What Two Years of SCA Tells Us

The MRCGP SCA exam has now been live for just over two years. In fall 2023, it replaced the RCA as the clinical skills component of the MRCGP. I thought it would now be a good time to look at the data. Over the past two years, there have been 19 diets, with data on pass marks, scores and so on available directly from RCGP – here is the raw data..

The Overall Picture: Pass Rates and Trends

The data reveals that SCA pass rates have been notably variable, ranging from a low of 59.75% in October 2025 (the lowest so far) to a high of 77.92% in May 2024. The average pass rate across all diets sits at approximately 68.5%, which represents a moderate pass rate that requires serious preparation and dedication.

What’s particularly noteworthy is the trajectory of pass rates over time. After a relatively stable start in late 2023 and early 2024, we saw a significant peak in May 2024, followed by a general downward trend. The most recent results from October 2025 show the lowest pass rate in the exam’s history. I am sure RCGP will be looking at this outlier, specifically as it raises important questions about either increasing difficulty standards or changes in candidate preparedness.

However, despite the low overall pass rate, first-time candidates still maintained a respectable 71% pass rate, preserving that consistent first-time advantage. This suggests the exam itself remains passable for well-prepared candidates, but perhaps highlights that those struggling with specific competencies face significant challenges.

This variability suggests that the SCA is still evolving as an assessment tool, with standard-setting processes potentially being refined to ensure consistency and validity. For candidates, this underscores the importance of thorough preparation regardless of which diet you’re sitting.

First-Time Candidates: A Clear Advantage

One of the most consistent findings across all diets is that first-time candidates significantly outperform those resitting the exam.

On average, first-time candidates achieve pass rates around 73%, compared to the overall average of 68.5%. This 4-5 percentage point advantage is substantial and consistent.

So why is this?

First-time candidates bring fresh preparation, recent study, and perhaps less anxiety about the specific format. Of course, we can’t deny the fact that those re-sitting may already be at a disadvantage. Those resitting may be dealing with previous negative experiences, gaps in clinical knowledge, or consultation skills that require more fundamental development rather than just exam technique. Although the RCGP has also tried to improve the odds for international medical graduates, it is also likely that a higher percentage of those re-sitting are IMGs, owing to the communication and procedural difficulties the exam expects of GP trainees.

For candidates, this emphasizes the critical importance of being fully prepared before your first attempt. While resits are available, maximizing your chances on the first sitting should be your primary goal.

Seasonal Patterns and Candidate Numbers

The data reveals interesting patterns in candidate numbers throughout the year. The busiest diets tend to be in the spring and early summer months, with June 2025 seeing the highest number of candidates at 823. Conversely, autumn diets (September and October) typically have lower participation, with October 2025 seeing just 559 candidates.

This seasonal variation likely reflects the training cycle for GP registrars, with many completing their training and seeking to pass their MRCGP examinations in the spring before starting as qualified GPs in the summer. The lower autumn numbers may represent candidates who need to resit or those on extended training pathways.

The May 2024 Peak: What Went Right?

May 2024 stands out as an exceptional diet, with a pass rate of 77.92% and a first-time candidate pass rate of 80.6%. This represents the best performance in the SCA’s history to date. Several factors may have contributed to this:

The proportion of first-time candidates was relatively high at 72%, though not the highest on record. More significantly, this diet came after several months of relatively stable pass rates, suggesting candidates may have developed effective preparation strategies based on accumulated experience and shared insights from previous diets.

It’s also worth noting that by May 2024, there had been sufficient time for preparation resources, courses, and study groups to evolve and adapt to the specific demands of the SCA format. Candidates sitting in May 2024 had the benefit of learning from the experiences of those who had gone before them.

The Highest SCA Marks

There is hardly an obvious pattern with the highest marks over the last 19 diets. However, the Oct ’25 sitting which also had the lowest pass rate, also stands out as the lowest highest mark in the SCA’s history. My prediction at this point is that the Jan ’26 SCA exam results will show a higher higher mark than the previous average, as the RCGP tries to rectify this decline.

Key Lessons for Future Candidates

Drawing together these insights, here are some potential lessions for ST3 doctors preparing for the SCA:

Preparation matters enormously. The first-time advantage consistently demonstrates that coming to the exam well-prepared gives you the best chance of success. Don’t underestimate the challenge or assume your clinical experience alone will carry you through.

Focus on core consultation skills. With marks out of 126 and mean scores typically around 83-84, there’s a clear standard to meet. Excellence in fundamental consultation skills such as active listening, appropriate examination, clear explanations, and safety-netting, will form the foundation of success.

Expect variability but don’t be discouraged. While pass rates fluctuate, well-prepared candidates continue to pass consistently. Focus on building robust clinical and communication skills rather than trying to “game” a particular diet.

Consider timing thoughtfully. While pass rates don’t vary dramatically by season, ensure you’re scheduling your attempt when you can dedicate adequate preparation time and when it fits with your training schedule. Remember, give your first attempt all you have!

The SCA remains a challenging but achievable examination. With two years of data now available, candidates can approach their preparation with greater insight into what the exam demands and how best to position themselves for success.

As a reminder, we offer SCA revision packages consisting of 25 AI Roleplays, personalised feedback built around NICE and RCGP criteria, an AI Tutor an instant case generation. For more information, visit our SCA revision home page.