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What is the UKMLA?

One national licensing standard, made of two parts.

  • ⏱ 3 min read
  • Everyone
  • Step 1 of 3
  • Reviewed 27 October 2026
AKTApplied Knowledge Test200 single-best-answerquestions in two papersSet by the GMC+CPSAClinical and ProfessionalSkills AssessmentStations and OSCEs runby each medical school=A licence topractise in the UK
The UKMLA: a knowledge test plus a skills assessment.
  • The UK Medical Licensing Assessment is the GMC’s single standard for everyone who wants a licence to practise medicine in the UK.
  • The AKT tests applied medical knowledge. It is set centrally.
  • The CPSA tests clinical and professional skills. Each medical school runs its own.
  • You need to meet the standard in both parts.

Why it exists

  • The same bar wherever you trained.
  • Clear reassurance for patients and employers.
  • A shared yardstick for UK and international graduates.

Common questions

  • Is it a new exam? It is a common standard. The AKT is new in form, and the CPSA builds on assessments schools already ran.
  • Does it replace finals? Schools fit it into their own programmes. Ask yours how it sits alongside other assessments.
  • Where do I find the official detail? On the GMC’s Medical Licensing Assessment pages, which are the source of truth.

Your checklist

  • Read the GMC overview
  • Found out how my school runs the CPSA

This page is general education, reviewed 27 October 2026. Rules, fees and dates change: always confirm with the official sources below. It is not medical, legal or immigration advice.