Medicine

The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for a career in medicine. This prestigious program combines innovative teaching methods, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice, research, and the development of essential professional skills. Over the course of the program, students engage in a broad range of theoretical studies, practical applications, and hands-on experience to ensure they are well-equipped to meet the diverse challenges of modern healthcare. The curriculum covers foundational biomedical sciences, clinical sciences, and medical ethics, all delivered by leading experts in their fields.

During the initial years, students focus on acquiring a deep understanding of human biology, physiology, and pathology, which forms the basis for clinical reasoning and patient care. As they progress, students participate in early clinical exposure through placements in hospitals, GP practices, and community settings, allowing them to develop practical skills and patient communication abilities from an early stage. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and encourages critical thinking, with students engaged in research projects and case-based learning sessions that foster analytical skills and evidence-based practice.

The University of Oxford’s distinguished faculty, combined with state-of-the-art facilities such as simulation centers and research laboratories, provide an outstanding environment for students to learn and grow as future physicians. The program also offers numerous opportunities for extracurricular engagement, leadership development, and global health initiatives. Graduates of the course are well-prepared for postgraduate training, competitive specialty applications, and a lifelong career dedicated to healthcare excellence. With a strong emphasis on professionalism, ethics, and the social responsibilities of doctors, the Oxford MBBS aims to produce compassionate, skilled, and innovative medical professionals capable of making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

The pre-clinical stage

Applicants are initially admitted to the pre-clinical stage of the course.

The first five terms of this course are devoted to the First BM. This addresses not only much of the science that underpins Medicine, but also the clinical problems that arise when systems fail. Students are introduced to the major systems of the body and study all aspects of their structure and function in health and also the principles of disease processes. Students are encouraged to develop an enquiring approach and to consider the experimental basis of the science in the course. Matters of clinical relevance are illustrated from the outset with students making regular visits to GP tutors.

The First BM is followed by a four-term BA Honours course (the Final Honour School) in Medical Sciences. Students specialise in an area of biomedical science selected from a range of options. They will become adept at working from primary research literature, and will be encouraged to think both critically and creatively. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of their chosen option, as well as advanced technical skills at the laboratory bench and in scientific data handling and presentation.

The Principles of Clinical Anatomy course, delivered at the end of the third year, is designed to teach students clinically relevant aspects of anatomy that will be of immediate use in their clinical years.

Teaching methods and study support

During the pre-clinical stage of the course, the college tutorial system is a central feature: students see their tutors and are taught weekly in groups often as small as two. This teaching can be tailored to individuals’ needs and interests. Most University lectures, seminars and practical classes take place in the Medical Sciences Teaching Centre in the Science Area. Lecturers are drawn from Oxford’s extensive preclinical and clinical departments, all of which have international reputations for excellence in research, and the courses are organised on an interdisciplinary basis so as to emphasise the interrelatedness of all aspects of the curriculum.

Research work

In addition to taking written and computer-based examinations, and submitting practical reports and an extended essay, students undertake a research project as part of their BA course. This will be in a field of interest to the student, and will offer valuable first-hand experience of scientific research. Students have the opportunity to undertake research in a laboratory from a wide range of departments within the Medical Sciences Division.

A typical weekly timetable

During the First BM, lectures and practicals occupy about half of the time, and the remainder is free for tutorial work, self-directed study and extracurricular activities. During the BA course, formal lecturing is kept to a minimum, and students are mostly free to pursue their research and to prepare for tutorials and seminars. Strong academic support ensures that students manage their time effectively.

The content and format of this course may change in some circumstances.

• Attestat o Srednam Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) would not be sufficient for candidates to make a competitive application. If your qualification is listed as being insufficient to make a competitive application to Oxford, then you will need to undertake further study if you wish to apply.You could take British A-levels (the British Council may know where you can take A-levels in your country), the International Baccalaureate (IB), or any other qualifications listed as acceptable on this page. The first year of a bachelor's degree from another university could also be an acceptable alternative.
• IELTS: overall score of 7.0 (with at least 7.0 in each of the four components)
• TOEFL (paper-based): overall score of 600 with a Test of Written English score of 5.5
• TOEFL (internet-based): overall score of 110 with component scores of at least: Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, and Writing 24.
• Cambridge English: Advanced, also known as the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): grade A if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• Cambridge English: Proficiency, also known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): grade B if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• English Language GCSE, or O-level: grade B (for IGCSE, please see below)
• International Baccalaureate Standard Level (SL): score of 5 in English (as Language A or B)
• European Baccalaureate: score of 70% in English.

Hill Foundation Scholarship

Russian nationals wishing to study for a second undergraduate degree. 

Palgrave Brown Scholarship

Students must be ordinarily resident in and/or educated in the following countries:

Albania; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Belarus; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Bulgaria; Croatia; Czech Republic; Estonia; Georgia; Hungary; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Rep.; Latvia; Lithuania; Macedonia;  Moldova; Montenegro; Poland; Romania; Russia; Serbia; Slovakia; Slovenia; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Ukraine; Uzbekistan. 

The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) at the University of Oxford is a prestigious and rigorous program designed to train students to become competent and compassionate medical practitioners. The course is structured to provide a comprehensive education in medicine, combining scientific knowledge with clinical skills and practical experience. It typically spans six years, integrating pre-clinical and clinical training phases, along with research opportunities and patient contact from early in the course. The program begins with foundational scientific principles, including Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Pharmacology, delivered through lectures, tutorials, and laboratory work. As students progress, they undertake clinical placements in hospitals and community settings, gaining real-world experience in diagnosing and managing various health conditions. The program emphasizes the development of communication skills, professionalism, ethics, and teamwork, preparing graduates to work effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. Entry to the course is highly competitive, requiring excellent academic results, particularly in sciences, and relevant work experience or volunteering in healthcare settings. The university provides extensive support throughout the course, including academic supervision, mentorship, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Oxford’s medical school is renowned for its research-led teaching, encouraging students to engage with the latest scientific developments and consider the implications for patient care. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for provisional registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) and to undertake foundation training, leading to full registration and the ability to practice medicine independently in the UK. The program fosters a global outlook, with opportunities for international electives, promoting an understanding of healthcare systems worldwide. Overall, the Oxford MB BS aims to produce not only skilled clinicians but also lifelong learners committed to advancing medical science and improving health outcomes.