As GP trainee doctors, the Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA) exam can feel like a daunting assessment to overcome. Rumours about pass rates and trainees failing can’t help that feeling of unease. Recent data on the SCA sittings from November 2023 to June 2024 offers an insightful view of these trends, hopefully clearing up misconceptions and giving you a confidence boost.

Pass Rate Trends: A Journey with Ups and Downs

The SCA pass rates have shown variability over the past few sittings. The first November 2023 sitting had the lowest pass rate, at 66.34%, while May 2024 saw the highest, at 77.92%. Early 2024 showed a noticeable improvement, with March 2024 reaching a pass rate of 72%. However, by June 2024, the rate dipped again to 67.96%.

What does this mean for you? While fluctuations in pass rates might seem concerning, they’re a reminder that every exam sitting comes with its unique set of challenges. These variations might be linked to factors like candidate preparation, exam difficulty, or even external influences. What you can control is how you prepare, approach the exam, and manage your mindset through the process.

First-time Candidates: A Strong Showing

Across all sittings, first-time candidates consistently performed better than those retaking the exam. The percentage of first-time candidates ranged from 59.42% (June 2024) to 86.8% (second November 2023), with their pass rates often outpacing the overall average. In February 2024, for example, the overall pass rate was 69.43%, but first-time candidates achieved a success rate of 75.1%.

This trend is encouraging for those of you sitting the SCA for the first time. It highlights the importance of thorough preparation and how crucial it is to make the most of that first attempt. And if you’re retaking the exam, it’s worth reflecting on what can be improved in your approach. Don’t be discouraged; use the experience of the first attempt as a powerful learning tool.

Turning Data into Motivation

Ultimately, the data from these sittings reflect a complex blend of factors, from external events to candidate preparedness, that influence pass rates and scores. What stands out is the consistent performance of first-time candidates and the relative stability in mean scores, even when pass rates fluctuate.

You are capable of success in this exam. If you are not a first-time candidate, reflecting on your past performance is critical; discussing with your educational supervisors & training programme directors can help you get an outside perspective on your consultation skills. Also, consider joining a practice group and Mock SCA sessions.

Whether you are a first-time candidate or not, preparation is vital for this exam. We suggest a minimum 3 to 4-month preparation window for the SCA exam. Another tip is to try to keep your Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) learning refreshed, as this will help you, especially in the Clinical Management & Medical Complexity section of the SCA domains.

Remember, the SCA is just another assessment, albeit an important one. With the right approach and practice, you will pass, so keep your chin up.

Dr Sakaria Farah
PassCME SCA Tutor