UCAT Dentistry Explained
Everything you need to know about UCAT dentistry preparation.
*Achieving a competitive UCAT score is an important step in securing a place at your preferred dental school.
*Each university uses the UCAT score in different ways when deciding who to offer places to on their dental degree. You can find detailed information about this on their websites, so make sure you carefully do your research before applying. If you’re unsure about anything or have questions, get in touch with them.
What is an average UCAT score for dentistry?
The average UCAT score tends to vary from year to year, depending on the overall performance of UCAT candidates. As a general guide, 37,913 people sat the UCAT in 2024. The average total score for the UCAT sits between 2,400 to 2,600 – for 2024, this was 2523, with an average UCAT score of 631 across all five subtests.
But remember, the UCAT 2024 scores include Abstract Reasoning and are out of a total score of 3,600. This will be updated to 2,700 for 2025 scores, as AR has been removed. For situational judgment in 2024, 13% scored in Band 1, 36% in Band 2, 38% in Band 3 and 13% in Band 4.
Let’s break down the average UCAT score
Each section of the UCAT is scored on a scale of 300 to 900, with the following approximate breakdown of average scores for each section:
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Verbal Reasoning: typically, around 580–600
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Quantitative Reasoning: typically, around 570–590
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Decision Making: typically, around 590–610
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Situational Judgement: scored via a banding system, with Band 1 being the highest and Band 4 the lowest.
What does an average UCAT score for dentistry mean for my university application?
An average UCAT score is typically around the 2500 mark. While a high UCAT score for dentistry will increase your chances of securing a place at a top-tier university, getting an average mark does not mean you cannot have a fulfilling dental career.
Each university has its own UCAT score requirements and cut-off points, with some universities using the score as part of a weighted selection process. This is why it’s important you check out the university’s website for detailed information on how they use your UCAT score before applying.
CTA: CREATE FORM Download FREE UCAT Dentistry Cheat Sheet
How do universities use UCAT dentistry scores?
Usually, universities are likely to use the UCAT score as follows:
Use specific cut-off scores for 2026 entry. You’ll have to check with the universities you’re applying to if they use cut-off scores, because not all do.
Invite all high-scoring applicants to attend an interview.
Consider the UCAT score as part of your overall application when deciding on who to invite for interview.
Along with the key cognitive subtests, when it comes to the UCAT for dentistry, the Situational Judgement rest (SJT) plays a key role. UK universities may approach this section in one of two ways:
They won't consider the SJT at all (which is good news for students with a Band 4 SJT score).
They focus on Band 1 or Band 2 and may look at Band 3 scores, often only after the interview.
If you’ve received a Band 4 in the SJT, don’t worry – some UK dental schools don’t even use the SJT when selecting applicants.
This means your Band 4 score won’t impact your chances of being accepted into these schools.
Dental schools that don’t use the SJT in their admissions process:
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University of Birmingham: Does not consider the SJT.
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University of Bristol: Doesn’t use the SJT – they focus on your total UCAT score.
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University of Dundee: Doesn’t factor in the SJT at all.
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University of Glasgow: The SJT doesn’t play a role in their selection process.
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University of Leeds: Doesn’t look at the SJT, so Band 4 applicants won’t be penalised.
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University of Newcastle: Does not use the SJT in admissions.
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University of Plymouth: SJT is not considered; they focus on your total UCAT score.
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Queen's University Belfast: Does not assess the SJT, and looks at your UCAT score, GCSEs, and A-Level grades.
Dental schools that don’t use the SJT in their admissions process:
For students who score in Band 1 or Band 2 in the SJT, certain dental schools give these scores more weight when shortlisting applicants. If you do well in the SJT, these universities could be a great option for you:
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Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry (QMUL): They use the SJT score after the interview to make final offers.
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University of Cardiff: Uses the SJT during shortlisting, so Band 1 and Band 2 applicants get an advantage.
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King’s College London (KCL): Factors the SJT into their shortlisting process, giving Band 1 and Band 2 applicants a better chance.
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University of Liverpool: Uses the SJT in shortlisting, so Band 1 or Band 2 applicants have an edge.
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University of Manchester: Prioritises Band 1 and Band 2; Band 3 can still be considered if your UCAT or academic results are strong, but Band 4 is automatically rejected.
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University of Sheffield: Prioritises Band 1 and Band 2, with Band 3 being deprioritised.
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If you’re aiming for dental school and your SJT score is Band 4, there are still plenty of universities where the SJT won’t hurt your chances.
On the other hand, if you score in Band 1 or Band 2, certain dental schools may see your SJT score as an advantage, especially during the shortlisting process!
CTA: CREATE FORM Download FREE UCAT Dentistry Cheat Sheet
FAQs: UCAT Dentistry
What UCAT score do you need for dentistry?
For dentistry, a competitive UCAT ranges from 2500 to 3000. However, the specific score you need will depend on the universities you're applying to.
Some universities have higher UCAT score requirements for dentistry programs, while others may focus more on academic grades or other criteria.
This is why it’s important you check out the university’s website for detailed information on how they use your UCAT score before applying.
Is 2490 a bad UCAT score?
While it’s not “bad”, it's on the lower end of competitive scores. The average UCAT score tends to be around 2500-2700.
While it might not give you a competitive edge at all universities, it’s still a respectable score, and some universities may consider applicants with scores in this range. But you'll need to make sure your application is strong, including your personal statement, work experience and interview performance.
What is the top 1% UCAT score?
The top 1% UCAT score generally falls around 3300 or above. This can vary slightly from year to year, depending on the overall score distribution. The highest UCAT score ever achieved was 3540 in 2022!
Is 2670 a good UCAT score?
2670 is considered an average UCAT score, but it’s still competitive for many universities. With this score, you’ll have a better chance of getting into most dental programs, though some top-tier universities may still prefer higher scores.
Make sure to check the requirements of each university you're applying to.