The UCAT and UCAT ANZ are undergoing significant changes in 2025. These updates aim to better align the exams with the skills and attributes required for healthcare professions, offering both challenges and opportunities for those preparing for the test.
One major change is the removal of the Abstract Reasoning subtest. Starting in 2025, the exams will only include three cognitive subtests: Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, and Quantitative Reasoning, alongside the Situational Judgement Test. This revision reallocates time to the remaining sections, placing particular focus on the Decision Making subtests which will feature an increased number of questions in turn. These adjustments are designed to enhance the test’s predictive validity, ensuring it better evaluates candidates’ potential for success in rigorous programs.
The decision to eliminate Abstract Reasoning is primarily due to data showing that this subtest has lower predictive validity compared to others, causing it to be a less effective method at forecasting performance in related courses. The removal of this section shifts the exam’s focus to areas that more accurately assess critical thinking and decision-making skills—key competencies for future professionals.
For those preparing for the revised UCAT and UCAT ANZ, these changes necessitate a shift in preparation strategies. The updated structure emphasizes skills directly applicable to making diagnoses, and assesses problem-solving skills and one’s ability to make evidence-based judgments. The increased complexity and number of questions in Decision Making, for instance, will require candidates to refine their ability to evaluate arguments, interpret data, and apply logic efficiently under time constraints.
While the removal of Abstract Reasoning might relieve test-takers who found it particularly challenging, it also means that strengths in this area will no longer provide an edge. Instead, candidates will need to focus on developing competencies in Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, and Quantitative Reasoning to excel in the new format.
These changes reflect a broader commitment to ensuring the exam remains a fair and effective tool for selecting candidates best suited for demanding fields. For test-takers, the updated format presents an opportunity to demonstrate skills that are directly relevant to their future professions.
Below is a summary of the new UCAT/UCAT ANZ structure for 2025:
|
Subtest |
Number of Questions |
Timing |
Scores |
|
Verbal Reasoning |
44 |
22 minutes |
300-900 |
|
Decision Making |
35 |
37 minutes |
300-900 |
|
Quantitative Reasoning |
36 |
26 minutes |
300-900 |
|
Total Score |
900-2700 |
||
|
Situational Judgement |
69 |
26 minutes |
Band 1 - Band 4 300-900 (UCAT ANZ) |
What is a Good Score?
Understanding what constitutes a good score can help you set realistic goals for your preparation. Out of a total of 2700 (900 per cognitive subtest):
- Excellent Score: 2600+ (approx. 867 per section) — Places you in the top percentile and makes you highly competitive for most programs.
- Competitive Score: 2400–2599 (800–866 per section) — A strong score often sufficient for gaining interviews at many institutions.
- Average Score: 2100–2399 (700–799 per section) — Closer to the average for most test-takers, but potentially a competitive score depending on the institution.
- Below Average: <2100 (less than 700 per section) — May limit options unless supplemented by exceptional achievements in other areas.
Additionally, achieving a Band 1 or Band 2 in the Situational Judgement Test can significantly enhance your application, as many universities consider this when shortlisting candidates for interviews.
Remember, the definition of a good score varies based on the cohort’s performance and the universities’ requirements in a given year.
At Icon, we are committed to helping individuals adapt to these changes and achieve their goals. Our expert coaches and tailored preparation programs are designed to align with the new UCAT structure, focusing on the skills that matter most. Whether it’s mastering decision-making techniques or refining situational judgment, we provide the guidance and resources needed to succeed.
As the UCAT and UCAT ANZ evolve, so must your approach to preparation. By understanding these changes and adapting your strategies accordingly, you can turn these updates into an advantage. Stay informed, stay prepared, and let us help you navigate this new landscape with confidence!
