FAQs ST4 Self Assessment

We will continue to add FAQs to this page, but we also encourage you to read the ST4 self assessment guidance, if you are unsure of anything, as you may find the answer in the guidance.

I obtained a prize or distinction in my Primary FRCA; is this awarded points?

Yes, this is awarded 4 points in Domain 2, if you have received a Letter of Commendation or the Nuffield Prize (no points are awarded for achieving a level of distinction in an individual component of the Primary).

In Domain 4, do I require all components in the grid for 4/5 points?

No; you only require to fulfil one of the bullet points for 4/5 points.

I have an article published in a journal which isn’t listed on PubMed – can I score any points in Domain 7?

Yes you should submit your evidence according to the grid, and must supply evidence that the journal is peer-reviewed.

If my score is changed during the verification process, will I be “penalised”?

In general, no. If a score is changed within a Domain, this will be scored according to the Domain criteria. However, if an applicant scores themselves more highly and then has no supporting documentation for this score, they may have a reduction in the Global Rating Score. Candidates should read the self assessment guidance carefully to ensure that they score themselves correctly.

Can I include research undertaken during an intercalated degree in Domain 5?

No; however, if the research led to a publication, this can be awarded points in Domain 7.

In the Self-Assessment Criteria, some of the Domains contain Either/Or statements, and some do not; does this mean I need to show evidence for all components?

No; across the grid, all descriptors which contain more than one bullet point are either/or.

I was awarded an MD for research undertaken in my standard anaesthetic training. Does this count points in domain 1?

An MD that is awarded as part of standard anaesthetic training does not score points.(See applicant guidance for further details)

Why has the criteria in domain 9 (Continuing Professional Development) been changed?

The criteria for domain 9 were change in 2022 by MDRS across all specialties. This change was to allow applicants to count more local educational events as some do not have access to regional and national courses which would disadvantage them. It includes points for simulation and regional anaesthesia CPD to reflect the greater emphasis on these in stage 1 training where the majority of doctors in training will have had regional access to these events.

I had a query regarding Self-Assessment Criteria Anaesthetics ST4 under Domain 1 Additional Degrees and qualifications. Can passing FFICM Final MCQ be considered as part 1 of a postgraduate exam and be awarded 2 points in the portfolio?

Yes this would count as 2 points in Domain 1.