Choosing Medicine or Dentistry is a big call, intellectually demanding, emotionally stretching, and ultimately incredibly rewarding. If you are aiming for an undergraduate place in Australia or New Zealand, here’s the straight-talk guide to how selection works, what to prepare, and why the path is worth it.
Most pathways assess three areas: Academic (ATAR/IB & subjects), UCAT ANZ, and an Interview (usually MMI). Use this one-pager to plan your approach.
Core Selection Criteria
- Academic: Competitive ATAR/IB; sometimes subject prerequisites (often Chemistry/English).
- UCAT ANZ: Highly time-pressured—aim for strong percentile across all 5 subtests; SJT may screen.
- Interview: MMI or panel assessing ethics, empathy, teamwork, motivation, and insight.
Additional / Other Selection Criteria
- Casper: Curtin University also requires Casper score in addition to UCAT score.
- Psychometrics: Bond University uses Psychoemtrics test instead of UCAT.
Pathways
- Direct Entry (Year 12): Apply with ATAR/IB + UCAT + interview.
- Provisional Entry: Secure a med/dent place via another degree (e.g., Science/Biomed).
- Graduate Entry: After a bachelor’s (usually via GAMSAT).Interview Tips
Interview Tips
- Practise scenarios (ethics, teamwork, communication).
- Use reflective stories that show growth and suitability.
- Avoid clichés; be specific and honest.
Indigenous & Rural Pathways
Many universities offer targeted streams and support for eligible applicants. These may adjust thresholds or provide alternate processes. Always check each faculty’s official page for the latest details.
Common Pitfalls
- Starting late on UCAT or interviews.
- Ignoring SJT/ethics; weak motivation stories.
How Selection Typically Works
Most universities assess you on a blend of four pillars:
- UCAT ANZ score
For the majority of programs, your UCAT ANZ result is a gatekeeper and/or a ranking tool. - Competitive academic achievement (ATAR/IB or equivalent)
Aim high—top bands matter. - Prerequisite or recommended subjects
English and Chemistry are common. - A selection interview
Panel or Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI).
Notes and nuances
- A few pathways don’t use UCAT or add extra requirements.
- International applicants may be assessed differently.
What a Strong Application Looks Like
- Academic readiness: Consistent top performance.
- UCAT as a skill: Train timing and strategy.
- Interview mindset: Think out loud; show empathy.
- Portfolio of behaviours: Grow from activities.
Common Pitfalls (and how to avoid them)
- Treating UCAT like a memory test: It’s about rapid reasoning.
- Ignoring prerequisites: One missing subject can derail eligibility.
- Late logistics: Deadlines are unforgiving.
- One-track thinking: Apply to a sensible range of programs.
A Realistic Timeline (School-Leaver)
- Year 11–early Year 12: Lock subjects; build behaviours.
- Term 2–3 (Year 12): UCAT preparation and sitting window.
- Mid–late Year 12: Applications + interview prep.
- Nov–Feb: Interviews and offers.
Why Medicine or Dentistry?
Medicine
- Variety of paths: Many specialties and hybrid careers.
- Impact and meaning: Direct patient care and leadership.
- Career mobility: Work across many environments.
Dentistry
- Blended science and hands-on craft: Precise and outcomes-focused.
- Specialisation opportunities: Orthodontics, oral surgery, etc.
- Practice flexibility: Private, hospital, outreach, academia.
Both careers demand resilience, teamwork, ethical judgement, and lifelong learning.
Final Advice
- Start early, plan strategically: Map prerequisites and key dates.
- Train both “brains”: Academic + UCAT/Casper/Interview.
- Reflect, don’t rehearse: Authenticity beats memorised lines.
- Keep perspective: Many pathways lead to the goal.
