Exam Guides - 12 min read

Ultimate SCA Preparation Guide 2026

Complete guide to SCA preparation for 2026. Everything you need to know about the MRCGP Simulated Consultation Assessment including format, marking criteria, and top preparation strategies.

What is the SCA Exam?

The Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA) is a crucial component of the MRCGP examination. It assesses patient-centred consultation skills, clinical reasoning, communication, and professional values in realistic general practice scenarios.

SCA Exam Format

The SCA consists of 12 clinical stations, each lasting 10 minutes. Candidates interact with trained role players who portray patients, and each station is marked against standardised criteria covering data gathering, clinical management, and interpersonal skills.

Key Preparation Strategies

Effective SCA preparation combines clinical knowledge revision, consultation skills practice, timed roleplay, and feedback on performance. Practising realistic cases helps identify weak spots before the exam.

Common SCA Topics

The SCA covers cardiovascular, respiratory, mental health, musculoskeletal, dermatology, paediatrics, women's health, men's health, elderly care, prescribing, ethics, and communication challenges.

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