathway.
Programmes Offered
Key Highlights
Northern Ireland's second medical school
Addresses NW Northern Ireland shortage
Western Health and Social Care Trust
Londonderry cultural city
Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
UCAT, AAB A-levels, interview
Student Accommodation
Ulster University accommodation in Londonderry
Ulster University vs UK Medical Schools
| Factor | Ulster University | UK Medical Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (Annual) | £9,250/year | £9,250/year |
| Duration | 5 years | 5 years |
| UCAT Required | Yes / Equivalent | Yes (33 schools) |
| Teaching Language | English | English |
| Acceptance Rate | Higher — focused entrance criteria | ~8% average |
| GMC Pathway | PLAB/UKMLA → Full Registration | Direct Registration |
| Gap Year Risk | None — rolling admissions | High — 12-month UCAS cycle |
| NHS Eligibility | Yes — after UKMLA | Yes — direct |
Application Timeline — Ulster University
| Step | Phase | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Free Strategy Consultation | Week 1 |
| 2 | Eligibility Assessment & University Match | Week 1 |
| 3 | Document Preparation & Personal Statement | Weeks 1-2 |
| 4 | Application Submission to Ulster University | Weeks 2-3 |
| 5 | Entrance Exam / Interview Preparation | Weeks 3-4 |
| 6 | Offer Confirmation | Weeks 4-5 |
| 7 | Visa Processing & Accommodation | Weeks 5-7 |
| 8 | Pre-departure Briefing & Arrival Support | Weeks 7-8 |
Quick Reference — Ulster University
Frequently Asked Questions — Ulster University
Student Reviews
Write a Community Review
Studied at Ulster University? Your insight helps thousands of UK students make informed decisions. All reviews are moderated before publication.
Ready to Apply to Ulster University?
Our admissions team has placed 107+ UK students in top medical schools worldwide. We will guide your application from document preparation to enrolment.