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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of Meditest. If you have any more questions, feel free to get in touch with us!

1. What is the "level system"?

MediTest uses a 3-level system to help you build knowledge step by step:

Each level builds on the last, so you’re always progressing towards top performance.

2. What are "focused classes"?

Focused Classes are short, targeted question sets built around specific conditions, systems, or skills — like asthma, rules for the DVLA, or safeguarding.Each class zeroes in on a single theme so you can:They're perfect for squeezing in a focused 5–10 minute revision session — no fluff, just high-yield practice.

They're perfect for squeezing in a focused 5–10 minute revision session — no fluff, just high-yield practice.

3. What does it run on?

We are currently focusing on the web launch first. We will be bringing the app to iOS and Android in the next couple of months.If you can't wait for the app click on this link to see how to install web apps.

4. How do I cancel my subscription?

You can manage or cancel your subscription anytime via your account settings or by visiting the Stripe billing portal.You will retain access until the start of the next billing period.

5. Is my progress saved across devices?

Yes, your progress is stored securely in the cloud and synced across all devices when you're logged in.

6. Can I try Meditest before paying?

Yes! Our free plan lets you try daily questions and explore the app before upgrading.

7. What exams are currently supported?

We currently support the MSRA, with more exams planned soon. If you would like to help add an exam please get in touch.

8. Can I suggest new questions or report errors?

Absolutely—there’s a feedback option in the app for reporting errors or submitting suggestions.

9. Do you offer group or institutional discounts?

Yes, we’re happy to work with universities, trusts, and training bodies. Please get in touch for details.

A Complete Guide To The MSRA

Contents

Preparing for the MSRA can feel overwhelming — there’s a lot to take in, from understanding the structure of the exam to knowing what topics to revise and how the scoring works. This guide is designed to give you a complete, clear overview of everything you need to know.This is your one-stop resource for understanding the MSRA in full. Below, you'll find a breakdown of each section — feel free to jump to the part you need or read it all the way through.

We hope you find this guide helpful as you prepare for the MSRA. When you're ready to start revising, click below to begin your journey with MEDITEST.

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What is the MSRA

The Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment (MSRA) is a computer-based exam used by the UK’s NHS specialty recruitment process. It helps rank applicants by assessing two core competencies: professional judgement and clinical problem solving.The exam is taken at a Pearson VUE test centre and is typically required early in the application process, with your MSRA score contributing heavily — or sometimes entirely — to your ranking for interview or direct offers.Originally developed for General Practice recruitment, the MSRA is now used across a wide range of specialties.

Specialties that Use the MSRA

Some specialties use your score to shortlist for interview, while others use it as a standalone ranking tool. For GP, psychiatry, and ophthalmology, for example, a high MSRA score can directly secure you an offer without an interview.

How is it structured?

The MSRA is a computer-based exam made up of two separate papers, both taken on the same day at a Pearson VUE test centre.

The first is the Professional Dilemmas paper, which lasts 95 minutes and contains 50 situational judgement questions designed to assess your professional judgement, ethics, and decision-making in a UK clinical setting.

The second is the Clinical Problem Solving paper, lasting 75 minutes with 97 multiple-choice questions that test your applied medical knowledge across a broad range of specialties.Each section contributes 50% to your final score, and both are equally important for securing a strong ranking in your chosen specialty.

Professional Dilemmas

The Professional Dilemmas paper is the MSRA’s version of a Situational Judgement Test. It lasts 95 minutes and contains 50 questions, all designed to assess your ability to behave professionally and make safe, ethical decisions in real-world NHS scenarios.Mastering this section can make a huge difference — it contributes half of your overall MSRA score, and many applicants overlook its impact.This section focuses on your judgement, particularly in areas like:

Types of Questions

There are two question formats:

Clinical Problem Solving Section

The Clinical Problem Solving paper tests your ability to apply medical knowledge in practical, real-world scenarios. It lasts 75 minutes and contains 97 questions, covering a broad range of specialties and clinical presentations you’re likely to encounter as a foundation doctor in the UK.This section assesses how well you can interpret clinical data, make safe management decisions, and prioritise investigations or treatments in line with current UK guidelines.

Topics Covered

You can expect questions from the following areas:

Types of Question

There are two main formats:

Tips for Success

Scoring and Results

The MSRA is scored using a standardised system that compares your performance to other candidates sitting the exam in the same window. Each of the two sections — Professional Dilemmas and Clinical Problem Solving — contributes 50% to your final score.Your raw scores are converted into scaled scores using statistical methods that adjust for question difficulty and performance across the candidate pool.Score Breakdown:

Normally Distributed Scoring

The MSRA scores are normally distributed around a mean of 250 with a standard deviation of 40, meaning there’s no fixed maximum score.

Alongside your numerical score, you’ll also receive a band (1 to 4) for each section. This represents which quartile your score falls into:

When do you get results

MSRA results are typically released around 2–3 weeks after your exam, but this can vary significantly depending on the specialty you applied to and when that specialty chooses to release results.Some specialties, like General Practice or Psychiatry, release results earlier and may even use MSRA scores to make direct offers without interview. Others, such as Radiology or Obstetrics & Gynaecology, may take longer to release scores as part of a wider shortlisting process.In some cases, you may wait several weeks or more after sitting the MSRA before seeing your score — especially if your specialty has a later interview timeline or larger applicant pool.All results are made available through your Oriel application portal.

1. Start Early – and Build Consistency

Don’t cram. The MSRA rewards long-term knowledge and pattern recognition, so start early and build a steady routine. Even 20–30 minutes a day over a few months is more effective than a last-minute blitz.

2. Use Repetition to Lock in Knowledge

Repetition works — especially with high-yield facts and key conditions. Use tools with spaced repetition or revisit key topics regularly to ensure they stay fresh in your mind.

3. Master the Conditions, Not Just the Questions

Avoid falling into the trap of memorising question bank answers. Instead, learn the condition — understand its pathophysiology, presentation, investigations, and management. That way, if a question is worded differently, you’ll still be able to answer it confidently.

4. Focus on Core Topics First

Identify high-yield conditions (e.g. asthma, diabetes, stroke, sepsis, DVLA guidance, safeguarding) and make sure you’ve covered them in depth before chasing niche details. Most clinical questions test understanding of common presentations, not rare syndromes.

5. Don’t Ignore the Professional Dilemmas Section

This makes up 50% of your MSRA score — and it’s where many candidates lose marks. While some dislike this part, the good news is that your score can be significantly improved with preparation.There’s often a clearly good and bad option, and a middle-ground “acceptable” one. Consider what’s appropriate within the UK medical system — think confidentiality, patient safety, team dynamics, GMC guidance, and escalation pathways.Even just doing 10–15 SJT questions a day can build your instincts.

6. Practice with Realistic Timings

The MSRA is time-pressured. Practise under timed conditions to build speed — especially for reading and ranking SJT options quickly and interpreting clinical information under pressure.

7. Track Your Weak Areas and Review Them

Use tools or apps that track your progress and highlight weak areas. Don’t just repeat the easy wins — spend time understanding the concepts you get wrong.

Conclusion

Success in the MSRA comes down to smart preparation, not just hard work. Start early, focus on key conditions, and don’t underestimate the Professional Dilemmas section — it counts for 50% of your score.With the right tools and strategy, you can dramatically increase your chances of a top score and the specialty job you want.Start revising today for free with basic access on MediTest — build confidence through targeted repetition, track your weak areas, and stay motivated with an engaging, efficient learning system.

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