Key Criteria for Medical Admissions
The Colleges of the University of Cambridge have agreed the following guidelines for interviewers
and selectors for Medicine to inform selection. The principles are intended to illustrate the areas
that are likely to be tested during the selection process, regardless of the College conducting that
process on behalf of the Collegiate University.
The Clinical School makes the following statement
1
about the key qualities of a medical student.
They:
Are knowledgeable about the scientific basis of medicine, including its most recent
developments
Are honest, caring, knowledgeable and competent and equipped to maintain good medical
practice
Show respect for their patients at all times
Have excellent communication skills for use in the health care of diverse populations
Understand the importance of physical, psychological and social aspects of patient care
Possess a sound appreciation of ethical, legal and community issues
Are able to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams
Possess the capacity for inquiry and are prepared to continue learning, teaching, evaluation
and research throughout their careers and to prepare them fully for their roles as doctors.
These qualities should inform the selection process throughout. In addition, the Colleges subscribe
to the principles for medical admissions that have been approved by the GMC in the 2018
Statement
on the Core Values and Attributes needed to study Medicine
2
Interviewers are
strongly encouraged
to read this information.
All Colleges’ interview processes involve at least one current practitioner and all Colleges will
conduct at least two interviews per medical applicant.
The key issues to be evaluated at interview and through other aspects of the selection process fall
into three areas:
Scientific and related competencies
Personal qualities and communications skills appropriate to a would-be doctor
Understanding of the professional and career requirements
1
http://www.medschl.cam.ac.uk/about/
2
https://www.medschools.ac.uk/media/2542/statement-on-core-values-to-study-medicine.pdf study-
medicine.aspx