AKT Exam Dates 2026
The RCGP runs the Applied Knowledge Test four times a year, in January, April, July, and October. Here are the upcoming dates for 2026, along with everything you need to know about format and eligibility.
Exam format
Since October 2025, the AKT has 160 questions in 2 hours 40 minutes. That works out to one minute per question. There is no negative marking, so you should answer every question even if you are unsure.
The exam is sat at a Pearson VUE test centre. Since December 2025, you book directly through MyRCGP without a separate reservation step. Check the RCGP website for the booking window for each sitting.
Who can sit the AKT?
The AKT is open to GP trainees in ST2 or ST3. Most trainees sit it during ST2 to give themselves time for a resit if needed. The maximum number of attempts depends on when you entered GP training: four attempts if you were in training before August 2023, or six attempts if you started on or after August 2023. Your training programme director can advise on the best timing for your situation.
What does the AKT cover?
The AKT tests your knowledge across three broad areas. Around 80% of questions cover clinical medicine, 10% cover evidence-based practice and statistics, and 10% cover organisational and professional topics. Within those areas, the RCGP curriculum spans 32 topics.
AKT Navigator covers all 32 topics with questions, audio revision, and detailed explanations aligned to NICE CKS and the RCGP curriculum. You can read the full study guide or start revising free.
Exam dates sourced from RCGP.org.uk. Last reviewed March 2026.
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