Access to Medical Sciences (SWAP)

Entry requirements

• This course is not aimed at recent school leavers.  You must have a gap in your education of three to five years. 
• Entry to the programme is subject to interview and satisfactory performance in an entrance test covering basic Biology, Chemistry and Maths knowledge at Nat 5/Higher level.  
• Your personal statement forms an important part of the selection process.  Please outline in the personal statement section of the application form your  progression route (Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine or Pharmacy), relevant experience you already have, transferrable skills from your current employment, any exceptional circumstances that impacted on your education so far, back up courses you have considered and why you think you are suitable for the course.  
• Higher ESOL at grade A/B for applicants whose first language is not English. 
• Due to the high level of Chemistry and Biology you will be expected to have some appropriate recent qualifications in these subjects and at least Maths at National 5 level, or equivalent. 
• Applicants with relevant experience and a good understanding of their chosen career path, but who lack recent relevant qualifications in Biology, Chemistry and Maths should apply for the course instead.   
• Applicants who hold a degree already are usually not eligible for SWAP.  Please get in touch using the enquiry button to discuss.  
• This course is not available to international students and you must be living in Scotland for at least three years prior to starting the course.  Please contact our Student Advice team if you have any queries around residency.  

Additional Information

A range of criteria will be used to decide who will join the programme. The interview will provide an opportunity for the potential student to discuss the programme with a representative of the College.

You should be aware of the work experience required for the progression routes and be able to discuss the relevance of your experience. Details are specified on the university websites. As an adult returning to education there is an expectation that you will be able to draw on both vocational and life experience.

UCAT

Applicants to the University of Glasgow Medicine and Dentistry degrees are required to undertake a UCAT aptitude test. As the aptitude test process begins prior to the medical studies programme commencing, it is the responsibility of the student to complete the UCAT application. We recommend students leave sitting it as late as possible to allow time for practice. You must make sure to book it in time.

Further information on UCAT will be provided at the information session.

For further information about the Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP), please visit the .

If you do not meet the entry criteria for your chosen course, you may be offered an alternative course in the same subject area.