What to do if your BMAT score is too low?

• What should I do if my BMAT score is too low?
• Where should I apply with a low BMAT score?
• What are the low BMAT score universities?
• Give an example of a low BMAT score university.

1. Introduction

In line with our UCAT series on where to apply with different UCAT scores this is our BMAT series on where to apply with different BMAT scores. Please note that all advice given here is only guidance. We recommend that you conduct your own research and findings. You can think of this blog as a starting point to your research that guides you to where to go next.

2. What defines a “low” BMAT score?

A low BMAT score is much harder to be defined than a low UCAT score. This is because different universities use the BMAT differently and place different levels of importance on the BMAT. Therefore, in this post, we will be looking at the way that universities use the BMAT in their admissions process. Where there is no cut-off and the BMAT is not used heavily in the admissions process, we will assume that this place is more tolerant than others towards lower scores. Read below for examples.

You can find free BMAT resources and free practice questions here on our website.

Leeds University

Leeds University has more of a holistic approach towards the applicants’ profiles. Essentially, all aspects of the application are examined and assessed, using a ‘points’ system.

1️⃣ Firstly, GCSE/AS results are assessed and given a maximum of 27 points.

2️⃣ Secondly, predicted A-levels are assessed and given a maximum of 8 points.

3️⃣ Lastly, BMAT score is assessed and given a maximum score of 5 points.

BMAT scores are calculated by adding the scores of each section together, excluding the English grade. This essentially means that section 3 is given half the weighing of the other two sections. The candidates whose BMAT score falls in the top 20% will score 5 points; those whose score falls in the bottom 20% will score 1 point.

If you score enough points overall, your application will progress to the next level where your personal statement is assessed and marked out of 8. But as you can see for the initial shortlisting process, BMAT makes up 5 out of 40 points, 15%. This combined with the fact that Leeds looks at the overall application more holistically means that Leeds would be suitable for someone whose GCSEs, A-levels and personal statement are of high standards.

Please note that you may be asked to discuss your section 3 essay during your interview.

You can learn much more about the Interview process, how to revise for it and our top tips by having a look at our Interview guide.

Lancaster Universtiy

To start with, the university does not take into consideration what you score on the quality of English in your essay in sections 3. Therefore, if you have not achieved as well on the essay, then Lancaster may be worth trying. However, this is not the case if you are thinking of Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

1️⃣ Firstly, candidates' applications are screened to make sure that they meet the university’s academic criteria.

2️⃣Then, they are ranked based on their BMAT score.

Moreover, personal statements will be used as well. Find out how by reading our personal statement blog.

Overall, Lancaster University still cares about your average score since the average score for the students invited for an interview is about 12.0. However, if you feel that on your English section that you have not scored as well on the quality, then Lancaster might be worth trying.