Choosing your school subjects for medicine

Keep your science options open

To apply for medicine, you'll usually need 5 Highers in S5. Chemistry is the most important subject to take. It's a strong requirement across all Scottish medical schools.

You should also try to take Biology and at least one from Maths or Physics. This gives you the best flexibility. The exact combinations might not be the same everywhere, so you'll check the specific details when you apply.

Find out more about entry requirements for medical school in Scotland.

Your National 5 choices

You should aim for a strong all-round profile in S4, not just in science. Medical schools usually expect a mixture of A and B grades at National 5.

English is important, and you'll need Maths at National 5 if you aren't taking it at Higher. In addition to the required subjects, you should pick things you're interested in or will do well in.

Sixth year still matters

Getting into medicine isn't just about getting through S5. Universities want to see you stay fully engaged in S6. You'll usually need to take Advanced Highers, or a mix of Highers and Advanced Highers.

There isn't just one route

Don't worry if you aren't completely sure yet. There are different routes into medicine, including gateway programmes and graduate options. Your route doesn't have to look exactly like someone else's.

There's also lots of support available to help you understand your choices. Programmes like Reach and SHEP can help you figure out your university options and widening access support early on.

Find out more about widening access to medicine.