UCAT 2025: Adapting to Change - The Removal of Abstract Reasoning
8 months ago by Chris
The recent decision to remove Abstract Reasoning from the UCAT has understandably left many aspiring medical and dental students feeling uncertain. However, this shift should be seen as an opportunity to refocus and refine your preparation strategies so you can succeed in UCAT 2025.
Understanding what the removal means
The removal of Abstract Reasoning from the UCAT should not be viewed as a setback—it's a strategic shift. Consider the positives—this means one less UCAT subtest to prepare for, allowing you to dedicate more time and effort to the remaining ones. Additionally, with one less subtest to manage, balancing UCAT preparation alongside schoolwork becomes more manageable.
It’s also important to note that the skills you've developed in your UCAT Abstract Reasoning preparation (such as pattern recognition, quick thinking, and analytical reasoning) aren't lost; they're simply being redirected. These cognitive tools remain highly relevant and will continue to serve you well across the remaining UCAT subtests.
Strategic preparation for the changed UCAT
Successful UCAT preparation for 2025 requires a slightly different approach to ensure you are well ahead of the competition.
Work on developing a strong understanding of how to approach UCAT preparation and become proficient in the various question types. An excellent way to accomplish this is by following a structured learning curriculum. Attempting subtest-specific mocks can help identify areas needing improvement, including specific subtests or subtest question types, allowing you to target your weakest areas effectively.
Rather than simply grinding through test questions, focus on building a solid foundation of cognitive skills. For Verbal Reasoning, work on your speed reading and rapid comprehension skills to tackle dense passages effectively. Decision Making preparation should target logical reasoning, data interpretation, and problem-solving techniques to ensure accuracy in complex scenarios. For Quantitative Reasoning, hone your mental math skills and work on developing quick calculation strategies to save time and maximize efficiency. MedEntry has several skill trainers for each UCAT subtest to help refine your abilities.
Even with the increased time allotment across certain subtests, prioritizing time management remains an important factor to performing well in UCAT. You will need to build the mental stamina required to excel in the two-hour UCAT exam. Ensure you practice under simulated, timed conditions to start acclimating to the time-pressured environment. Equally crucial is being able to shift focus seamlessly between different question types, maintaining efficiency throughout the exam.
The importance of early UCAT preparation
Research has shown that those who start their UCAT preparation early have a significant advantage over those who do not. This is even more important with the removal of the Abstract Reasoning subtest.
Abstract Reasoning has traditionally been the subtest that can be improved quickly, in the short term. This is less so for the other UCAT subtests, particularly Verbal Reasoning and Decision Making. This is because the complex skills that are tested by these subtests, such as critical thinking and logical reasoning, need to be developed over time.
For this reason, it is even more important for students to commence their preparation early, in order to develop the skills required to succeed.
Why MedEntry stands out
We understand that these changes can feel overwhelming. That's precisely why we're working hard to ensure you're fully prepared.
MedEntry has been preparing students for medical entry for 25 years. We have seen many changes to assessments over that period and across four countries. We understand how to adapt to changes quickly, ensuring that there are no interruptions to your preparation schedule.
Our preparation resources are always being updated in real-time, so you can continue practising for the adjusted UCAT.
Our dedicated team—comprising expert academics, customer service professionals, and IT engineers—is working to deliver the most up-to-date preparation tools. Our IT team has already made changes to our online platform to reflect the changes to the format of the 2025 UCAT, ensuring you have access to the most accurate resources available.
