GP Trainee Study Leave Budget: Can You Claim Back AKT and SCA Course Fees?
You’ve found an AKT or SCA course that looks right for you. Then someone in your GP training WhatsApp group mentions that you might be able to claim the money back from your NHS study leave budget.
Perhaps you’ve heard about a £600 allowance or the code GP0001. Perhaps a colleague had their course fees reimbursed last year. But is that £600 available to everyone? Does it cover online courses and question banks? And can you still claim if you’ve already paid?
The answer depends on where you train, the type of course you choose and whether you get approval before you pay. I’ve worked with GP trainees for over 15 years, including as a former GP Training Programme Director, and study leave funding is one of the questions I’m asked about most. This guide sets out what the current NHS guidance says region by region, how to apply and the mistakes that cost trainees money.
The short answer: GP trainees can apply for study leave funding towards AKT and SCA preparation courses, but the rules depend on where you train. In London and Kent, Surrey and Sussex, the published limit is up to £600 per exam preparation course. Other regions set different limits, prefer particular providers or only fund their own regional courses. There is no guaranteed £600 for every GP trainee in the UK, and in almost every region approval has to come before you pay.
Guidance checked: November 2026. Always confirm the latest position with your GP School or employer before you buy a course.
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What is the GP trainee study leave budget?
Study leave is protected time for educational activities linked to your training programme. The study leave budget is the money that pays for approved activities, such as courses, conferences and exam preparation.
The two are separate. You might get time off to attend a course without funding for its fee. Equally, some regions let you claim for an online course without taking any days away from clinical work.
In England, NHS England runs the national study leave framework, having absorbed Health Education England in April 2023. Full-time GP trainees can take up to 30 days of study leave a year, pro rata for less-than-full-time trainees. Half-day release and regional teaching usually come out of that allowance, and most regions limit how many days you can use for private revision.
There is no single national cash allowance that every English GP trainee can spend as they like. Applications are judged on educational need, relevance to the GP curriculum and local policy. The NHS England national study leave guidance sets out the principles.
Can GP trainees claim £600 for AKT and SCA preparation courses?
In some regions, yes, but the £600 figure is not a national rule.
In London, NHS England allows one AKT preparation course and one SCA preparation course per trainee, each up to £600, with your Educational Supervisor’s agreement. Kent, Surrey and Sussex publishes the same £600 maximum per AKT or SCA preparation course. Elsewhere, the limits, provider rules and number of funded courses differ, as the regional sections below show.
Three points catch trainees out. First, the £600 is a maximum reimbursement, not a cash allowance. If your approved AKT course costs £297, you claim £297 and nothing more.
Second, buying one resource can use up your allowance. In London, a question bank counts as your single preparation course for that exam, so buying one first could stop you claiming for a live course later.
Third, a course costing less than £600 still needs approval through the correct process, and in most regions that approval must come before you pay.
What is GP0001?
GP0001 is the course code for GP exam preparation on the London approved course list. London trainees use it for both AKT and SCA preparation claims, and Kent, Surrey and Sussex lists exam preparation under its own code on the KSS GP approved list. When you complete a study leave application, the code tells the funding team what you are claiming for.
You can check the code and its conditions in the London GP exam preparation FAQ. For KSS, the South East study leave page for GP registrars links to the application process and the KSS GP approved list.
GP0001 is not a UK-wide funding code. If you train anywhere else, use your own region’s course list and process.
How does GP study leave funding for AKT and SCA courses differ by region?
The rules vary more than most trainees expect. Each NHS England region applies the national framework in its own way, and Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland run separate systems. Find your region below, then check the current policy before you buy anything. If you’re in a hospital post or employed through a lead employer, check their process too.
Study leave funding in London
London funds one AKT and one SCA preparation course per trainee, each up to £600, using code GP0001 and with your Educational Supervisor’s agreement. Question banks can be funded, but they count as your one course for that exam. If you want a further resource after that, you apply through the discretionary study leave process, which needs TPD and Head of School approval. Read the London GP exam preparation FAQ.
Study leave funding in Kent, Surrey and Sussex
The KSS GP approved list sets a maximum of £600 per AKT or SCA preparation course, limited to one per sitting. Applications must be made in advance, and some local schemes ask for forms up to 10 weeks ahead so approval is in place six weeks before the course. If you’re in a hospital post, use your employing Trust’s study leave process instead. Read the KSS GP study leave process and approved list.
Study leave funding in the Midlands
The Midlands GP Schools guidance lists AKT and SCA courses as curriculum-based learning, with a guideline of up to two courses for each exam across training. The West Midlands GP study leave page names NHS England, RCGP and FourteenFish as preferred providers. Courses from other providers need extra justification, and reimbursement may be capped. The guidance also excludes software subscriptions as a standalone expense. Apply through Accent Leave Manager at least six weeks before the activity. Read the Midlands GP study leave guidance.
Study leave funding in Thames Valley and Wessex
Thames Valley and Wessex asks trainees to book onto its regionally funded AKT and SCA courses first. Across the whole of training, you can claim for a maximum of one AKT preparation course or resource and one SCA preparation course or resource. Study leave days cannot be used for private revision. Read the Thames Valley and Wessex GP study leave policy.
Study leave funding in the South West
The South West is the most restrictive region in England for exam preparation. Current 2026/27 scheme guidance states that only the RCGP exam preparation course will be authorised, and no other provider. If you train in the South West, check with your TPD before buying any other AKT or SCA course. Read the South West GP study leave guidance.
Study leave funding in the East of England
The East of England treats exam preparation courses as aspirational activities. They need TPD sign-off and must be added as a PDP objective on your portfolio before you apply. Read the East of England GP study leave guidance.
Study leave funding in Yorkshire and the Humber
Yorkshire and the Humber funds one AKT course (ST2 to ST3) and one SCA course (ST3) per exam attempt, from a named list of approved courses. Check that your chosen course is on the current list before you apply. Read the Yorkshire and the Humber GP study leave guidance.
Study leave funding in the North East and North West
In the North East, automatic approval is limited to specified NHS England and RCGP-provided or accredited courses, and other courses are considered individually. Read the North East GP study leave guidance. The North West publishes its own approved course categories, so check these with your GP School before you buy.
Study leave funding in Scotland
Scotland gives each GP registrar a notional £600 for each training stage (ST1, ST2 and ST3), not per exam, and funding is not automatic. Your TPD decides on funding, and an expensive course that would use most of the budget is likely to be only partly funded. NES runs its own exam preparation courses, so ask your TPD before buying an external one. Apply through Turas at least six weeks ahead. You can also take up to five days of private study for the AKT and five for the SCA. Read the Scotland GP registrar study leave FAQs.
Study leave funding in Wales
Study leave in Wales is managed through Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) and its own application and expenses process. The English £600 rules do not apply, so confirm what is funded with HEIW or your TPD. Read the HEIW study leave guidance.
Study leave funding in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland only funds AKT or SCA preparation for trainees who have failed at least one previous attempt at that exam and are taking part in the SUCCESS programme. One course is approved for each exam, up to £750 per course and £1,250 per training year across all courses, with up to three days of study leave to attend. Retrospective applications are not considered. Read the NIMDTA GP study leave policy.
Can you claim for online AKT and SCA courses, question banks and mocks?
Online courses can be funded, but they are not approved automatically just because they help you prepare. Funding teams can treat a structured course, a question bank, a subscription and a mock exam quite differently.
London funds question banks but counts them as your single course for that exam. Thames Valley and Wessex allows one course or resource claim per exam across the whole of training. The Midlands excludes software subscriptions as a standalone expense, while still listing AKT and SCA courses as eligible.
So a package that combines online teaching, live sessions, a question bank and mocks needs checking against your region’s policy. Ask whether online or blended teaching is accepted, whether there is an approved provider or accreditation requirement and whether a combined package counts as one course. If you’re buying a long access period, check that it falls within your training, especially if your CCT date is close.
The safest approach is to confirm funding for the exact product you plan to buy, not to rely on a general statement that AKT or SCA courses are funded.
How do you apply for GP study leave funding?
The systems differ between regions, but the steps are much the same everywhere.
Step 1: Choose the course you need
Start with your learning needs. For the AKT, that might be structured teaching in clinical medicine, statistics or administration, timed question practice or full mock exams. For the SCA, it might be consultation practice, case-based teaching, structured feedback or help with clinical management under time pressure. Choose what fits your gaps, not what is popular in your WhatsApp group.
Step 2: Discuss it with your Educational Supervisor
Your Educational Supervisor is a key part of approval. Explain the learning need, how the course addresses it and how it links to the GP curriculum. Where required, record it as a PDP objective, such as improving your interpretation of statistics for the AKT or developing consultation structure for the SCA.
Step 3: Check your regional policy and system
Find out which application system your GP School uses and whether you also need TPD approval. Midlands trainees apply through Accent Leave Manager at least six weeks ahead. Scotland uses Turas, again with at least six weeks’ notice. Some KSS schemes ask for forms up to 10 weeks ahead. Don’t assume a colleague’s process in another region applies to you.
Step 4: Get approval before you pay
This is where many claims fall down. Many GP Schools refuse retrospective applications outright, and some need approval before the date of purchase, not just before the course starts. If you’re unsure whether a course qualifies, ask your study leave team before you commit any money.
Step 5: Keep your documents
Once approved, keep the approval confirmation, an itemised receipt, proof of payment and a course outline. Some regions also ask for a certificate of attendance or completion.
Step 6: Submit your claim
Claims usually go through your employer, lead employer or regional expenses system. Use the correct course code where one applies, upload the documents asked for and meet the local deadline. Some regions now reimburse eligible fees before you finish the course, while others want proof of attendance first. How long payment takes varies between employers.
What should you write in your GP study leave application?
A short, clear educational justification makes your application easier to approve. Explain the learning need, how the course meets it and why it suits your stage of training. A few sentences is enough.
For an AKT course, you might write: “I am preparing for the MRCGP AKT and have identified statistics, evidence-based practice and timed question practice as learning needs in my PDP. This course provides structured teaching and exam-style questions linked to the RCGP curriculum.”
For an SCA course, you might write: “I am preparing for the MRCGP SCA and want to improve my consultation structure, clinical management and time management. This programme provides case-based teaching, role-play practice and feedback that support my PDP objectives.”
Adapt the wording to your own learning needs and to what the course you’re buying includes. An approver will notice if the justification doesn’t match the course.
Do you need an invoice, receipt or certificate for an AKT or SCA course?
Usually, yes. A receipt proves you paid. A course outline shows the approver what the course covers. A certificate, where needed, shows that you attended or completed it. Your GP School may ask for any or all of these.
Many GP trainees ask us for these documents for their study leave applications. If you buy an Arora AKT or SCA package, we can send your receipt and certificate on request. We can’t guarantee funding approval, because that decision rests with your GP School or employer.
Can you claim back your MRCGP AKT and SCA exam fees?
If you train in England, you may now be able to. This is separate from course funding, and it changed in 2026.
Exam fees have never been payable from the study leave budget. Under the 2026 resident doctors’ deal in England, the first two attempts at each mandatory Royal College exam sat from 1 April 2026 are reimbursed through your employer. That includes the MRCGP AKT and SCA. It does not apply in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
For exams sat between January and July 2027, the RCGP fee is £494 for the AKT and £1,238 for the SCA. Autumn 2026 sittings cost £481 and £1,207. A trainee sitting each exam once in early 2027 could reclaim £1,732.
The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges published the eligibility guidance in September 2026. At the latest government update, the guidance on how doctors claim through their employer was still being finalised. Keep your RCGP receipts and watch for your employer’s instructions. Tax relief only applies to costs you bear yourself, so don’t claim tax relief on a fee that your employer has reimbursed.
You can read the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges reimbursement guidance and the RCGP exam fee information.
What should you look for in an AKT or SCA preparation course?
Once you know what funding might be available, the next question is what kind of preparation will help you most. The AKT and SCA test very different skills, so choose on what you need, not on price alone.
The AKT is a knowledge test. Around 80% of questions are clinical, with about 10% on evidence-based practice and 10% on primary care organisation and management. A good programme helps you build knowledge, apply it under time pressure and spot where you keep losing marks. Statistics in particular often needs teaching, not just more questions.
The SCA assesses data gathering and diagnosis, clinical management and relating to others across simulated consultations. Knowing the guidelines is not enough on its own. You need to show that knowledge within a consultation, which takes repeated practice and honest feedback.
Whichever provider you choose, check that the course format meets your region’s rules and that the product you buy is the one you applied for.
GP trainee study leave funding: frequently asked questions
Can I claim for both an AKT course and an SCA course?
In many regions, yes. London, KSS, Thames Valley and Wessex and Yorkshire and the Humber all fund one course for each exam, subject to their own rules. You need approval for each one separately.
Can I claim for more than one AKT or SCA course?
It depends on the region. The Midlands allows up to two courses per exam across training. Thames Valley and Wessex allows one per exam across the whole programme. Yorkshire and the Humber funds one per exam attempt. Extra courses usually need discretionary approval, particularly for a resit.
Can I claim for an online question bank?
In some regions. London funds question banks but counts them as your one exam preparation course. The Midlands excludes software subscriptions as a standalone expense. Check before you buy.
Can I claim if I’ve already bought the course?
Don’t assume so. Many GP Schools refuse retrospective applications, and Northern Ireland states this explicitly. Contact your study leave team to ask whether any exception is possible.
Can I claim for an SCA mock exam?
It depends on your region. Some treat a mock as an exam preparation course, while others need separate or discretionary approval. A mock is not covered just because it helps you prepare for the SCA.
Do I have to take study leave days to claim for an online course?
Not always. Some systems let you apply for course funding using zero study leave days. You still have to follow the approval process.
Can ST1, ST2 and ST3 trainees apply?
Yes, if the course suits your stage of training. An AKT course is easier to justify in ST2 or ST3 when your exam is approaching, and some regions limit SCA course funding to ST3.
Can less-than-full-time trainees claim?
Yes. Study leave days are pro rata for your working pattern, and course funding follows the same national and regional rules as for full-time trainees.
What if my application is rejected?
Ask why. The reason may be the provider, the educational justification, the timing, the cost or a regional course you were expected to use first. Discuss it with your Educational Supervisor or TPD, and use your region’s review process if appropriate. A rejection for one course does not mean every external course is excluded.
Before you pay for an AKT or SCA course: a quick checklist
– Find your GP School’s current study leave policy.
– Check whether AKT or SCA preparation is funded in your region and from which providers.
– Confirm that your chosen course format is accepted.
– Discuss your learning needs with your Educational Supervisor and add a PDP objective if required.
– Get approval before you pay.
– Keep your approval, receipt, course outline and any certificate.
– Submit your claim through the correct system before the deadline.
A published maximum is not the same as guaranteed reimbursement. Check first.
How Arora Medical Education Can Help
GP training is demanding enough without paying for preparation that might have been funded. Find out what your region allows, agree your learning needs with your supervisor and get approval in place. Then choose the preparation that fits the exam in front of you.
The Arora MRCGP AKT Ultimate Package brings several ways of learning together. It includes structured video teaching across clinical medicine, statistics and administration, audio courses for revising on the move and a question bank with full mock exams. You also get flashcards for key concepts and guidelines, three full-day live AKT courses covering Clinical, Statistics and Administration with watch-back, and regular live AKT clinics on high-yield topics and common mistakes. You can choose 1, 3, 6 or 12 months of access to match how far away your exam is.
The Arora MRCGP SCA Ultimate Package focuses on consultation practice. It includes video teaching on a wide range of presentations, a case bank of over 200 role-play cases to practise with colleagues or with optional AI-supported solo practice, and audio teaching on consultation approach and management. Weekly live SCA clinics give you role-play practice with tutor feedback, with short-term watch-back, and a structured planner helps you fit revision around clinical work. Separate tutor-led SCA mock exams are available if you want a more formal assessment of your consultations. You can choose 1, 3, 6 or 12 months of access to match how far away your exam is.
If you’re applying for study leave funding, we can send your receipt and certificate on request.
– Explore the MRCGP AKT Ultimate Package
– Explore the MRCGP SCA Ultimate Package
– Download our free AKT and SCA study planners
Official guidance and references
These NHS and professional body sources were used to prepare this guide.
- NHS England: national study leave guidance
- NHS England London: GP exam preparation courses FAQ
- South East study leave: KSS GP registrars in a practice
- Midlands: GP study leave
- Thames Valley and Wessex: GP study leave policy (March 2026)
- South West: GP study leave guidance
- East of England: GP study leave
- Yorkshire and the Humber: GP study leave
- North East: GP study leave
- Scotland Deanery: GP registrar study leave FAQs
- Health Education and Improvement Wales: study leave
- NIMDTA: GP study leave policy (October 2025)
- Academy of Medical Royal Colleges: reimbursement of examination fees
- GOV.UK: 2026 resident doctors deal implementation update
- RCGP: important MRCGP exam information and fees
Last checked: November 2026. Funding guidance changes often. This article is general educational information and does not replace the approval requirements of your GP School, employer or training organisation.
Other Blogs That May Help
– What Is the MRCGP? AKT, SCA and WPBA Explained
– GP Training Structure Explained: What Happens in ST1, ST2 and ST3
– ARCP Explained: What Happens at Your GP Training Review
– Why So Many GP Trainees Struggle With AKT Statistics (And What Fixes It)
– 5 Biggest Mistakes GP Trainees Make in the MRCGP AKT (And How to Fix Them)
– MRCGP SCA Time Management: Why Speed Isn’t the Answer (And What Actually Works)
Author Bio — Dr Aman Arora
Hi! I’m Dr. Aman Arora, a Portfolio GP with over a decade of clinical and teaching experience, dedicated to helping doctors achieve their goals with confidence. Having had the privilege of supporting more than 50,000 doctors worldwide across exams such as MRCGP AKT, SCA, MSRA, PLAB 2 and PLAB 1, I understand the challenges you face and the strategies needed to overcome them. Through personalised face-to-face sessions, engaging online courses, mocks, audio and a vibrant social media community, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you’re looking to pass crucial exams or take the next big step in your medical career, we’re here to help you succeed. Feel free to get in touch with any thoughts, questions, or ideas — I look forward to working with you and being part of your journey.
Author Bio — Dr Pooja Arora
Dr Pooja Arora is a GP with a background in Medical Politics, where she passionately focuses on improving the opportunities and working conditions for junior doctors. She is proud to hold FRCGP (Fellow of Royal College of General Practitioners).
You can find out more about Pooja’s previous roles and qualifications here.
