Timeline for Medical Entry 2026
1 day ago by Chris
Getting into medicine is a complex process. It’s not just about your academic performance, you also need to succeed in UCAT and interviews. There are many important deadlines that you must not miss if you are to enter your dream course. This blog outlines the key dates and tasks so you can ensure you keep on track!
| Early Preparation | ||
| Timeline | Action | Details |
|
As soon as possible |
Research university entry requirements Commence your UCAT preparation |
No set deadline, but the earlier you commence UCAT preparation, the better |
|
16 Feb 2026 |
Apply for concessions or access arrangements if applicable |
Conscession Scheme (reduced test fees) applications open Access Arrangements applications open |
|
3 Mar 2026 |
Standard fee: $335AUD UCAT registration and booking opens Visit the UCAT ANZ website to register and book for UCAT |
|
|
15 May 2026 |
Ensure that you have both registered to sit UCAT and booked a UCAT testing session before this date! |
UCAT booking deadline (late bookings can be made until 5 June 2026 for an additional fee) Access arrangements applications close |
| Testing & Applying | ||
| Timeline | Action | Details |
| 1 July 2026 | Apply for admission into the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at University of Auckland before 1 July | Application closing date for University of Auckland |
| 1 July 2026 - 13 Aug 2026 | Apply for admission into the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery or Bachelor of Dental Surgery at University of Otago | Application dates for University of Otago |
|
1 Jul 2026 – 5 Aug 2026 |
UCAT testing period You will receive your results within an hour of sitting UCAT |
|
|
Early September 2026 |
No action required – this is done automatically |
UCAT results delivered to universities |
|
September 2026 |
For students applying to Australian universities, apply to the relevant Tertiary Admissions Centres. See Australian application centres (Australian website) |
Deadline for applying to Australian universities varies slightly per institution (typically late September) Apply to as many medical courses as possible to maximise your chances of obtaining a place |
| Interviews & Offers | ||
| Timeline | Action | Details |
| October - December | Check your email for offers and celebrate your success! | Offers released for Otago University |
| TBC |
Commence interview preparation (the earlier the better) Ensure you have obtained work experience and volunteer work in a health-related field |
Auckland University releases offers for interviews |
| TBC | Attend the University of Auckland MMI (multiple mini interview) | University of Auckland conducts interviews |
| Late December | Check your email for offers and celebrate your success! | Offers released for Auckland University |
As you can see, there is a lot to do! It can all feel overwhelming, but being organised and recording important dates in your calendar will ensure that you do not miss important deadlines. Best of luck on your journey to become a doctor!
Last updated: January 2026
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