Non-Cognitive Analysis
UKCAT is interested in expanding the range of information available regarding candidates to medical and dental schools in order to continue improving the admissions process. The non-cognitive analysis section is designed to identify additional attributes and characteristics that contribute to success in either medicine or dentistry careers; robustness, empathy and integrity.
You are given 30 minutes to complete this section. Examples of the types of questions you may be asked can be accessed in the Preparation section of this website. Like the first four subtests, it is not necessary or possible to 'revise' for these questions but you are advised to familiarise yourself with the format before you take your test.
Format of sub-test 5 results
Candidates receive results from the non-cognitive subtest alongside their scaled numerical results from the other parts of UKCAT. However the results from this part of the UKCAT test will not be in a numerical format like the other 4 subtests. You will be given a brief summary of your results for this part of the test in the form of a short descriptive passage.
Two examples would be:
"You appear to balance being self-sufficient, discreet and happy to make your own decisions with being socially and emotionally engaged and outgoing."
"You have a moderate tendency to be impulsive, to take most opportunities as they arise and to be quite emotional in your reactions to events"
It is important to recognise that the results from this part of the assessment cannot be interpreted as an indication of whether you would make a good doctor or dentist at this stage. This is because they describe an aspect of your personal style as compiled by your answers to the specific questions presented to you. Medical and dental professionals require a wide range of styles to fit with the differing demands of the many different areas where they work.
Use of sub-test 5 results
The consortium believes that it is not appropriate to use the results of the non-cognitive sub-test 5 in the actual selection process until such time as there is evidence to support a relationship between the test results and success or failure as a medical or dental student, and eventually as a doctor or dentist. However, it is anticipated that some universities will use the results from the sub-test 5, where appropriate, in the counselling and mentoring of individual students while on their medical/dental degree programme and to assist in their personal development towards becoming a successful doctor or dentist. The test result is therefore still important.
UKCAT continues to work with Consortium members to identify how the results of section 5 might be used in selection in the future.