🩺 NCA Preparation Course (UK Foundation Programme Eligibility)

What is the NCA (National Clinical Assessment)?

The National Clinical Assessment (NCA) is a mandatory OSCE-style examination for international medical graduates (IMGs) and some UK graduates who wish to apply for the UK Foundation Programme (UKFP).

It is designed to confirm that you have the clinical knowledge, skills, and professionalism required to start working as a Foundation Year 1 (F1) doctor in the NHS. The assessment is run by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust on behalf of the UK Foundation Programme Office (UKFPO).

Why Do You Need the NCA?

Before applying to the UK Foundation Programme, IMGs must complete an eligibility application. If approved, you may then be required to sit the NCA Clinical Assessment to demonstrate that your skills meet the UK standard.

You will need to complete the eligibility process if:

  • ✅ You are studying at, or have qualified from, a non-UK medical school.
  • ✅ You graduated from a UK medical school before 04 August 2024.
  • ✅ You studied at a UK medical school campus outside the UK (e.g., Cyprus, Malaysia, Malta).
  • ✅ You previously applied for UKFP but were unsuccessful or withdrew before starting training.

You do not need an eligibility application if:

  • ❌ You are a UK medical student expected to qualify by 04 August 2026.
  • ❌ You graduated from a UK medical school on or after 05 August 2024.

👉 Official UKFP guidance: Eligibility Applications 2026

What Does the NCA Assess?

The exam consists of around 12 OSCE stations (10 minutes each) assessing:

  • 📋 History-taking (including challenging or complex scenarios)
  • 🩺 Clinical examination of stable conditions
  • 💊 Prescribing safety and BNF-based decision-making
  • 🚨 Recognition and initial management of acutely unwell patients
  • 🏥 Surgical and perioperative care
  • 🧾 Discharge planning and safe handover
  • 👩‍⚕️ Interprofessional teamwork
  • 💬 Communication skills (e.g., breaking bad news, handling difficult conversations)
  • ⚖️ Ethics, professionalism, and patient safety
  • 🛠️ Practical procedures (IV cannulation, venepuncture, ECG interpretation, catheterisation, CPR)

About Our NCA Preparation Course

  • 🎯 Structured teaching aligned with the NCA curriculum
  • 👩‍⚕️ OSCE-style practice stations with detailed feedback
  • 📝 Mock assessments simulating the real exam
  • 🗣️ Communication & professionalism training for NHS standards
  • 🛠️ Hands-on practice with manikins, simulated patients, and advanced models
  • 📚 Comprehensive notes, checklists, and exam-oriented resources

Why Choose Us?

  • ✅ Run by experienced NHS doctors who understand the UK system
  • ✅ Access to 2 real SimMan simulators and advanced clinical manikins
  • ✅ Onsite and online blended teaching
  • ✅ Individualised performance analysis to identify your strengths and weaknesses
  • ✅ Support with eligibility applications, CV building, and post-exam career planning

✨ Take the next step towards your NHS career.
Join our NCA Preparation Course and build the skills, confidence, and strategy you need to succeed.

📍 Location: PLAB Guide Academy, 308 Moseley Road, Manchester, M19 2LH
📞 Contact: manager@plabguide.co.uk