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Who needs to take the Clinical Assessment (aka NCA Clinical Assessment)?

Any doctor who qualified on or before 5th August 2025 i.e. more than two years before the Foundation Programme start date must take this UKFPO‑mandated clinical exam. Both UK and international IMG graduates are subject to this requirement

What does the NCA Clinical Assessment involve?

It’s a 12‑station clinical exam (OSCE) lasting approximately 4 hours. Each station is 10 minutes (incl. 1 min reading time). You’ll perform tasks like history‑taking, examinations, prescribing, procedural skills, and communication scenarios .

How much does it cost, and is the fee refundable?

The fee is £850 and non‑refundable—even if your application is withdrawn or you fail .

Can I choose my exam date?

No. UKFPO allocates your date and time. The Clinical Assessment will take place October 2026  for 2027 entry. You will be allocated a morning or afternoon slot and you must attend that single session.

What happens if I fail?

A fail means your foundation training application is deemed ineligible and withdrawn. You cannot progress until you pass.

How long is the exam pass valid?

Once passed, the Clinical Assessment is valid for two years—you don’t need to retake it within that period.

When and how will I get my result?

Results (pass/fail and station‑by‑station feedback) are emailed post‑exam, in accordance with the official UKFPO timeline.

Can I appeal my exam outcome?

No appeal against academic judgement is allowed. You may only appeal on administrative or procedural grounds, in writing, to UKFPO.

Do I need Reasonable Adjustments (e.g. for disability)?

Yes—notify UKFPO as early as possible via helpdesk@foundationprogramme.nhs.uk and provide supporting evidence for adjustments.

Is PLAB or GMC registration a substitute for this?

No. PLAB fulfils GMC registration criteria only. Even if PLAB‑qualified, if you graduated more than two years ago you must take the Clinical Assessment.

What standard is expected to pass?

The level expected is that of a newly graduated UK doctor. Pass marks are set per station using the Angoff method and are not disclosed to candidates.

How can I best prepare?

The UKFPO provides preparatory guidance, but your best preparation is practical clinical experience under supervision. Familiarise yourself with UK resuscitation and NICE guidelines, and practise common procedures to Foundation Year 1 standard. The Arora NCA Assessment+ Package is designed to cover all of this.

When and where is the exam held, and how do I pay?

Held at Manchester University NHS FT’s Oxford Road/Wythenshawe venues, in November each year. UKFPO will email payment instructions (telephone card payment) with deadlines. Dates are allocated—no rescheduling permitted .

Can delays (e.g. visa issues) affect my eligibility?

Yes. If you fail to attend due to issues like visa delays or withdraw for other reasons, the fee remains non‑refundable and your application may be withdrawn .