A complete plan to pass the UK Medical Licensing Assessment — understanding the AKT and CPSA, building a study timeline, and using the MLA content map to revise efficiently.
Understand the two parts of the UKMLA
The UKMLA combines an Applied Knowledge Test (AKT), a computer-based exam of applied clinical knowledge, with a Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA). Both are built around the GMC’s MLA content map, which defines the presentations and conditions every new UK doctor should manage safely.
Build your study timeline
A typical preparation window is 3 to 6 months. Spend the early phase covering the MLA content map with reading and questions, then shift to timed practice and full mock papers as the AKT approaches.
- Early phase: map the content map, reading plus daily questions
- Middle phase: target weak presentation groups using analytics
- Final weeks: timed AKT-style mocks under exam conditions
- Alongside: build clinical and communication skills for the CPSA
Use the MLA content map as your spine
The MLA content map is the blueprint for both parts. Aligning your revision and question practice to it ensures you cover every required presentation and condition, with extra focus on common and acute scenarios that carry high yield.
Prepare for the CPSA
The CPSA assesses clinical and professional skills in practice — history taking, examination, procedures, communication and professionalism. Practise structured, safe and patient-centred performance, ideally with feedback from peers or seniors.
- Practise core examinations and procedures to a structured routine
- Rehearse history taking and counselling out loud
- Make patient safety and clear communication explicit
- Seek feedback and iterate before the assessment
Protect your wellbeing
Consistent, well-paced revision with protected rest will serve you far better than last-minute cramming. Manage stress actively so you perform at your best across both parts of the UKMLA.
Get exam-ready with Essential UKMLA
Prepare for the AKT with a question bank mapped to the MLA content map, with detailed explanations and realistic mock exams.
Start preparing for UKMLA →Frequently asked questions
How do I pass the UKMLA?
Prepare for 3 to 6 months, align your revision to the GMC MLA content map, use an AKT-focused question bank with detailed explanations, target weak presentation groups, sit timed mocks, and practise structured clinical and communication skills for the CPSA.
How long should I prepare for the UKMLA?
Most candidates prepare for around 3 to 6 months, increasing timed question practice in the final weeks before the AKT.
What is the difference between the AKT and CPSA?
The AKT is a written, computer-based test of applied clinical knowledge, while the CPSA is a practical assessment of clinical and professional skills. Both are based on the MLA content map.
What is the best way to revise for the AKT?
Map your revision to the MLA content map, use a quality question bank daily, review every explanation, target your weak presentation groups, and complete timed mock papers before the exam.