In order to obtain the MRCGP qualification, trainees must both exams set by the RCGP. The first exam is the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) and the second is the Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA). 

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AKT

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The AKT is computer based exam that tests the ability to apply knowledge in general practice at a high enough level for independent practice. The exam takes place at Pearson VUE test centres across the UK. You can apply for the exam during ST2 and ST3 years only and are allowed a maximum of 4 attempts. 

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Trainees have 3 hours and 10 minutes to answer 200 questions. The questions are approximately 80% on clinical knowledge, 10% on evidence based practice/statistics and 10% on primary care organisation and management issues. Colloquially, known as clinical, stats & admin. ​The questions focus on higher order of problem solving as opposed to recall of facts. 

The GP Curriculum gives an overview of the topics you should be aware of for the AKT. 

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There are plenty of fantastic resources available to help prepare for the AKT and these and further information on the AKT are all available here on the RCGP website.

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Do not miss the large question bank on RCGP Self Test. 

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SCA

 

The second component of the MRCGP is the SCA which was newly introduced in August 2023. This replaces the previous Recorded Consultation Assessment (RCA). 

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The format of the SCA consists of 12 consultations with simulated patients, each lasting 12 minutes. The cases are performed by professional role players who are trained, calibrated and standardised so that although the case appears the same for every trainee, it responds to the approach of each individual doctor, as in real life.  The cases may be patients, or their carer/parent or other health or social worker. The cases are based on telephone consultations and in the majority of these you will be able to see the simulated patient whereas, some will be audio only. There will be a 3 minute gap in between cases. 

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Trainees will take the SCA in a local GP surgery via an online IT platform. In most cases this will be a trainee's own surgery. The entire assessment will be recorded remotely and will be viewed and marked at a later date by Examiner. Each of the 12 cases will be independently marked by a different examiner. 

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It is recognised that GP consultations in the UK do not follow a single model and this new assessment recognises this variability. There is not a preferred model or script to follow. RCGP has shared marking domains and feedback statements to keep the assessment criteria transparent. Further information on the SCA is available here.

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