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:
BTECs
- Distinction, Distinction, Merit
Access to HE Diploma (Science)
- 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.
