About the Test

How long is the UKCAT?

The UKCAT lasts two hours. The extended UKCATSEN lasts two and a half hours.

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How is the UKCAT structured?

The UKCAT is an onscreen test consisting of five sub-tests:

  • Verbal reasoning - assesses candidates' ability to think logically about written information and to arrive at a reasoned conclusion
  • Quantitative reasoning - assesses candidates' ability to solve numerical problems
  • Abstract reasoning - assesses candidates' ability to infer relationships from information by convergent and divergent thinking
  • Decision analysis - assesses candidates' ability to deal with various forms of information, to infer relationships, to make informed judgements, and to decide on an appropriate response in situations of complexity and ambiguity.
  • Non-cognitive analysis - identifies the attributes and characteristics of robustness, empathy and integrity that contribute to successful health

Each of the sub-tests will be in a multiple-choice format and will be separately timed.

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If there are a lot of different test dates, is there not a risk that some people will find out the questions in advance?

There is no risk of people finding out the questions in advance. Those who sit on different dates will sit different versions of the test.

We have a large bank of multiple-choice questions, from which a number of different papers can be automatically generated.

All questions have been carefully calibrated to ensure that scoring is comparable across every variant of the test paper.

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Will scrap paper be available?

No, scrap paper will not be available. There is a portable laminated note board and pen in your workstation area for your personal use during the test. In the event this is not available please alert the invigilator.

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Am I allowed to use a dictionary while I take the UKCAT?

No. No books or papers may be taken into the test room.

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If I am dyslexic, or have a physical disability, will the computer give me extra time to finish?

Yes, so long as you have arranged it at the time of booking. There are two versions of UKCAT: the standard UKCAT and SEN (the same test but with extra time). To avoid later difficulties, please read carefully our section on candidates with disabilities.

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Will I be able to use a calculator on the Quantitative reasoning section of the test?

A handheld calculator will be given to candidates during the check-in process upon arrival at the test centre by the test centre staff. The handheld calculator distributed by the test centre staff is the ONLY calculator that may be used during the test. Personal calculators ARE NOT permitted.

The calculator must be returned to the test centre staff at check-out.

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