New Media Medicine Forums - Medical News

got onto the GEM program without A-levels?

Posted: 14 Feb 2014 04:30 AM PST

I am currently studying my third and final year of Biochemistry at the University of Liverpool and have considered doing medicine for a while now but unfortunately I was not one of the clever kids on the block but my thirst for knowledge and my determination got me into university. I really want to pursue medicine as I have had a real glimpse at the intricate workings of the human body at the molecular level and have equipped myself with the necessary skills needed to pursue a life-changing career. My only issue is that I have not taken the standard A-level route and it took me a while to get my head completely screwed on (to which it is now). If anyone who is also looking to apply for sept 14 or sept 15 and has a similar academic background to me I would love to hear from you. thanks

GEM funding for students from Scotland

Posted: 13 Feb 2014 07:10 AM PST

Hi

First post here so apologies if it is in wrong place.

I'm not eligible to study at Scottish medical school due to not having life science background and the dreaded 2:2! And there are no GEM courses, which I'd prefer instead of a 5 year course.

So I have to study in England which means £9000 fees. As I have a first degree and an MSc, SAAS will not pay fees or let me have a tuition fee loan but I can get a token maintenance loan but this will obviously not be enough.

Whereas, students from England have to pay ~£3500 in 1st year, get a tuition fee loan of ~£5500 per year and years 2-4 the NHS pays the first £3500. There are maintenance loans and NHS bursaries too.

I am planning on getting either an Army or RAF medical officer cadetship which will pay fees, living costs etc but the likelihood of me getting this before year 3 is low.

So, I would like to hear from other GEM students how they funded their course because I'm sure there must be other Scottish students doing or wanting to do GEM.

Will it be a case of moving permanently to England and work for a bit to get into the system?
Though I'm having trouble finding out what residency means in the context of a UK citizen moving to a different part of the country and student funding - SAAS says speak to SFE, they'll pay but SFE says speak to SAAS, they'll pay!

Thanks in advance