The UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) is a national exam required to practise medicine in the UK. It ensures all new doctors meet the same safety and competence standards. The UKMLA applies to graduates from 2024 onwards.
The UKMLA is a mandatory assessment for anyone who wants to work as a doctor in the UK. Many students ask what the UKMLA is and when it starts. This exam checks both medical knowledge and clinical skills. It applies equally to UK and international medical graduates. Passing the UKMLA is required for GMC registration.
What Is the UKMLA?
The UKMLA is a national licensing exam for doctors in the UK. It confirms that new doctors are safe, competent, and ready to practise. All candidates are assessed against the same standard.
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What Does the UKMLA Include?
The UKMLA has two main parts:
- Applied Knowledge Test (AKT)
- Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA)
- Covers all core medical subjects
- Tests clinical reasoning, communication, and decision-making
- Aligned with UK healthcare standards
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How Does the UKMLA Work? (Step-by-Step)
- Study the UKMLA content map
- Sit the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT)
- Complete the Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA)
- Pass both parts to apply for UK medical registration
When Is the UKMLA Starting?
The UKMLA starts with medical students graduating from 2024 onwards. Exams are usually taken during the final year of study. Test sittings generally run between January and July each year.
Who Needs to Take the UKMLA?
- UK medical students graduating in 2024 or later
- International medical graduates seeking UK registration
- Anyone applying for first-time GMC registration
How Much Does the UKMLA Cost?
- Included in tuition fees for UK medical students
- Resit fees depend on the medical school
- International graduates pay separate fees for each exam part
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How to Prepare for the UKMLA
- Use the official UKMLA content map
- Practise multiple-choice questions
- Prepare for OSCE-style assessments
- Review UK clinical guidelines and ethics
Study Medicine or Dentistry Abroad
If you are planning a career in healthcare and preparing for the UKMLA, studying medicine or dentistry abroad can be a practical pathway. Study Medicine & Dentistry Abroad in Europe supports students with university selection, admissions guidance, and preparation aligned with UK medical standards.
Expert guidance can help you choose the right programme, understand UKMLA requirements early, and stay on track toward practising in the UK.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
What is the UKMLA exam?
The UKMLA exam tests medical knowledge, clinical skills, and professional behaviour needed to practise safely in the UK.
When does UKMLA start?
The UKMLA applies to students graduating from 2024 onwards.
When will UKMLA be implemented?
UKMLA implementation begins with the 2024 graduating cohort.
Is the UKMLA pass or fail?
The UKMLA is a pass/fail exam. Both parts must be passed.
Do international graduates take the UKMLA?
Yes. International graduates sit exams aligned with UKMLA standards.
Author
Reviewed by an academic medical education content team with experience in UK licensing and postgraduate training pathways.
Last Updated
Last updated: 20 January 2026