UCAT Tuition

Focused one-to-one preparation for every UCAT subtest — timing, strategy, and confident execution

Lots of students in a lecture hall taking notes and on laptops

What is the UCAT?

The UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is required by most UK medical and dental schools. Unlike traditional exams, it doesn’t test science content or learned knowledge — instead, it measures the critical thinking and decision-making skills that future doctors and dentists need.

The sections:

From 2025 onwards, the UCAT will feature three cognitive subtests – Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, and Quantitative Reasoning – alongside the Situational Judgement Test.

Verbal Reasoning – reading complex texts quickly and accurately.
Decision Making – applying logic and evaluating arguments.
Quantitative Reasoning – solving data-driven problems with speed.
Situational Judgement – showing sound ethical and professional judgement.

Asian girl speaking to fellow student friends in lecture room

Our Key Services

How we help students prepare for the UCAT

Verbal Reasoning

UCAT Verbal Reasoning passages are dense and heavily timed. Our tutors show students how to scan efficiently, identify key information, and evaluate arguments accurately. The focus is on improving accuracy under time pressure, not slow, line-by-line reading.
Quantitative Reasoning

Fast, precise numerical thinking is essential for a strong UCAT score. We work on data interpretation, mental maths, and quick methods for common question types. Students learn repeatable strategies so they can answer confidently with only seconds per question.
Decision Making

Decision Making tests logic, probability, and the ability to weigh evidence. Using past question styles and medical-style scenarios, our tutors help students break down complex information, spot traps, and choose the most defensible option under pressure.
Situational Judgement

Situational Judgement is about professional behaviour and judgement, not pure knowledge. We guide students through realistic clinical and ethical scenarios so they understand what medical schools are looking for – appropriate, measured responses that reflect GMC values.
Timed practice and full mocks

UCAT is as much about timing and stamina as it is about skill. Students sit realistic computer-based mocks, building familiarity with the format and on-screen tools. Every paper is reviewed in detail so they see how small improvements translate into higher scaled scores.
Targeted feedback and study plans

After each session, students receive clear, practical feedback and a focused study plan. We highlight which UCAT sections need attention, which question types cost the most marks, and how to use limited preparation time for maximum score gain.

Hear from our families

For over three decades, we’ve had the privilege of supporting families through their most important educational decisions. Here’s what parents say about their journey with Lionheart.

Lionheart made all the difference in how my son approached the UCAT. It wasn’t just the strategies — though those were invaluable — but also the calm, steady encouragement he received throughout. By the time the exam came, he wasn’t panicked, he was prepared. He’s now on track for Medicine at Bristol, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
Mr. and Mrs. Patel

The UCAT was honestly terrifying at first — the timing felt impossible. My tutor broke it down into manageable steps, showing me how to approach each question type and cut out wasted time. By the end, I was scoring consistently above my target band in mocks. That confidence carried me through the real test.
Sophia A

Everyone talks about how hard the UCAT is, but I didn’t realise how different it feels compared to school exams. My tutor showed me shortcuts for abstract reasoning and gave me a structured plan for daily practice. That consistency really paid off — I ended up with a score I didn’t think was possible and have just secured an offer.
Luca M

Your UCAT questions answered

Who needs to take the UCAT?

The UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is required by most UK medical and dental schools, and some international universities. It’s usually taken in the summer before Year 13 applications are submitted. Each university sets its own expectations for UCAT scores, so it’s important to understand how your target schools use the test.
When should students start preparing for the UCAT?

Most students begin focused preparation 2–3 months before their test date. Starting earlier allows for gradual, low-pressure practice and helps avoid last-minute cramming. With our guidance, students build a sustainable study plan that fits around their school commitments.
How is the UCAT scored?

UCAT scores consist of a scaled score (300–900) for each of the Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, and Quantitative Reasoning sections, which are combined into a total cognitive score out of 2700. The Situational Judgement test is scored separately into one of four bands (Band 1 is highest). There is no penalty for wrong answers, and raw scores are converted to scaled scores to account for different test versions.
Can tutoring really improve UCAT performance?

Yes — while the UCAT tests aptitude, performance improves dramatically with strategy and practice. Our tutors teach proven approaches for speed, accuracy, and decision-making under time pressure. Students learn to recognise question types quickly and avoid common traps, making preparation highly effective.
How do you balance UCAT prep with A Levels?

We design study schedules that work alongside A Level revision, preventing overwhelm. Short, focused sessions and regular timed practice mean students stay on track without sacrificing their schoolwork. Our tutors also coach stress-management techniques, ensuring students feel calm and focused on test day.
Can you help with both Medicine and Dentistry applications?

Absolutely. Our UCAT tutors support students applying to both Medicine and Dentistry, and we also advise on the wider application process — from personal statements to interview preparation — ensuring every part of the application is aligned.