Questions for each paper were selected from the relevant question banks, each of which contains a large number of items and covers a wide range of the FICM training curriculum, including all domains, up to the end of stage 2 training. Question selection is reviewed to ensure minimal overlap in curriculum areas for those candidates sitting both the OSCE and SOE on the same day.
A large-scale trial of a proposed new marking scheme for the SOE was undertaken. This scheme awards marks individually for each of the five stems in each SOE question, rather than marking the question as a whole. The data from this will be analysed before a decision to change the mark scheme is taken, and candidates will be informed on any such proposed change via the FICM website. The proposed marking scheme will not change the candidates’ exam experience.
