Brunel Medicine: London Life, Small Cohort, Big Opportunities
Brunel might be one of the newest medical schools in the UK, but it’s already making waves. As a Canadian student researching my options, I was struck by how it offers the best of both worlds — a close-knit learning environment and the energy of London life. From early patient contact to innovative teaching facilities, it’s a programme built for the doctors of tomorrow.
🏥 Your Medical Journey at Brunel
Brunel keeps its MBBS hands-on and personal, with early patient contact and a supportive learning environment.
📖 Years 1–2: Learn the core sciences alongside clinical skills training, with patient contact starting in your first year.
🚑 Years 3–4: Hospital and GP placements across West London and nearby NHS trusts, rotating through key specialties.
🎓 Year 5: Full-time clinical immersion and preparation for life as a junior doctor.
🏆 Graduation: You’ll earn your MBBS, ready to apply for the UK Foundation Programme or equivalent overseas pathways.
🌱 New School, Strategic Advantage
While Brunel’s MBBS is too new for medicine-specific rankings, the university’s established strengths in health-related disciplines and its QS Top 1000 global ranking make it a competitive choice. For Canadian applicants, the draw is a modern, fully GMC-approved curriculum in one of the world’s most connected cities — plus the advantage of standing out as part of a smaller graduating class.
📊 Applying from Canada
For Canadian applicants, Brunel expects:
Strong academics — aim for 85–90% in Biology, Chemistry, and another senior subject.
UCAT scores around 2700+ to stay competitive in the international pool.
An MMI interview, so get comfortable with short, scenario-based stations.
A track record of healthcare exposure, whether through shadowing, volunteering, or work experience.
🗣️ Real Student Quotes
“Everyone knows everyone — it’s easy to make friends when your year is this small.” – TSR user
“Lecturers and staff are approachable and supportive.” – Reddit r/UKmedicalschool
“Some processes are still being streamlined since the course is new, but they listen to feedback.” – 6med review
🧑🎓 Student Societies & Support
Brunel’s campus is alive with over 150 student societies, covering faith, culture, identity, and academics. Faith-based groups include the Islamic Society, Catholic Society, Jewish Society, Christian Union, Hindu Society, Buddhist Society, and Sikh Society. Cultural communities range from the African-Caribbean Society to the Pakistani Society, Indian Society, and East Asian Society.
Identity-focused societies like LGBTQ+ Society, Women in Medicine, and Minorities in Medicine ensure representation and support. Medical students have access to MedSoc and specialist interest groups in surgery, global health, and sports medicine.
As someone reviewing this as a Canadian Muslim student, I appreciate how Brunel provides a broad spectrum of communities to belong to. Whether you’re praying between classes, leading a cultural showcase, or attending a medical networking event, you can find your place here.
🌆 Life in Uxbridge, West London
Brunel University is based in Uxbridge, a suburban area of West London. Students enjoy a quieter pace compared to central London, with easy access to parks, shopping centres, and cafés. The campus has everything you need day-to-day, but the Underground and bus network put you within an hour of the capital’s cultural and social attractions. Halal food options are available locally and in nearby Southall, known for its South Asian cuisine.
🇨🇦 Canadian Applicant Tip
You won’t find Brunel in historic medicine rankings — the programme is too new. But that means more attention from faculty and a modern curriculum designed from scratch. If you’re okay with that trade-off, aim for a 2700+ UCAT and strong grades in Biology and Chemistry.
✅ Pros
Modern facilities and curriculum
Small cohort size for personalised teaching
London location with access to diverse patients
Early patient contact
⚠️ Cons
New medical school with no long alumni track record
Suburban setting may feel quieter than central London
Requires adaptability as course processes develop
🧭 Final Thoughts
Brunel’s MBBS offers a forward-thinking approach to medical training, combining modern facilities, early patient contact, and the diversity of a London location. While its newness means no historic prestige, it offers the advantage of small cohorts and a curriculum built for today’s healthcare challenges. For adaptable, motivated students, it’s an exciting place to begin a medical career.
– Malik Ulch
