This report provides an update on the Medical Schools Council’s work to improve selection processes and widen participation in UK medical education. It outlines progress since the 2014 Selecting for Excellence Final Report and highlights new developments in data monitoring, outreach, guidance for applicants, and selection methods. The report also reflects on the evolving policy landscape and the importance of fair access to medicine.
Summary
This publication presents developments and achievements across five key areas:
- qualification reform and new medical school places
- data monitoring and research into widening participation
- outreach to schools, teachers and advisers
- better advice and guidance for applicants
- selection methods and contextual admissions
Key findings
- Medical schools are increasingly adopting multiple mini-interviews and reducing reliance on personal statements.
- Outreach efforts have expanded, including regional conferences and student-led widening participation initiatives.
- Data show persistent under-representation of students from lower socio-economic backgrounds, despite some progress.
- New tools and resources have been developed to support applicants, including guidance on interviews and disability.
- Research suggests that comparing academic performance relative to school average is a strong predictor of success.
Recommendations
- Continue to support innovative and inclusive selection methods such as MMIs and contextual admissions.
- Strengthen partnerships with schools in underrepresented areas and improve outreach coverage.
- Provide clear, accessible guidance for applicants, teachers and advisers.
- Monitor and evaluate the impact of widening participation initiatives using robust data.
- Collaborate across medical schools to share best practice and develop national strategies for fair access.
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