For most students applying to medicine or dentistry in the UK, the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) looms large. It’s a demanding two-hour exam designed to assess problem solving, critical thinking, data analysis, and situational judgement—skills that universities believe are essential for future doctors and dentists.
Doing well in the UCAT can make the difference between landing an interview and getting rejected. It’s no wonder, then, that UCAT prep platforms have become a major part of many applicants’ strategies. Two of the most widely used are Medify and MedEntry. Both claim to give you the tools and practice you need to succeed, but they take slightly different approaches.
This article breaks down what each platform offers, their key differences, and how to decide which might suit your learning style best.
Understanding the UCAT
Before comparing the platforms, it helps to remind ourselves what the UCAT actually involves.
The UCAT is split into five sections:
- Verbal Reasoning – assesses critical reading and the ability to evaluate written information quickly.
- Decision Making – tests logical reasoning and the ability to make decisions using numerical and textual data.
- Quantitative Reasoning – checks numerical skills using problem-solving questions based on data tables, charts, and graphs.
- Abstract Reasoning – measures pattern recognition and the ability to spot relationships between shapes and figures.
- Situational Judgement Test (SJT) – evaluates professional behaviour, ethics, and judgement in workplace-style scenarios.
It’s not an exam you can cram for in the traditional sense, but familiarity with the question styles and time pressure is vital. That’s where Medify and MedEntry come in: both are designed to give you as much realistic practice as possible.
What is Medify?
Medify has become a household name among UCAT applicants in the UK. Established in 2009, it has supported over 200,000 students and is now one of the largest providers of UCAT preparation.
At its core, Medify is a self-paced online platform that offers:
- Over 20,000 practice questions across all UCAT subtests.
- Full-length mock exams designed to replicate the format and timing of the real UCAT.
- Mini-mocks and timed drills to focus on specific subtests.
- Detailed performance tracking, showing your progress and identifying weaker areas.
- Video tutorials and study resources, including step-by-step guidance on strategies for each type of question.
- Additional courses, including GAMSAT preparation and medical interview training.
Everything is online, which means you can log in anytime and practise at your own pace. There are no live classes or tutors—it’s built for independent learners who want to take control of their revision.
Medify’s biggest strength is the sheer size of its question bank, which includes thousands of practice items and full mock exams. It’s also one of the more affordable options on the market, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Because everything is online and self-paced, you can practise whenever and wherever suits you. Another advantage is that Medify covers more than just the UCAT, so if you’re also preparing for the GAMSAT or want interview practice, you’ll find resources for those too.
On the other hand, Medify doesn’t offer one-to-one tutoring or live support, so you’re largely on your own when it comes to working through problems. Some students also feel that its question styles aren’t always a perfect match for the real UCAT. And since the platform is entirely self-directed, it’s easy to drift without a clear structure or disciplined plan.
What is MedEntry?
MedEntry is another leading UCAT preparation provider, originally launched in Australia but now widely used in the UK and Ireland. Unlike Medify, MedEntry positions itself as more than just a practice bank—it combines content with coaching.
Its platform includes:
- Large UCAT-style question bank with thousands of practice items.
- Full mock exams that mirror the timing and interface of the real test.
- Performance analytics that act like a “virtual coach,” pointing out specific strengths and weaknesses.
- Live workshops and tuition (depending on the package you choose). These may be delivered in person or online.
- Interview training, including mock interviews and strategy sessions.
- Mobile app that syncs with your online practice.
MedEntry’s approach is slightly more guided: you get feedback on your progress, and if you choose a higher-tier package, you can attend live classes or get tutoring from doctors and academics.
One of MedEntry’s main strengths is that many students find its practice questions very close in style to the real UCAT, which can make the transition to the exam feel smoother. Its performance analytics are also more detailed than most, which means it’s easier to identify exactly where you’re going wrong and how to improve. On top of that, some packages allow you to take part in live teaching sessions and get direct feedback, and there’s also tailored interview preparation built in.
The downsides are largely about cost and scope. MedEntry is usually more expensive than Medify, especially if you add workshops or one-to-one tutoring. It’s also less appealing if you prefer to work independently, since a lot of its value comes from the guided elements. Finally, the platform is more narrowly focused: it concentrates on UCAT and interview prep rather than offering resources for other exams.
Medify vs MedEntry: Key Differences
When students ask which is better, the real answer is that it depends on your learning style, budget, and needs. Here are the most important differences:
- Breadth of coverage: Medify covers UCAT, GAMSAT, and interviews. MedEntry is more UCAT-focused, with some interview support.
- Learning style: Medify is best if you want to practise independently with a huge range of questions. MedEntry is stronger if you want structured learning, coaching, and detailed feedback.
- Realism of questions: Some students report that MedEntry’s practice feels closer to the actual UCAT exam. Medify offers greater quantity, which can be useful for building stamina and exposure.
- Feedback and support: Medify gives you performance stats, but they’re fairly basic. MedEntry’s “virtual coach” and tutoring options provide more personalised guidance.
- Cost: Medify tends to be the cheaper option. MedEntry’s packages are more expensive, especially if you add workshops, but they include features Medify doesn’t offer.
Here’s a comparison table to make things easier to understand:
| Feature | Medify | MedEntry |
|---|---|---|
| Main focus | UCAT, GAMSAT, interviews | UCAT + interviews |
| Style | Self-paced, independent | Guided, with coaching options |
| Question bank | 20,000+ questions | Thousands of UCAT-style questions |
| Mocks | Full-length, mini-mocks | Full-length, subtest mocks |
| Feedback | Basic progress tracking | Detailed analytics, “virtual coach” |
| Extra support | None | Live workshops, tutoring available |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Higher, especially with workshops |
| Best for | Self-motivated learners on a budget | Students who want structure and feedback |
Choosing the Right Platform
The decision between Medify and MedEntry often comes down to how you prefer to study.
If you’re self-motivated, like practising alone, and are working to a tighter budget, Medify is likely the better choice. It gives you unlimited practice opportunities at a lower price point.
If you prefer structured guidance, want detailed feedback, or feel you’d benefit from live teaching, MedEntry could be worth the investment. It’s more expensive, but offers a more supportive environment.
It’s also worth considering timing. If you’re starting your UCAT prep early and have months to build stamina and test technique, Medify’s sheer volume of questions might suit you. If you’re preparing in a shorter timeframe and want targeted support to quickly improve weaker areas, MedEntry’s coaching and analytics may help.
Making the Most of Either Platform
Whichever platform you choose, success depends less on the tool and more on how you use it. Some tips:
- Start early: Give yourself at least 8–12 weeks of consistent preparation.
- Set a schedule: Treat UCAT practice like a subject and timetable regular sessions.
- Simulate exam conditions: Use full mocks under timed conditions to build focus and stamina.
- Review mistakes carefully: Don’t just check answers—understand why you got it wrong and what you’ll do differently next time.
- Focus on weaker sections: Whether it’s Verbal Reasoning or Abstract Reasoning, don’t avoid your weak spots. Platforms like MedEntry highlight them, but with Medify you’ll need to track this yourself.
- Balance speed and accuracy: The UCAT is as much about managing time as it is about solving questions.
Both Medify and MedEntry are respected, widely used, and effective UCAT prep platforms. Medify wins on flexibility, affordability, and sheer volume of practice. MedEntry stands out for realism, guided feedback, and optional live support.
Ultimately, the best platform is the one that matches your learning style. Some students thrive with Medify’s independent approach; others benefit from MedEntry’s structured feedback. Whichever you choose, consistent practice and reflection are the keys to unlocking a strong UCAT score—and your first step towards a place at medical or dental school.
