Regulating doctors, ensuring good medical practice

Gateways guidance: 9.1 Test methods for selection

Prior or as an adjunct to the interview, applicants might take a variety of tests. These must all be non-discriminatory:

  1. ‘Selection to medical school used to be done by straightforward interview. Now they have introduced psychometric testing and OSCEs this might make it more difficult for disabled students unless adjustments are made.’
  2. Medical student

Medical schools must be confident that tests relate to candidates’ suitability for selection. Reasonable adjustments should be provided – see the list of possible reasonable adjustments to assessments in the Appendix. A practice test could be sent to candidates beforehand so they can request reasonable adjustments; this could also provide reassurance to disabled candidates.