Multi-Specialty Assessment Recruitment (MSRA)

Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment

After applying in November, the next step will be preparing for and undertaking the Multiple Specialty Recruitment Assessment (MSRA) in December/January.

The MSRA is an examination that the Royal College of Radiologists and many other specialties use to determine who receives an interview. It is therefore essential to spend time preparing for this. It has been around for a number of years, and there are many resources and books which can guide you on how to prepare. This is a computer-based exam offered through the Pearson Vue testing centres. When slots are released, try to book early so you do not have to travel!

Cut off for interview 2024

555 and above - secured interview
548 - 554 reserve list

Structure of the MSRA

Section 1 – Situational Judgement Test/Professional Dilemmas – 58 questions in 110 minutes

This includes questions similar to the SJT done at the end of medical school, where you are given a clinical scenario and asked what you would do in particular situations
Of the 58 questions, only 50 are scored and the other 8 are for piloting purposes
There are two types of questions:
1. Ranking questions – rank 5 different options in order of appropriateness
2. Multiple best answer questions – choose the most appropriate 3 responses

Section 2 – Clinical Problem Solving – 97 questions in 75 minutes

These are more like the typical clinical questions you would have done as part of medical school finals. As the examination was founded by the Royal College of General Practitioners, the style of question is focused on GP consultations/presentations
Of the 97 questions, 86 are scored and 11 are again used for piloting
There are two types of questions:
1. Single best answer questions (SBAs)
2. Extended matching questions (EMQs)

How is the MSRA used?

The MSRA is used to rank all applicants, and the top ~600 candidates are offered interviews based purely on MSRA scores. Furthermore, after interviews have been conducted, interview scores are combined with MSRA scores to determine your final ranking. Therefore, your MSRA score bears weight on your pre-interview score and your post-interview score, and it is important to prepare well for this exam. Please see the RCR website for more detailed statistics on this link.

How do I prepare?

The best resources to prepare for the MSRA are online question banks. There are many options available, including Passmedicine, Pastest and MCQ Bank. For the SJT, it is important to familiarise yourself with GMC's good medical practice, as these are the key principles that form the basis of the SJT component of the exam.

As part of our Radiology Applications series, IR Juniors runs an MSRA preparation webinar, which provides applicants with top tips for the exam. Previous years' talks can be viewed on our YouTube channel. Keep an eye out on our social media for details on future MSRA events.