TOP TIPS to pass the RTO domain of the SCA

International Medical Graduates (IMG) GP residents consistently show lower pass rates in the MRCGP SCA exam — but what if the gap could be closed with the right “relating to others” preparation? This article, born from a Master's-level research project, offers practical, evidence-based tips to help IMG trainees excel in the "Relating to Others" domain.

Dr Elizabeth Olowokandi interviewed IMGs who had passed the SCA alongside GP Trainers and an SCA examiner to find out what actually works. The result is a set of actionable strategies — from listening with genuine curiosity rather than ticking ICE boxes, to building personal "stock phrases," engaging in video-reviewed consultations, and starting deliberate practice from ST1 rather than scrambling in ST3.

Grounded in Cognitive Load Theory and the concept of Deliberate Practice, this article reframes consultation skills not as a natural gift, but as something trainable — and gives you the tools to do it. Who is it for? IMG GP residents preparing for the SCA; GP Trainers supporting IMG trainees; programme directors designing SCA preparation curricula.

Key takeaways: Listen with curiosity not checklists · Go beyond ICE · Build fluency through early, deliberate practice · Use role-play and video feedback · Connect socially to build cultural confidence.