Access course and GCSE results

[DOhio]

Hi,

I was wondering whether medical schools take into account GCSE results for those who have completed an access course. My GCSEs aren't bad but aren't great either - 1 A, 5 Bs, 4 Cs and a D.

Even if I complete an access course and get distinctions as required, are medical schools likely to reject me based on my GCSE results?

Oh, I am a graduate with a 2:1 in journalism, film and broadcasting and plan to apply for two GEM courses but I was also going to apply to 2 five year courses, which are the ones I'm concerned about.

[EternalRose]

It really is a myth that you NEED 13 A* to get into medical school at GCSE. As long as that D isnt in the key subjects; Maths, English & Science you have nothing to worry about. However, it is important that you choose your universities wisely. Applying to Birmingham for example, would be major fail.

[DOhio]

No the D was in design and tech so no biggie.

I heard Birmingham is among the most difficult, along with Bristol and Sheffield so I'm going to avoid those 3. Provisionally, I'm going for Newcastle 5 yr and Cardiff, although I'm open to doing the 6 year at Cardiff.

[Born 2 b Medic]

Actually, a great performance at the Access to Medicine course would leave the view that you have a decent potential to override a slack in GCSEs. As far as my knowledge on the subject matter is concerned however most medical schools nowadays are looking for a good grade in GCSEs, in particular a min of grade 'B' in Math and English - others like Liverpool extended the need for mature students to have at least 5 GCSEs with min grade 'B'. We need to be clear here abt the distinction between a school leaver and mature student. Mature applicants for Manchester Medical School, for instance, are expected to have min grade 'B' in GCSE Math and English only.
For a more detailed info (though not latest), please view: Medical School GCSE Requirements - The Student Room