UCAT registration 2026: key dates and how to book
The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) forms a compulsory part of being accepted into medical and dental degrees in the UK.
Typically the UCAT is taken in the summer between Years 12 and 13, although some people don’t take it until September.
UCAT registration, booking and test dates
Registration for UCAT opens on 12 May 2026, with booking opening just over one month later on 23 June 2026. Registration and booking both close on 16 September 2026.
UCAT testing begins on 13 July 2026 and runs through to 24 September 2026.
The deadline for any access arrangements closes on 10 September 2026.
The UCAT booking and registration process
It’s quick and easy to register for UCAT and receive a candidate ID, simply:
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Ensure your name matches your ID
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Within 36 hours you’ll receive your password
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If applicable, apply for UCATSEN and a bursary
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Book your test
Note - candidates are only allowed to sit the UCAT once per year and taking the test on multiple occasions is considered to be misconduct. However, you may take the test again next year.
Finding a UCAT centre
The UCAT is administered by Pearson VUE, who have test centres around the UK and in over 130 countries across the globe.
You can find your nearest UCAT test centre here.
UCAT costs and bursary
The 2026 UCAT costs £70 in the UK and £115 for students taking the test outside the UK.
Students who need financial assistance can apply for a bursary through the UCAT bursary scheme. Applications open in May 2026.
Preparing for the UCAT
To help students prepare for their UCAT exams we offer a comprehensive library of UCAT study notes, videos, tips and tricks - prepared by our expert team of teachers and former examiners.
These notes are broken down to cover the four areas the UCAT assesses students on;
