The MSRA produces a standardised score. What that score means for your career depends entirely on which specialty you are applying to and which deaneries you rank. A score that comfortably secures GP training in the North East may not even reach the shortlisting threshold for GP training in London.
Understanding the competitive landscape is essential for strategic deanery ranking.
How MSRA Scoring Works
The MSRA produces separate scores for Professional Dilemmas (SJT) and Clinical Problem Solving (CPS). These are combined equally (50/50) to produce a total MSRA score. Scores are standardised across sittings to ensure comparability.
Total MSRA scores typically range from approximately 200 to 600+, with the majority of candidates scoring between 350 and 500. The mean is typically around 400-430.
Competitive Scores by Specialty
GP Training (ST1). GP is the largest user of the MSRA and the most competitive by volume. Competitive scores vary significantly by deanery. Top-choice London deaneries (London, KSS, Thames Valley) typically require scores in the top quartile — approximately 480-520+. Northern and less subscribed deaneries may shortlist candidates with scores around 420-450. The most undersubscribed deaneries (some parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, rural Wales) may accept scores below 400.
Core Psychiatry Training (CT1). Generally less competitive than GP by MSRA score. Competitive scores typically in the 400-460 range for most deaneries. London may require higher.
Radiology (ST1). Highly competitive. MSRA scores are often combined with portfolio scores, but a strong MSRA is essential. Competitive total scores typically 460-500+.
Ophthalmology (ST1). Also highly competitive. Similar score requirements to radiology — approximately 460-500+ for competitive applications.
Public Health (ST1). Variable by year but generally competitive. Scores around 440-480 for most regions.
How to Interpret Your Score
After receiving your MSRA result, compare it against the competitive thresholds for your target specialty and deaneries. If your score is above the typical competitive threshold for your preferred deaneries, rank them confidently. If your score is near the threshold, include a mix of competitive and less competitive deaneries in your ranking. If your score is below the threshold, prioritise deaneries with historically lower thresholds and consider whether reapplying next year with better preparation would be strategically worthwhile.
How to Maximise Your Score
The candidates who achieve competitive MSRA scores share common preparation characteristics: they prepare for both papers equally (50% of the score is SJT — neglecting it halves your potential), they use 2+ Q-bank sources (a primary bank for volume and iatroX for adaptive weakness targeting), they complete 3-4+ full timed mocks, and they verify their clinical knowledge against UK guidelines using Ask iatroX.
Small score improvements have large career consequences. Moving from the 50th to the 75th percentile can be the difference between your first and fourth choice deanery. Every mark matters.