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FAQ

1. What will I study?

Modules in Science:

BL1101 Biology 1

This module is an introduction to molecular and cellular biology. It covers cell diversity and the origins of life, cellular structures and fundamental processes. The central dogma of molecular biology is investigated through the examination of the structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins, and how this knowledge led to modern developments in biotechnology. The final section of the module gives an introduction into molecular and population genetics with an emphasis on the process of evolution. Throughout the module the lecture material is complemented by extensive practical classes where biological laboratory techniques are taught an practiced through, for example, microscopy, DNA isolation, dissection and thin layer chromatography.

Teaching: Four lectures, one tutorial and one 3 hour laboratory.
Assessment: Continuous Assessment = 50%, 2 Hour Examination = 50%

BL1102 Biology 2

This module provides an introduction to the diversity of life on Earth and will address key elements of organismal and ecological aspects of life. The module is divided into several sections beginning with the classification of life and an introduction to the kingdoms Monera, Fungi and Protista. Photosynthesis, respiration and the evolution and diversity of plants will be studied. Students will then look at the diversity of animals in the sea and the movement of some groups onto land. The module will also provide an introduction to animal behaviour and developmental biology, before finishing off by introducing ecology and the various factors promoting and threatening biodiversity. Throughout the module the lecture material is complemented by extensive practical classes introducing a variety of fieldwork and laboratory techniques.

Teaching: Four lectures, one tutorial and one 3 hour laboratory.
Assessment: Continuous Assessment = 50%, 2 Hour Examination = 50%

CH1401 Introductory Inorganic and Physical Chemistry - this module provides lectures on the origins of the elements, atoms,  and the Periodic Table, shapes and properties of molecules, chemistry of the elements, states of matter, thermochemistry, thermodynamics and kinetics.
Teaching: Four lectures, one tutorial and three hour practical
Continuous Assessment: 40%, 2 hour examination = 60%

CH1601 Organic and Biological Chemistry - this module includes lectures on the structure, stereochemistry and nomenclature of simple organic compounds, fundamental organic reaction mechanisms, organic functional groups and their reactions, introductory bioorganic chemistry, and organic spectroscopy.

Teaching: Four lectures, one tutorial and three hour practical
Assessment: Continuous Assessment = 40%, 2 Hour Examination = 60%

or

PS 1002  Psychology - this module aims 

  • to provide an introduction to the theoretical foundations, historical perspectives and modern developments of psychology
  • to provide an introduction to the variety of subjects which make up contemporary psychology
  • to provide a thorough grounding in the empirical basis of psychology

The principal teaching method for PS1002 is formal lectures, with a continuation of the specialized methodology and practical course exploring methods of research. It will be assumed that students have taken PS1001 and will therefore have some experience in methodology and writing research reports.    

Teaching: Four lectures and one 2 hour laboratory each week.
Continuous Assessment = 25%, 2 Hour Examination = 75%
2 Hour Examination = 100%

Psychology is only available as an option to students who have already passed the equivalent of A level Chemistry with excellent grades.

English Language modules (6 hours per week approx) mainly consisting of developing writing skills for laboratory reports and essays; making presentations; improving study skills; exam technique; referencing and handling sources; critical reading and analysis; improving pronunciation; awareness of register; formal and informal style; project work and research skills.  English for Medicine (including introduction to Greek and Latin roots and affixes)

Communication Skills for Medicine - Developing specific skills for doctor-patient interactions

Medical Ethics - Ethical issues relating to the practice of Medicine

2. What size of classes will I have?

  • Lectures  - together with Year 1 students attending Biology and Chemistry programmes - 150-200 students
  • Laboratory practical sessions - 12 students per group
  • Support Tutorials - 6-12 students per group
  • Personal tutorials - 1 to 1.

3. When does teaching take place and how am I assessed?

Terms run from Sept-Dec; Jan-Mar and April-Jun

Students are assessed in all aspects of the programme - there is more detail in the course outline.

4. What is the UKCAT, and when do I take it?

The UKCAT (UK Clinical Aptitude Test) is a computerised aptitude test for students entering degree programmes in Medicine or other clinically-based studies.  There is no pass or fail; it is designed to be an indicator of students' abilities/aptitudes.

The UKCAT is a multiple-choice test of approximately 2 hours duration, consisting of five sections:

  • Verbal Reasoning
  • Quantitative Reasoning
  • Abstract Reasoning
  • Problem Solving
  • Non-cognitive skills

All candidates applying to the Bute Medical School at St Andrews, including international students, are required to take the UKCAT. This should be sat in the year before the year of entry to the Medical programme. For more information about the Bute Medical School's UKCAT requirements, please click here. The deadline for sitting the test is usually in the first week of October but the exact date can be found on the UKCAT website.

It is vital that applicants for the International Foundation for Medicine take the UKCAT before beginning the Foundation course. If the test is not available in your home country you can arrange to take the test in Scotland when you arrive. However, the test must have been booked in advance because it will be too late to book a test after you arrive.

5. Do I need any specific vaccinations?

Immunisation

Students are seen by the Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Services (OHSAS) following admission to the School of Medicine.  During this process each entrant will be screened for tuberculosis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV infection and any necessary immunisations and antibody tests will be performed. All entrant students are required to complete a course of immunisation against hepatitis B virus.  There will be no financial charge to students for this service.
Infection with hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV does not mean that you cannot train to be a doctor but it is important to note that any entrant student who is found to be a carrier of hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV will require special counselling, as such a situation could place restrictions on the student's clinical placements and limit his or her medical practice following qualification.

Criminal Records Disclosure

Successful applicants will also be required, as part of the non-academic conditions of their offer, to undertake satisfactory completion of a Criminal Records Disclosure.

6. Who is this course suitable for?

All students with a good background in sciences who wish to pursue a career in Medicine.  As well as a strong science background we are looking for evidence that students have the personality and aptitude to pursue a career in Medicine.  We will consider students from a variety of educational backgrounds.  We do require evidence of English language ability, equivalent to at least IELTS 6.0.  Students are interviewed and may be asked to complete the University's English language entrance test.

7. Do I need to do any practical training or work experience - what's required? When? How long?

Students should try to find an opportunity to do a work placement in their home country before they start the programme. They may do voluntary work at a hospital, clinic, a charity that cares for people, or other placement which puts them in contact with people who need help (old peoples' home, etc) - to demonstrate their aptitude to help and care for people.  The School of Medicine expects students to be able to show some commitment to the ideals of medicine, caring for others, etc.  If a student hasn't been able to gain such experience while still at school, they are strongly recommended to do so during the summer vacation before they come to St Andrews.

8. What are the options for prospective students who have done Year 12 or A Level but have not achieved the direct entry requirement?

We would normally be looking for A levels of not less than AAB, with Chemistry with A grade.  We would look at the overall application as our aim is to identify students who still need some support with language.  We are not a means of 'upgrading' for students who have underperformed.

9. Where I will do my housemanship?

Usually Manchester for international students - a great contrast to St Andrews, but strong in Medicine with an excellent range of hospitals and specialisms.

10. What does it cost and what's included?

International Foundation for Medicine
Academic year 2013/14:  £19,750

This includes:

  • Enrolment
  • Tuition
  • Accommodation and meals
  • Books, materials (lab coats, dissection kits)
  • Airport transfer upon arrival
  • Some excursions and other activities

We aim to provide an all-in package price with no hidden extras.

11. How do I apply for a visa?

With help from your educational agent, if you have one.  Otherwise, you can read the information on the website of the UK Embassy in your country, the UKBA, UCAS, UKCISA.

12. How large is the student population at St Andrews?

There are currently slightly over 7000 students in St Andrews, of which about 1000 are postgraduate and the rest are undergraduate.   There are around 100 nationalities represented at the University.

13. Where will I live during my studies on the programme?

Students on the course are accommodated in either David Russell or Fife Park Apartments.

David Russell and Fife Park Apartments

This accommodation opened in 2003. The rooms are arranged in blocks of five with a shared, modern kitchen in each block. Breakfast and dinner is provided from Monday - Friday in the residence bistro. Other meals can be bought as required.

  •      catered accommodation
  •      comfortable en-suite rooms
  •      10 meals per week in term time
  •      coin-operated laundry
  •      music practice room
  •      computer room
  •      activity room
  •      bookable room with large screen
  •      open during vacation
  •      internet access and telephone in room
  •      shop selling food stationary and gifts
  •      on-site coffee shop/bistro

For more information please see the Residences.

14. Is there any quota for International Foundation for Medicine?

We do restrict the number of students to approximately 30 per year, as we only wish to select well-qualified students whom we believe have the ability to succeed.

We do not necessarily aim to fill up all places as that will depend on the students' qualifications.  We are not short of applications but would like to focus on having the right quality of candidates.  It is not in anyone's interest to select students who do not have a good chance of passing the programme.

15. What if a student did not pass the International Foundation for Medicine, what would they do next?

Assuming their grades were still at a reasonable level, they would be offered entry to a degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry or Biomolecular Science at St Andrews, or we would help them to apply to other universities (courses such as Pharmacy or other health sciences-related subjects)

Many other Universities in other countries (in Australia for example), where the undergraduate entry quota is very tight, offer a postgraduate entry route as well.  Thus, upon completion of the first science degree with the University of St Andrews, students are able to apply for postgraduate entry in Medicine, if they fulfill the entry requirement in terms of grades + interviews + entrant exams + voluntary experiences.  These are on a case by case basis if the student is in this category.