If you want to become a doctor in the UK, you’ll need to pass the UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA). This is a new test that all medical students will need to take before they can start work as a doctor. It checks that every student meets the same safe standard—no matter where they studied.
The UKMLA applies to UK medical students graduating from 2024 onwards. It also affects international medical graduates, as changes to other exams now match UKMLA standards.
Why Was the UKMLA Introduced?
The UKMLA was created to make things fair for everyone. In the past, only those who chose to study medicine abroad in Europe or elsewhere had to take extra exams to prove their knowledge. Now, every future doctor will take the same test. This ensures all doctors are equally prepared, no matter where they trained.
What Does the UKMLA Include?
The UKMLA has two parts:
1. Applied Knowledge Test (AKT)
This is a computer-based exam that checks your medical knowledge and how you use it.
- It includes 200 questions, split into two exam papers.
- Topics cover everything from child health to emergency medicine.
- The format is single-best-answer multiple choice.
UK students take the AKT at their university. International graduates take it at approved testing centres.
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2. Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA)
This test checks how well you apply your knowledge in real-life settings.
- It is like an OSCE, where you are observed performing clinical tasks.
- You’ll also be tested on communication and decision-making skills.
For UK students, the CPSA is run by their university under official standards. International graduates take a similar version set by the regulator.
What Is the UKMLA Content Map?
The UKMLA content map is a list of all the topics and skills that may be tested in the exam. It includes:
- 311 conditions, like asthma or diabetes
- 212 presentations, such as chest pain or breathlessness
- Practical skills, like taking blood pressure or using medical tools
This map helps students know what to revise. It follows the national guide on what a newly qualified doctor should know and be able to do.
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Who Needs to Take the UKMLA?
You must take the UKMLA if:
- You are a UK medical student graduating in 2024 or later
- You are an international graduate who wants to register as a doctor in the UK
For international graduates, the current medical exams have changed to match UKMLA rules, so everyone is tested the same way.
When Does the UKMLA Take Place?
The UKMLA usually runs between January and July each year. UK students take the test during their final year. International graduates can sit the exam based on available test dates at approved centres.
How Much Does the UKMLA Cost?
For UK students, the UKMLA is free and included in their university course. If a resit is needed, there might be a fee, but this will depend on the university.
For international graduates, the cost is likely to be similar to existing fees for other licensing exams. This usually includes a fee for each part of the assessment, plus any required language tests.
How to Prepare for the UKMLA
Here are simple steps to help you prepare:
For the AKT:
- Study the content map to understand what topics may appear.
- Use practice questions to get used to the format.
- Focus on key areas like ethics, clinical guidelines, and UK medical systems.
- Take mock exams to practise timing and boost confidence.
For the CPSA:
- Practise clinical skills like patient exams and communication.
- Take part in mock OSCE-style assessments.
- Use checklists to stay organised during practical tasks.
- Review real-life case studies to improve clinical thinking.
How Are UKMLA Results Shared?
The UKMLA is a pass/fail exam. You must pass both the AKT and CPSA to apply for registration. You will receive your score privately, but it won’t be made public. Universities and regulators may use the data to improve training, but personal scores stay confidential.
Final Thoughts
The UKMLA is a new and important part of becoming a doctor in the UK. It helps ensure every new doctor, no matter where they studied, is ready to treat patients safely and professionally.
If you’re a current or future medical student, understanding the UKMLA is key. Prepare well, use the content map as your guide, and focus on building both knowledge and hands-on skills.
Start Your Medical Journey with Expert Support
Study Medicine & Dentistry Abroad in Europe offers students a trusted path to begin their careers in healthcare. Whether you’re planning to study medicine or dentistry at a European university, our guidance ensures you meet all the right steps—from choosing the right country to preparing for the UKMLA.
We help you understand admission requirements, support you during your studies, and prepare you for practising in the UK. With the UKMLA now a vital step for all future doctors, our expert team is here to make sure you’re ready—academically and practically.
UKMLA: Frequently Asked Questions
What does the UKMLA test?
The UKMLA checks if you have the knowledge and skills needed to be a safe doctor in the UK. It tests your medical understanding and how well you care for patients.
Do all UK students have to take the UKMLA?
Yes. All UK medical students who graduate in 2024 or later will take the UKMLA before they can work as doctors.
Do international graduates need to take the UKMLA?
Yes. International graduates will sit exams based on the UKMLA rules. These tests are similar in format and cover the same topics.
What is the AKT part of the UKMLA?
The AKT is a computer-based exam with 200 multiple-choice questions. It tests your knowledge of many health topics and medical problems.
What is the CPSA part of the UKMLA?
The CPSA is a practical test. It checks how you talk to patients and carry out clinical tasks like exams and procedures.
When do students take the UKMLA?
UK students usually take it in their final year. The exam runs from January to July each year, with dates set by universities or test centres.