Selection Alliance 2018 report

Summary

• Medical schools are making measurable progress in attracting students from underrepresented backgrounds. Gateway programmes have expanded significantly, with 17 now in operation, and are proving effective in increasing access for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• For the first time, demographic data are broken down by course type, region and nation. The report shows increases in entrants from BME backgrounds, students with disabilities and those from low-participation areas, though progress remains limited in some areas such as socio-economic background and parental education.
• The Selection Alliance has mapped outreach activity across the UK, identifying cold spots and increasing engagement. Summer schools, teacher conferences and student-led initiatives are helping to raise aspirations and provide accurate guidance.
• New multiple-mini interview (MMI) stations have been developed and piloted to ensure fairness and consistency. These are being rolled out across medical schools with performance data being collected for evaluation.
• The Alliance published good practice indicators for using contextual data in admissions, encouraging triangulation of measures such as school performance, postcode and personal circumstances.
• A suite of 22 guidance resources has been developed, including an interactive entry requirements tool, interview preparation website, and new materials for disabled applicants. Plans for 2019 include videos, finance guidance and support for refugee applicants.

Key achievements

• Increased diversity in medical school entrants, particularly through Gateway programmes.
• Improved transparency in admissions through accessible, standardised guidance.
• National outreach mapping and targeted summer schools to address regional disparities.
• Collaborative development of fairer selection tools and contextual admissions practices.

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