The Ultimate UKMLA Study Plan: What to Revise and When

The UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) is a mandatory exam for all medical graduates aiming to practise in the UK. With two key components—the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) and the Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA)—a structured study plan is essential for success.

This guide provides a detailed timeline for what to revise and when to ensure candidates maximise their preparation.

Understanding the UKMLA Structure

Before creating a study plan, it’s essential to understand the exam format:

AKT: A written exam assessing medical knowledge across core clinical topics.
CPSA: A practical assessment similar to an OSCE, testing clinical and professional skills in real-world scenarios.

The UKMLA aligns with the General Medical Council (GMC) curriculum, covering core medical knowledge, professional behaviour, and patient safety.

Three-Month Study Plan for UKMLA Preparation

Month 1: Building Strong Foundations

Focus on understanding key medical concepts, reinforcing core knowledge, and identifying weak areas.

Study primary medical specialities according to the MLA content map.
Use Quesmed’s Knowledge Library to review high-yield topics.
Begin practising SBA (Single Best Answer) questions daily.
Allocate time for active recall and spaced repetition using Quesmed’s flashcards.

Month 2: Strengthening Clinical Application

This phase should focus on applying knowledge to clinical cases and improving decision-making skills.

Increase the number of SBA practice questions to test the application of knowledge.
Engage in case-based discussions to develop structured diagnostic approaches.
Focus on clinical guidelines and national protocols, such as NICE guidelines.
Begin timed mock tests to simulate exam conditions and assess progress.

Month 3: Intensive Exam Practice and Final Review

As the exam approaches, focus on timed practice, revision of weak areas, and fine-tuning test-taking strategies.

Take full-length UKMLA mock exams to improve time management.
Review mistakes from practice tests and reinforce challenging topics.
Continue with active recall and flashcard-based revision for last-minute retention.
Prepare for the CPSA by practising clinical skills and communication scenarios.

Key Areas to Focus on for UKMLA Success

Clinical Guidelines & Protocols: Knowledge of NICE guidelines and GMC standards is essential.
Statistics and Medical Ethics: Understand ethical dilemmas, patient safety, and be familiar with basic medical statistics including study design and calculations.
Diagnostic Reasoning & Investigations: Be familiar with interpreting test results, imaging, and lab findings.

Strategies for Effective UKMLA Revision

Practice: Regular SBA practice is essential for developing exam confidence.
Follow a Structured Study Plan: Allocate specific topics to different weeks and adjust based on progress.
Simulate Exam Conditions: Timed tests will help with pacing and question comprehension.
Engage in Peer Discussions: Explaining concepts to others improves understanding and retention.

Conclusion

A well-structured study plan is key to passing the UKMLA. Candidates can confidently approach the exam by focusing on foundational knowledge, clinical application, and exam-style questions.

Quesmed provides comprehensive UKMLA revision tools, including question banks, mock exams, and interactive learning resources. Start your UKMLA preparation today with a study plan that ensures success.

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