Aspiration to admission: Widening access to medical education: AMEE Guide No. 181

Opening doors is only the beginning. This AMEE guide focuses on the first step in creating a more equitable medical profession: ensuring that under-represented and disadvantaged students have access to medical education. In an increasingly diverse society, addressing the structural inequalities in admissions is essential for fostering a healthcare workforce that reflects the populations it serves. This guide explores evidence-based strategies to widen access to medical education, emphasising the need for outreach, tailored support, and innovative admission processes. We delve into the initiatives that have worked, highlighting successful models in a global context and offering practical recommendations for educators who are committed to making real, lasting change. Key suggestions emphasise the need for cultural shifts within medical institutions, the importance of clear metrics for evaluating widening access programs, and the value of ongoing mentorship and support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. By integrating these strategies, medical educators can foster a more equitable and diverse healthcare workforce, ensuring that access is not just granted but sustained and meaningful.