Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the MRCGP SCA and learning with Collaborative Medical Education. Can’t find your answer? Ask us in our Facebook group.
About the SCA Exam
What is the SCA?
The Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA) is the clinical skills part of the MRCGP, usually sat during ST3. It is made up of 12 simulated consultations with trained role-players, each lasting 12 minutes, with 3 minutes’ reading time before each case.
Where and how do I sit the SCA?
The SCA is taken remotely, usually from your own GP training practice. Consultations take place by video and telephone, so it’s worth practising both formats before the exam.
How is the SCA marked?
Each case is marked across three domains: Data Gathering & Diagnosis, Clinical Management & Medical Complexity, and Relating to Others. Strong candidates show safe, patient-centred decision-making as well as good clinical knowledge.
Is there a physical examination in the SCA?
No. Physical examination isn’t assessed in the SCA itself, so focus your practice on history taking, clinical reasoning, explanation, shared decision making and safety netting.
When should I start preparing?
Most trainees benefit from starting structured consultation practice early in ST3, well before they book the exam. Regular timed practice, feedback and reflection over several months tends to be far more effective than last-minute cramming.
What’s the best way to practise?
Run full 12-minute consultations out loud against a timer, rehearse video and telephone cases, record and review yourself, and get feedback from peers and trainers. Our SCA Preparation page has more practical tips.
Learning With Us
Are your webinars really free?
Yes. Our webinars are free to attend. Just register in advance and you’ll receive a confirmation email with joining details. You can also watch past webinars on YouTube.
What if I can’t attend a webinar live?
Register anyway. We’ll send you the recording the next day, so you can catch up whenever suits you.
Who creates your teaching?
Our faculty is made up of GPs, GP trainers, psychiatrists and medical educators with experience in primary care and teaching. You can meet the team here.
How do you use AI in your teaching?
We use AI as a supplementary learning tool, for example to create extra practice scenarios and prompts for reflection. Every resource is checked against established guidance and reviewed by clinicians. AI never replaces clinical judgement or professional expertise.
Can I teach or contribute to Collaborative Medical Education?
Yes, we’re always looking for clinicians who want to build their teaching portfolio and share their expertise. Join our mailing list and let us know you’re interested in contributing.
How can I stay up to date?
Join our mailing list and our Facebook group, and follow us on YouTube, LinkedIn and Instagram for new webinars and SCA resources.
Where can I find official exam information?
Our resources are designed to support your preparation. For official, up-to-date exam rules, dates and fees, always check the RCGP SCA page.
Still Have Questions?
Join our Facebook group to ask our clinicians directly, or register for our next free SCA masterclass.