What is the AKT?
- The Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) is a computer-based assessment that forms part of the MRCGP.
- It tests the knowledge base behind independent general practice in the UK within the context of the NHS. Trainees who pass will show they can apply knowledge at a high enough level for independent practice.
- The AKT takes place three times a year at Pearson VUE test centres across the UK.
- Trainees have 2 hours and 40 minutes to answer 160 questions. The questions are approximately:
- 80% on clinical knowledge
- 10% on evidence-based practice (including evidence interpretation and the critical appraisal skills needed to interpret research data)
- 10% on primary care organisation and management issues (including administrative, ethical, regulatory and statutory frameworks)
- All questions address issues relating to UK general practice. They focus on higher order problem-solving rather than the recall of basic facts.
- The GP Curriculum gives an overview of the topics you should be aware of for the AKT.
- You can take the AKT during or after the ST2 stage of GP training.
- A maximum of four attempts is allowed if you entered GP Specialty Training on or after 1 August 2010.
What is the SCA?
- The SCA is a new exam and has recently replaced the RCA (recorded consultation assessment).
- The SCA is an online (remote) assessment of twelve simulated consultations, each lasting twelve minutes that forms the second part of the MRCGP.
- It is conducted remotely in a local GP surgery
- Sat only during ST3 training year
- Delivered across 9 months of the year – see full info on exam dates and booking windows
AKT and RCA support Resources
The SPEX team have secured Fourteen Fish exam support products for eligible Doctors in Training across the South West. These products are fully funded by SPEX and will expire when the relevant exam has been successfully passed. Please see the table below which describes the products, who is eligible and how to access:
| FourteenFish Resource | What is it? | Who is it for? | How do they access it? |
| AKT Package | FourteenFish Website | All GPR’s that have had an unsuccessful attempt at the AKT are entitled to request a copy. | After an unsuccessful attempt at the AKT, GPR’s can request access directly with the SPEX team by emailing: england.spex.sw@nhs.net. |
RCGP Exam Preparation Courses
The RCGP have confirmed the first tranche of exam preparation courses. Please visit the RCG Website for dates and booking links.
For queries about the courses or your booking please contact the RCGP’s CPD Events team on RCGPCourses@rcgp.org.uk
NHS England pays for one place on the RCGP’s AKT preparation course and one place on the RCA/SCA preparation course for each south west Doctor in Training. If you are seeking an exceptional second funded place on the AKT or RCA/SCA preparation courses then you will need to seek approval from NHS England via your TPD setting out your exceptional circumstances.
SPEX AKT courses
SPEX AKT courses offer more specific support around approaches to the taking the AKT exam and are by invitation only for specific Doctors in Training.
Only Doctors in Training specifically invited to these courses are eligible to book.
Invitations are based on exam attempt history and previous SPEX support.
| Course date | Suggested exam diet | Times | Booking link |
| 30th June 2026 22nd September 2026 | By invitation only |
Please note that if you book a place on one of the RCGP’s courses and do not attend without cancelling your place prior to the course, this will be noted and could affect your attendance on a future course.