2027 entry · Updated 27 October 2026
Can I study medicine in Europe with my Leaving Cert or A-levels?
Yes. English-taught medical schools across Europe accept the Leaving Cert and A-levels. What they look at is biology and chemistry: either your grades in them, or their own entrance exam. None of the universities on this page asks for the HPAT or the UCAT.
The two ways universities choose
- On your school grades. RSU in Riga has no entrance exam: it ranks you on your grades in a science (biology or chemistry), English and maths. The Medical University of Silesia in Katowice ranks you on biology plus chemistry or physics.
- With their own exam. Bulgaria's medical universities each set an entrance exam in biology and chemistry, in English, mostly online.
So a grade that rules you out in one place may not matter in another.
The Leaving Cert
- Bulgaria's recognition centre, NACID, recognises the Leaving Certificate with at least six subjects for university entry.
- Poland recognises it automatically for applying, with no separate decision.
- Silesia converts Leaving Cert grades into points using its own table for Ireland.
A-levels and BTEC
- For Bulgaria, NACID accepts at least three A-levels, a BTEC National Extended Diploma, an Access to Higher Education Diploma or a T-level (England's list; Wales and Scotland have their own).
- Poland recognises A-levels automatically for applying too.
- RSU's admission rules cover A-levels and let physics stand in for maths for UK applicants. UK passport holders also have a short online interview, pass or fail; Irish passport holders don't.
What if I only have GCSEs, or resits?
Most universities want a full school-leaving qualification such as A-levels or the Leaving Cert. If yours is unusual (GCSEs only, resits, a BTEC, a gap year), message me and I'll tell you honestly where you stand.
Where could you get in?
Message me on WhatsApp. I'll tell you where you can apply, free, before you pay anything. If you'd like help, I handle the application and every document.
Ask me where you can apply — free
Rather talk? Say when suits you and I'll ring. Or email wadimedicine1@gmail.com