What HPAT Score Do I Need to Get into Medicine in Ireland?

How the HPAT Score Works

The HPAT is scored on a scale of 100 to 300. Your score is a weighted combination of performance across all three sections, each contributing equally. The score is then combined with your CAO points to determine your overall ranking for medical school entry.

Competitive Score Ranges

While exact cutoffs vary each year depending on the applicant pool, here are general guidelines based on recent admissions cycles:

UCD Medicine: Typically requires HPAT scores of 170+ combined with strong CAO points (560+)

TCD Medicine: Similar range, with HPAT generally weighted at around 33% of the overall entry score

RCSI: Often slightly lower HPAT threshold but highly competitive due to limited places

UCC Medicine: Competitive range similar to UCD, typically 165+

University of Limerick: Graduate entry programme uses HPAT differently — check their specific requirements

NUI Galway: Competitive range of 160 to 175 depending on the year

The HPAT-CAO Points Relationship

Your HPAT score and Leaving Certificate points are combined into a single ranking score. The exact formula varies by university, but generally the HPAT contributes between one-third and one-half of your total entry score. This means a strong HPAT performance can significantly compensate for Leaving Cert points that fall slightly below the typical threshold.

What If My Score Is Below 170?

A score below 170 doesn't automatically disqualify you. If your CAO points are very strong (580+), you may still be competitive. Additionally, some universities have different weighting schemes that may favour your profile. Always check the most recent admissions data for each institution.

Improving Your Score

The HPAT is a skills-based exam — consistent practice genuinely improves scores. Students who prepare systematically over 3 to 4 months typically see improvements of 15 to 30 points compared to their initial diagnostic score.