What’s Actually Different in the 2025 UCAT?

So, you’re gearing up for the UCAT and wondering what’s new this year. Fair question — the test doesn’t always overhaul itself, but it does get updates that can catch students off guard if they’re not prepared. For this year, the update is big!

If you’re enrolled in a UCAT course (or thinking about it), here’s a simple guide to look at what’s changed in the 2025 UCAT, what hasn’t, and what to focus on during your prep.

1. The Timeline Is Familiar — But Don’t Sleep on It

The general testing window? Still mid-July to late September. That part hasn’t changed. Registration starts in June, just like last year.

But here’s the thing: even if the calendar looks the same, your prep schedule really shouldn’t be last-minute. It’s way too easy to let summer roll by, and suddenly your test is two weeks away. Whether you’re using an in-person class or a UCAT Online Course 2025, figure out your test date early and plan backwards.

2. Question Types Have Shifted — Just a Bit

There is a massive shake-up as Abstract Reasoning has been removed and more time given to the other sections as a result. Our predictions for  2025 UCAT pattern changes:

• Verbal Reasoning – questions asking for a little more inference and less obvious scanning.
• Decision-making – emphasis more on logic puzzles
• Quantitative Reasoning — including more practical setups like unit conversions, graphs, and real-life money scenarios.
• Situational Judgement – with high-profile cases involving the NHS, we may see more complex team-based and ethical decision scenarios.

These changes matter. If your UCAT course and materials still use last year’s formats, you might be prepping for a test that doesn’t exist anymore, wasting valuable time.

3. An Online Test, But Still Demands Focus

Ensure that you know your way around the on-screen calculator, how to flag questions, and how to stay calm during your exam.

Honestly? Students who prep using a UCAT Online Course that mirrors the real interface — not just the questions — are better equipped for this.

4. UCAT vs UCAT ANZ – The Lines Are Clearer

Quick heads-up for anyone applying to Australia or New Zealand as well: UCAT ANZ and the UK UCAT are still similar, but the process is now being explained a little more clearly. You’ll need to register and sit them separately — they’re not interchangeable.

That may not affect everyone, but for students applying across countries, it’s a helpful clarification that avoids last-minute confusion.

What It All Means for You

In short, the 2025 UCAT is different enough to throw you off if you’re not paying attention.

The students who do well aren’t necessarily the ones studying the longest. They’re the ones using the most up-to-date resources and learning about the UCAT. Timing, accuracy, logic and calmness under pressure — that’s what this test is about.

If you’re still figuring out where to start, Med School Entry offers a UCAT Online Course 2025 that’s been refreshed for these new updates. It’s practical, focused, and designed to help you prep smarter, not harder.

Want to feel genuinely ready for the UCAT?

Join the best UCAT preparation course and take the stress out of test day.