King’s College London GKT School of Medicine Medical student teaching has been well ingrained in the history of the institutions now combining to create the GKT (Guy’s, King’s, and St Thomas’) School of Medical Education at King’s College London.
About King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
King’s College London GKT School of Medicine roots go back as far as the 16th century when there are reports of an invoice “for the instruction of medical pupils” for a hospice on the site of Southwark Cathedral today. Throughout the centuries, there were many mergings and branchings as societies flexed to fit the needs of their day. St Thomas’ Hospital, which began as a monastic hospice, grew up near London Bridge, while Thomas Guy then formed Guy’s Hospital on the opposite side of the street.
Together initially in medical education, the two finally became rivals. Environmental stressors like smoke and noise from the new railway in the 19th century, and public health reforms influenced by Florence Nightingale, resulted in St Thomas’ moving to Lambeth, while Guy’s stayed in the original site. Both hospitals came to be associated with the University of London and were subsequently followed by the Royal Dental School, ultimately creating UMDS (United Medical & Dental Schools) in 1982.
King’s College London GKT School of Medicine – Table of Contents
- About
- Advantages
- Ranking
- Departments And Course Duration
- Facilities And Infrastructure
- Required Documents
- Eligibility Criteria
- Admission Process
- Benefits
- Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
In the meantime, King’s College London started training medical students in 1834, beginning in a former workhouse in Lincoln’s Inn Fields and subsequently constructing its own hospital. By the early 20th century, King’s established a new hospital and clinical school in Camberwell, which became independent before rejoining the College in 1983 as KCSMD (King’s College School of Medicine and Dentistry).
UMDS and King’s College London officially merged in 1998, initially reviving the GKT name before becoming King’s College London School of Medicine. In 2013, the medical school was merged into the Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, and GKT School of Medical Education was rebranded as one of its main constituents.

Currently, GKT enjoys collaborations with top NHS Trusts like GSTT, King’s College Hospital, Lewisham and Greenwich, South London & Maudsley, and Oxleas, besides several hundred GP practices throughout the UK. Clinical and communication skills, advocated by pioneers such as Prof Sir Cyril Chantler, have been at the core of GKT’s curriculum since the 1990s, complemented by student-led choice components drawn from King’s various faculties.
GKT graduates are highly respected for their strong human values, patient confidence, and clinical competence, often pursuing further training in the South Thames Foundation School or throughout the UK, and many returning as teachers and champions of the School’s long-lasting legacy.
Advantages of studying at King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
1. Integrated Curriculum
Provides a combined, integrated curriculum that includes biomedical sciences, population health, and clinical practice.
Facilitates the application of theoretical concepts to actual clinical practice from the early stages of the program.
2. Patient-Centered Care Focus
Focuses on patient-centered health care.
Prepares students to become sensitive, caring, and analytical healthcare providers.
3. Early Clinical Exposure
Offers early clinical placements, enabling students to develop hands-on skills in both hospital and general practice environments.
Facilitates practical learning in addition to academic teaching from the earliest stages of study.
4. Prestigious Hospital Affiliations
Partnered with some of London’s most prestigious teaching hospitals: Guy’s Hospital, King’s College Hospital, and St Thomas’ Hospital.
Provides students with high patient volumes and a broad range of medical conditions.
5. Learning from a Diverse Patient Population
Being in one of the world’s most multicultural cities, students gain from seeing patients from diverse backgrounds, increasing cultural competence and communication skills.
6. Prime London Location
Being in central London, with access to rich cultural, academic, and professional resources.
Provides many opportunities for extracurricular activities, career development, and networking.
7. Prominent Emphasis on Research and Innovation
King’s is internationally renowned for its innovative medical research.
Research participation is encouraged in areas of cardiovascular science, oncology, neuroscience, and mental health.
8. Access to World-Leading Research Centres
Access to collaboration with the world’s leading research institutes and facilities.
Exposure to translational research that directly impacts clinical practice.
9. Member of King’s Health Partners
Part of an Academic Health Science Centre (AHSC) that combines research, teaching, and clinical service.
Fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists, teachers, and clinicians.
10. Innovative Teaching Methods
Employs contemporary teaching technologies such as simulation-based learning and virtual platforms.
Fosters active learning through collaborative projects, problem-based learning, and digital technologies.
11. Multidisciplinary Learning Experiences
As part of a multi-faculty university, students can study topics outside of medicine like humanities, law, and social sciences.
Promotes a well-rounded educational experience and enhances career options.
12. International Collaborations and Exchange Programs
Provides opportunities for international clinical electives and academic exchanges.
Works with top medical schools around the world, offering global exposure and learning opportunities.
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King’s College London GKT School of Medicine – Ranking
Studying at King’s College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine positions you within an exciting student community of more than 5,000 undergraduate students, accompanied by over 500 eminent scientists and teachers.
The faculty has a variety of top-class undergraduate programs aimed at budding clinicians and healthcare professionals, delivered in collaboration with top-ranked NHS partners Guy’s, King’s College, and St Thomas’ Hospitals. For those interested in learning about the systems and mechanisms that underlie human health—the pillars of modern medicine—the faculty offers world-class courses in biomedical sciences and health.
Ranked 5th in Europe, the faculty has world-class academic staff involved in state-of-the-art research with impact. The students have a diverse campus life blessed with outstanding learning and social resources, such as access to specialty facilities like the Science Gallery and the UK’s largest Pathology Museum. Alumni of the school are among the most highly desired, with many going on to successful careers in healthcare, education, and industry.
Departments And Course Duration in King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
MBBS at King’s College London GKT School of Medicine Departments & Course Duration
Course Overview
King’s College London GKT School of Medicine offers a 5-year MBBS programme (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), designed to provide a strong foundation in biomedical sciences, clinical skills, and patient care, integrated with early clinical exposure and hands-on experience.
Departments Involved in MBBS Programme
- Department of Anatomy & Human Sciences
- Focus: Human structure, functional anatomy, and dissection.
- Department of Physiology
- Focus: Understanding how the human body works at the system, organ, and cellular levels.
- Department of Pharmacology
- Focus: Mechanisms of drug actions and their applications in clinical practice.
- Department of Biochemistry
- Focus: Molecular and biochemical foundations of medicine.
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases & Immunology
- Focus: Understanding pathogens, infection control, and immune system response.
- Department of Pathology
- Focus: Mechanisms of disease processes and laboratory diagnosis.
- Department of Clinical Skills and Communication
- Focus: Development of practical clinical skills and patient communication.
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health
- Focus: General practice, epidemiology, health promotion, and patient-centered care.
- Department of Medical Education
- Focus: Innovative teaching techniques, student-selected components (SSCs), and professionalism.
- Clinical Departments (Hospital-based)
- Internal Medicine
- Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Psychiatry
- Emergency Medicine
- Geriatrics
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Dermatology
MBBS Course Duration: 5 Years
- Years 1–2:
- Foundation in biomedical sciences, early patient contact, and communication skills.
- Clinical placements begin.
- Year 3:
- Intensive clinical training in hospital and community settings.
- Focus on core specialties.
- Year 4:
- Specialty rotations, Student Selected Components (SSCs), and research projects.
- Greater responsibility in patient care.
- Year 5:
- Preparation for practice as a junior doctor (Foundation Year 1).
- Advanced clinical rotations and integration of knowledge.
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Facilities And Infrastructure in King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
College Infrastructure & Campuses
- GKT School of Medicine operates across three main campuses:
- Guy’s Campus – near London Bridge (home to the Hodgkin Building and Chantler Clinical Skills Centre)
- St Thomas’ Campus – opposite Westminster and Big Ben
- Denmark Hill Campus – near King’s College Hospital in Camberwell
- Modern teaching buildings, historical lecture halls, and integrated hospital facilities make these campuses a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
Technologies & Laboratories
- State-of-the-art simulation suites for practicing clinical procedures.
- Chantler Clinical Skills Centre for hands-on learning in a simulated hospital environment.
- Advanced laboratories equipped for biomedical research, molecular biology, pathology, and anatomy dissection.
- Virtual learning environments (VLEs), including KEATS (King’s E-learning and Teaching Service).
Library & Learning Resources
- Access to multiple libraries, including:
- New Hunt’s House Library (Guy’s Campus)
- Weston Education Centre Library (Denmark Hill Campus)
- Franklin-Wilkins Library
- Extensive collections of medical texts, journals, and digital resources.
- 24/7 access to study areas and quiet zones for focused learning.
Hostels & Accommodations
- King’s Residences provides student accommodations across central London:
- Options include en-suite and shared rooms.
- Locations such as Great Dover Street, Stamford Street Apartments, and Wolfson House are close to medical campuses.
- Facilities typically include:
- High-speed internet
- Laundry rooms
- Common lounges
- On-site security
Canteens & Food Options
- Each campus offers on-site cafés and food outlets serving healthy, affordable meals.
- Guy’s Bar and Kitchen (student-run) is a popular hangout for GKT students.
- Variety of nearby restaurants and supermarkets due to central London location.
Sports & Fitness
- Access to King’s Sport gyms and fitness centres across campuses.
- Facilities include:
- Gyms, fitness studios, sports halls
- Competitive sports clubs: rugby, football, rowing, netball, and more.
- King’s has a strong reputation in university sports, including GKT-specific teams and the historic United Hospitals competitions.
Extra-Curricular Activities
- Over 300+ student-run societies and clubs, including:
- GKT Medical Students’ Association (GKT MSA)
- Musical theatre groups, debate societies, volunteering groups, and specialty medical interest groups.
- Annual events:
- GKT MSA Ball, GKT Musical, and MedSoc plays
- Opportunities for community outreach, global health projects, and international electives.
Official site For King’s College London GKT School of Medicine: Click Here
Required Documents For Admission in King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
- Original Birth Certificate
- Copy of a valid passport
- NEET Scorecard
- CV (if required)
- Statement of Purpose
- Reference letter(s)
- Certificate of English proficiency test – IELTS/TOEFL/C1 Advanced
- Financial Documents as Proof of financial ability
- Academic transcription or proof of your previous academic
- Transfer certificate
- Photocopy of IELTS/UKCAT/BMAT scores
- A personal statement that illustrates why you’re coming to the UK.
Eligibility Criteria For King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
- Pass 10+2 exam with PCB as main subject.
- Qualify NEET UG Exam.
- Clear UCAT & BMAT Medical Entrance Exam in the UK.
- Submit a certificate of IELTS or TOEFL.
- Migration certificate.
- Valid passport.
- Passports size photographs.
- Candidate VISA.
Admission Process at King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
- Complete the Online Application
- Fill out the application form available on the official King’s College London website.
- Submit Required Documents
- Upload or send all necessary academic and supporting documents, including transcripts, personal statement, reference letters, and proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL scores).
- Personal Statement
- Write a compelling personal statement explaining your interest in studying medicine, career goals, and relevant experiences.
- UCAT Examination
- Register and appear for the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test), which is a mandatory requirement for the MBBS program.
- Interview (If Shortlisted)
- Selected candidates will be invited for an interview, usually conducted as a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI), to assess communication skills, ethical reasoning, and motivation.
- Application Review
- The admissions team evaluates applications based on academic performance, UCAT score, personal statement, references, and interview performance.
- Conditional/Unconditional Offer
- Successful applicants receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter, depending on pending qualifications or documentation.
- Acceptance & Fee Payment
- Upon receiving an offer, students must formally accept it and pay the required initial tuition deposit to confirm their place.
- Document Verification & Legalization
- International students may need to translate, apostille, and attest their academic documents as per UK visa requirements.
- Apply for Student Visa (Tier 4)
- With the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued by the university, students can apply for a UK Student Visa.
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Benefits of Studying at King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
Diverse Rich Historical Legacy
One of the oldest, most highly esteemed medical schools in the UK with a history going back to the 16th century.
Integrated Medical Curriculum
Well-balanced, integrated curriculum with biomedical sciences, clinical experience, and population health since the start.
Early Clinical Exposure
Students start early clinical placements mid-course at excellent teaching hospitals such as Guy’s, King’s College Hospital, and St Thomas’.
Affiliated with Leading NHS Trusts
Close collaboration with some of the busiest and most sophisticated hospitals in London provides highest-quality clinical education.
Diverse Patient Population
Exposure to a broad mix of cases and conditions among London’s multicultural populace refines diagnosis and communication skills.
Strong Research Opportunities
Access to state-of-the-art research in fields such as cancer, neuroscience, cardiovascular science, and more through world-class research centers.
Innovative Teaching Methods
Application of virtual learning platforms, simulation-based learning, and problem-based teaching styles.
Supportive Learning Environment
A strong emphasis on communication skills, empathy, and professionalism ensures students acquire well-rounded clinical skills.
Interdisciplinary Opportunities
Being a part of a multifaculty university enables students to take electives in areas such as ethics, humanities, and global health.
Global Recognition & Accreditation
The MBBS qualification is GMC-accredited, enabling graduates to practice medicine in the UK and take up international opportunities.
Career Prospects
Graduates are extremely popular with NHS Trusts and healthcare facilities worldwide, and many are allocated places in the best Foundation Programmes.
Vibrant Student Life
Situated in the center of London, students benefit from an active social life, proximity to cultural sites, and student groups representing a variety of interests.
Alumni Network
A robust, caring alumni network featuring internationally known healthcare practitioners and scholars.
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students at King’s College London GKT School of Medicine
Global Recognition of Degree
The MBBS degree is General Medical Council (GMC) accredited in the UK and recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India, enabling Indian students to study postgraduate or practice in India after clearing FMGE/NExT.
High-Quality Education
Access to a highly ranked medical curriculum with solid clinical and research elements, guaranteeing world-class education and training.
Multicultural and Inclusive Environment
Diverse student population and inclusive campus environment welcome Indian students and make them feel valued.
Supportive Indian Student Community
Vibrant Indian student societies, such as cultural associations, offer a home-away-from-home experience with festivals, events, and networking opportunities.
Strong Alumni Network
Numerous Indian graduates of King’s are now settled in top hospitals, research centers, and government positions in the UK, India, and around the world.
Opportunities for Clinical Exchange & Internships
Access to international elective courses and exchange schemes, which can include placements in Indian hospitals or foreign institutions.
Career Support & Visa Guidance
Professional career services assist Indian students in career guidance, navigation of the UK job market, and post-study work visa (Graduate Route) assistance.
Location Advantage – London
London provides multiple networking, research, and work opportunities, and Indian communities, restaurants, temples, and festivals.
Pathway to Postgraduate Training in the UK
Indian students who graduate from King’s are entitled to apply for UK Foundation Programme (UKFP) and subsequently for specialty training (residency), providing a robust lead to a career in medicine in the UK.
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