USMLE vs UKMLA: Purpose
USMLE vs UKMLA: Regulatory Bodies
The United State Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is conducted by the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). The United Kingdom Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) is conducted by the General Medical Council (GMC).
USMLE vs UKMLA: Exam Pattern
There are certain variations in the exam structure of the USMLE and the UKMLA.
In the case of USMLE, there are three steps.
- USMLE Step 1
- USMLE Step 2 CK
- USMLE Step 3
When it comes to the UKMLA, there are only two steps.
- Part 1: Applied Knowledge Test
- Part 2: Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment
USMLE vs UKMLA: Content Areas Assessed
USMLE Step 1:
- Knowledge and application of important concepts and basic science.
- Understanding of principles and mechanisms underlying health, disease and modes of therapy.
USMLE Step 2:
- Knowledge of medicine, medical skills, and clinical skills.
- Knowledge of health promotion and disease prevention.
USMLE Step 3:
- Knowledge of medicine, biomedical and clinical science.
- Patient management in ambulatory settings.
UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT):
This is a written assessment of applied clinical knowledge.
UKMLA Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA):
This is a performance-based assessment of clinical and professional skills, knowledge, and behaviours.
The UKMLA assesses your ability for:
- Readiness for safe practice
- Managing uncertainty
- Delivering person-centred care
It also evaluates six sections:
- Areas of clinical practice
- Areas of professional knowledge
- Clinical and professional capabilities
- Practical skills and procedures
- Patient presentations
- Conditions
CRITERIA | USMLE | UKMLA |
| Full Name | United States Medical Licensing Examination | United Kingdom Medical Licensing Assessment |
| Purpose | Registration as a doctor in the United States | Registration as a doctor in the United Kingdom |
| Regulatory Bodies | FSMB and NBME | General Medical Council (GMC) |
| Exam Steps/Parts | Three steps: Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 3 | Two parts: Part 1 (AKT), Part 2 (CPSA) |
| Focus | Skills and knowledge for the American healthcare system | Fit to practise medicine in the United Kingdom |
| Target Candidates | International medical graduates | International and UK medical graduates |
Conclusion
By gaining clarity on these differences, candidates can effectively prepare for and successfully navigate the licensing requirements necessary to pursue their medical careers in the United States or the United Kingdom.
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