How long is the Prescribing Safety Assessment? Timing, question breakdown & what to expect

For the majority of candidates, sitting the Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) can be a daunting experience. Many admit to struggling most with the time pressures – ensuring that they answer all 60 questions within the given time. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful blog, to take you through the exam timings, question layout and what to expect before tackling the exam. 

How long is the PSA exam? 

The time allocated for completing the PSA exam is 120 minutes (2 hours), unless you qualify for special dispensation. Candidates can use this time however they wish, but it’s advisable to spend more time on the questions which score highest. More information about the questions and their scores is outlined below, so keep reading to find out more!  

What score is allocated to each question in the PSA exam?

The PSA exam is made up of eight distinct question types arranged in an order determined by the assessment blueprint. Each question type has a specific number of marks allocated to it, based on the competencies being tested. We’ve summarised the question types and their allocated marks below to help you decide which questions require more of your time: 

  • Prescribing (80 marks) – 8 questions with each question earning 10 marks. 
  • Prescription Review (32 marks) – 8 questions with each question earning 4 marks.
  • Planning Management (16 marks) – 8 questions with each question earning 2 marks.
  • Providing Information (12 marks) – 6 questions with each question earning 2 marks. 
  • Calculation Skills (16 marks) – 8 questions with each question earning 2 marks.
  • Adverse Drug Reactions (16 marks) – 8 questions with each question earning 2 marks.
  • Drug Monitoring (16 marks) – 8 questions with each question earning 2 marks.
  • Data Interpretation (12 marks) – 6 questions with each question earning 2 marks.

What else can I expect when sitting the PSA exam? 

Time keeping is far from the only skill being tested during the PSA, in fact, while candidates might see this as their biggest challenge, the exam tests a wide range of prescribing competencies expected of a final year medical student, such as managing adverse drug reactions, calculating drug doses and communicating important information to the patient. 

While answering the questions, you’ll also be expected to reference resources, specifically the BNF. Depending on whether you are in the UK or not, you may have access to the Medicines Complete BNF, BNFc or NICE BNF and BNFc (UK only). Being able to effectively navigate these resources to find relevant information will help you better manage your time, so it’s key to get familiar with them beforehand.

How can I make sure I’m fully prepared for the PSA exam?

Preparation is key when it comes to taking the PSA exam! Luckily, there are a number of different resources available to candidates to help you pass the first time. We’ve highlighted some of the main resources available to candidates below:

Official PSA practice papers 

The most obvious place to find resources and practice materials is on the official PSA website. This will also be where you’ll come to sit the real exam, so getting familiar with the platform can go a long way in your preparation. 

PSA Prep

Free to access, PSA Prep includes nine eLearning resources specifically designed to aid your exam preparation. Created as a complete guide to the PSA exam, these resources offer tips and tricks written by prescribing experts on the best way to answer each question item and how to tackle the exam with ease. 

UK Foundation Programme webpage 

More recently, the UK Foundation Programme has brought out a useful webpage which signposts resources created by different institutions. Get access to videos, slides and supplementary materials designed to help you prepare for the PSA and manage your time effectively. 

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your upcoming PSA exam. But remember, you have only 120 minutes to complete it, so effective time management could be the difference between a pass and a fail. Good luck! 

Pass the Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) first time: Your ultimate preparation guide

Passing the UK PSA exam on your very first attempt isn’t about luck, it’s about smart, focused preparation. In this blog, we’ve put together a handy guide on how to approach your PSA exam with confidence and accuracy.

1. Get to know the exam inside and out

Begin by mastering the PSA’s structure. It features eight distinct question items: Prescribing, Prescription Review, Planning Management, Providing Information, Calculation Skills, Adverse Drug Reactions, Drug Monitoring, and Data Interpretation. Each question item has its own scoring allocation and demands. Understanding which sections carry the most marks is vital for strategically allocating your time and focus. 

2. Harness the power of PSA Prep eLearning

A great way to deepen your understanding of the PSA’s structure is by accessing the free PSA Prep eLearning modules from the BPS Assessment Learner Portal. These nine sessions guide you through the structure of exam, the skills expected, what examiners are looking for, and how to avoid common pitfalls. 

3. Get speedy with the BNF

Efficiently using the BNF resources during the exam can save you precious minutes. You may have access to both Medicines Complete BNF and BNFc, and the NICE BNF and BNFc (if in the UK). Familiarise yourself with both resources, focusing on navigating through different sections and finding the information you need effectively. 

4. Practise with official practice papers

Use the built-in practice papers from your exam account. These should give detailed feedback across all eight question types, helping you build speed, accuracy, and confidence.

5. Simulate exam conditions with timed practise

Time pressure during the exam is a factor that many trainees struggle with. Emulate the real PSA by tackling practice papers within a strict time limit. This helps you identify where you’re losing time and which question types need extra attention. 

6. Focus your revision strategy

Because not all questions weigh the same, tailor your revision:

  • Prioritise sections 1 & 2; Prescribing (80 marks) and Prescription Review (32 marks).
  • Reinforce weaker areas like calculation skills or data interpretation.
  • Use each practice session to review mistakes and strengthen areas of uncertainty.

7. Reinforce safe prescribing practice

The PSA is not just about passing an exam; it’s about cultivating safe, effective prescribing habits. Use study materials to focus on dose accuracy, monitoring requirements, adverse reaction recognition, and patient communication skills. All of which add up to ensure you are the safest and most competent prescriber you can be. 

8. Use a structured study plan

Build a schedule that dedicates time to each question section, includes regular timed practice, and allows for progress review. This disciplined approach ensures consistent improvement without last-minute cramming. 

9. Seek other trusted sources of preparatory materials

The UK Foundation Programme has started a signposting site aimed at resident doctors taking the PSA, but these are also very useful for undergraduates:  https://foundationprogramme.nhs.uk/curriculum/prescribing-safety-assessment-psa/preparation-resources-for-sitting-the-psa/

10. Stay calm, confident, and positively prepared

Your mindset matters. Approaching the exam with optimism and trusting in your preparation can make all the difference. Thorough revision fosters confidence! 

TLDR: Key Takeaways for Passing the PSA Exam on Your First Go

Strategy Focus Why It Matters
Know the PSA structure Helps you allocate time to higher-value sections
Use PSA Prep modules Builds familiarity and exam strategy
Master your prescribing practice Ensures accuracy on exam day
Practice under timed conditions Boosts efficiency and stress management
Review performance Pinpoints weak areas before they cost marks
Seek trusted resources Builds on your foundations