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Becoming a doctor: entry in 2009

Medicine is a popular career choice and competition for places at medical school is very high. This guide, updated annually to reflect changes in medical education, is designed to help those students who are considering a career in medicine.

The main purpose of the guide is to answer the most commonly asked questions about becoming a doctor as well as describing where students can get further information.

It provides information on:

• the different careers open to doctors
• the career path of a doctor
• applying to medical school
• qualifications required for entry
• what you can do if you don't have the traditional qualifications required for entry
• any other tests or examinations it may be necessary for you to undertake
• what qualities medical schools look for in applicants
• opportunities for graduate and mature students
• opportunities for disabled students
• what to do if you have a serious communicable disease
• the financial impact of studying medicine
• what finances might be available to help you through your studies
• contact details for medical schools, specialty bodies, financial and general information.

While answering some of the key concerns of potential medical students, this guide is not fully comprehensive. It provides information to get you started and sign-posts other resources which you will need to research yourself.

Don't forget to ask your school careers advisor for information too.