It is exam day, and you will be feeling a mix of anxiety and even excitement that it will be over soon. We are here to guide you through what to expect on this momentous day, ensuring you’re well-prepared and confident. Let’s dive into the details and make this process as smooth as possible.
Exam Schedule and Timings
Your exam day will either be in the morning or afternoon session:
- Morning Session: 08:45 – 13:25
- Afternoon Session: 13:20 – 18:05
If you have reasonable adjustments, such as extra reading time, your session will follow these same timings. For other adjustments like additional consultation time or breaks, your session might be extended until 15:00.
Before the Exam Begins
On the day of your exam, you’ll log in to the exam platform and wait in the virtual waiting room. Here, you’ll see a countdown timer indicating when your registration starts.
ID Check
When your invigilator joins, they’ll conduct an ID check. Ensure you have a government-issued photo ID (passport or UK driving license) ready. Simply hold your ID up to the camera for verification. If the camera can’t focus, you’ll need to take a selfie with your ID and email it to exams@rcgp.org.uk. Your invigilator will guide you through this if needed.
Environment Check
Next, you’ll perform an environment check. Use your camera to show a 360-degree view of your room. Remove any clinical documents, charts, or posters beforehand. If your webcam is fixed, you might need your phone to complete this check. Ensure your workspace is clear, except for:
- A water bottle
- A whiteboard and marker for notes
If you lose contact with your invigilator, contact IT Support at 020 3188 7680.
During the Exam
Once your checks are done, you’ll wait for your exam to begin. Here’s how the exam proceeds:
- Consultation Format: 12 Simulated Consultations
- Reading Time: 3 minutes to read the brief for each consultation.
- Consultation Time: 12 minutes for the actual consultation.
- Between Stations: 15 seconds before the next 3-minute brief shows up.
- 9 or 10 cases you see the patient and 2 or 3 cases are audio only
- The entire examination will be recorded remotely and will be viewed and marked later by examiners
- Each of the twelve cases will be independently marked by a different examiner
- Breaks:
- After six consultations, you get a 10-minute break. You can leave the room but inform your invigilator through the direct message function. No phone use is allowed. If you encounter any issues during rounds 1-6, notify your invigilator during this break
- Reruns
- 45 minutes are reserved for reruns if technical issues or interruptions impact your performance. Inform your invigilator immediately after the 6th and 12th stations if you need a rerun.
Logging Out
After completing all stations, you’ll return to the main screen while your exam is processed. This takes about 45 minutes. Remember, you are still under exam conditions during this time.
FAQs
What happens if we lose internet connection?
You’ll be automatically logged out. Use the link in your email to log back in, and you’ll return to your station. Significant disruptions can warrant a rerun.
What if I freeze mid-examination?
Click the ‘refresh’ icon. If this doesn’t help, log off and back in again.
What if I have a technical problem during the examination?
Use the hand raise and direct message features to notify your invigilator. If you can’t connect to the platform, call the SCA IT helpline at 020 3188 7680.
I have a question about the SCA examination platform, what do I do?
Email your questions to exams@rcgp.org.uk.
Finally
Remember, preparation is key. Familiarize yourself with the platform and procedures to reduce stress on exam day. You’ve worked hard to get here—trust in your training and stay focused. Good luck! You’ve got this.
Reference: https://www.rcgp.org.uk/mrcgp-exams/simulated-consultation-assessment/sitting#Examination-day-guide
Dr Sakaria Farah
PassCME SCA Tutor
