Medicine rewards people who enjoy science, people and problem-solving, and who can cope with uncertainty, long training and emotional demands. Good grades are necessary but not sufficient.
What to expect
- Length. Most doctors spend 10–15 years in training after leaving school.
- Exams never stop. Medical school exams, a licensing assessment, then Royal College exams during specialty training.
- Shift work. Training posts include nights, weekends and on-call duties.
- Moving. Training places are allocated by region, so you may live in several parts of the UK.
- Emotional load. You will meet illness, death and distress. Medical schools teach resilience and support seeking; use them.
Test it before you commit
- Arrange work experience or volunteering with people who need care: hospices, care homes, charities, or a GP practice.
- Talk to doctors at different stages: a medical student, a foundation doctor and a consultant will give three different pictures.
- Read recent news about the NHS and about training places so you understand the context.
Your checklist
- Arrange at least one care-based work experience placement
- Speak to a doctor about their career
This page is general education, reviewed 24 October 2026. Rules, fees and dates change: always confirm with the official sources below. It is not medical, legal or immigration advice.