PHYSIOTHERAPY

What A levels do you need for a Physiotherapy degree?

To study Physiotherapy at most UK universities (including the University of Hull), you’ll usually need A level Biology, Human Biology, or PE, along with strong overall grades. Many universities ask for BBB-AAB, which is around 120-136 UCAS points, although requirements vary. Physiotherapy is a health-science profession, so a solid background in biology and human anatomy is important for understanding rehabilitation, movement, and clinical practice.

Typical A Level requirements for Physiotherapy

While each university sets its own criteria, most Physiotherapy courses ask for the following:

• A level Biology (or Human Biology) - required

This forms the foundation for studying human anatomy, physiology, and health science.

• A second science or related subject - recommended

Examples include:

  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Psychology
  • PE
  • Maths

• A third subject of your choice

Universities value a broad skill set, so a mix of science and communication-based subjects can strengthen your application.

What do universities look for in a Physiotherapy student?

Admissions tutors look for students who:

  • Are motivated to work in healthcare and rehabilitation
  • Can handle scientific study, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based practice
  • Have strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Can demonstrate commitment through relevant experience - such as sports coaching, volunteering, shadowing physiotherapists, or working in care settings

Your personal statement is a key place to show your passion for helping people, your understanding of the profession, and any hands-on experience you’ve gained.

University of Hull entry requirements for Physiotherapy

At the University of Hull, the entry requirements for BSc Physiotherapy are:

• 128 UCAS points from three A levels (excluding General Studies)

This must include at least 40 UCAS points (Grade B) from one of the following subjects:

  • Biology
  • Human Biology
  • Physical Education (PE)

These subjects provide the essential biological and physiological knowledge needed for physiotherapy training.

Alternative qualifications

Hull accepts several equivalent pathways:

  • Access to HE Diploma (Science)

You will need:

  • Pass in a relevant science subject
  • 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction, including 15 credits in Biology at Distinction
  • 15 Level 3 credits at Merit

Hull also considers UK and international qualifications that don’t exactly match these combinations, and they review each application individually.

No science A Levels? There are other routes

If you don’t meet traditional A level requirements, alternatives such as an Access to HE Diploma, or specific health-science qualifications may provide a viable path into Physiotherapy. These routes help build the scientific knowledge and confidence needed for university-level healthcare study.

A group of students watching a physiotherapy practical

Explore our Physiotherapy degree

Could you be the person who helps someone take their first pain-free step? At the University of Hull, we’ll show you how. Our Physiotherapy degree blends scientific insight with real clinical practice, giving you the skills to understand the body and guide recovery with confidence. Learn in a community driven by curiosity, compassion, and nearly a century of tackling real-world challenges together.