Prompted by concerns from the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission and the General Medical Council, the Medical Schools Council launched the Selecting for Excellence project in 2013.
The project aimed to:
- improve access to medicine for underrepresented groups.
- standardise and evaluate selection methods across medical schools.
- develop guidance and tools to support applicants and admissions teams
Summary
The Selecting for Excellence final report addresses the underrepresentation of students from lower socio-economic backgrounds in UK medical schools. It outlines a comprehensive strategy to improve fairness and transparency in medical admissions, enhance outreach, and develop evidence-based selection methods. The report also sets long-term targets and governance structures to ensure sustained progress.
Key findings
- Students from lower socio-economic backgrounds remain significantly underrepresented in medicine.
- Outreach programmes vary widely in quality and reach; many lack robust evaluation.
- Applicants are confused about work experience requirements and selection processes.
- Contextual admissions are underused but effective in widening participation.
- Selection methods such as MMIs and aptitude tests show promise but need further validation.
- Data on applicants and students is inconsistent and incomplete, limiting effective monitoring.
Recommendations
The report makes over 50 recommendations, including:
