Access Courses?

[louise]

Hi I'm currently an A-Level student taking biol, chem and physics. I have a conditional offer of AAB for Newcastle University in 2003 for the standard 5yr medical degree course. However, i am not confident that I will obtain these grades and will probably get ABB/BBB and was wondering if it possible to transfer to a medical course after the first yr of a biological science degree or any other degree? I would be grateful for any advice. thanks.

[S Knights]

It is possible to transfer from the biomedical science courses to medicine after the 1st year, it is very competative and you have to get about 70 - 80% in the first year exams. That having been said, if you do well and can prove your determination to study medicine you have a chance.
It would probably be a better idea to stick with the course and reapply after completing your first degree (if you need to of course!)

You might not have to worry about it unduly anyway, if your offer is AAB and you get ABB there is still a fair possability that they will accept you (Did you apply to Newcastle or Durham or both?).

Try not to worry too much about the results - I know that's difficult - if you have been revising sensibly you should be fine, and even if you don't quite get the grades there are still ways into medicine, it just might take a little longer.

Good Luck with the A levels

Steven (medic, UDQC)

[louise]

Thanks for your help. I applied to Newcastle. Do you know if they are flexible when it comes to A-Level grades?

[S Knights]

Well, they certainly aren't too strict. I know of people who got ABB and were still accepted, I think as long as you gave your interviewers the impression that you will make a good doctor there is a chance.
Until the results are in we won't know, but you have probably done well anyway - just about everyone comes away from the A levels (particularly the sciences) focusing on the questions they didn't answer, I know I thought I'd failed chemistry after the second A2 exam (think it was inorganic stuff...), chances are you have done better than you think.

I hope to see you around the university in October

Steven

[louise]

Thanks for all your help. Good luck with your career as a doctor!

Louise

[S Knights]

Thanks! Glad to help.

Steven