Medicine is a very competitive discipline, requiring high grades particularly in science subjects as well as a high standard of English. Three full A Levels, or equivalent, is the minimum requirement. Chemistry is nearly always essential and biology is often a specific requirement.
UK medical schools usually accept International Baccalaureate and European Baccalaureate qualifications. Some medical schools require that you take additional tests such as the
UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT), the
BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) and the Graduate Medical School Admissions Test
GAMSAT.
Academic ability is not the only pre-requisite for a career in medicine. Commitment, perseverance, initiative, originality, personal integrity, concern for others, and the ability to communicate are all essential. Good academic qualifications are normally required because the course is long and intellectually demanding.
The exact requirements do differ between different medical schools. You are advised to check details with
UCAS and/or the admissions department for the medical schools you are interested in applying to.