Question 1

What training pathway do anaesthetists follow in the UK?

Accepted Answer

UK anaesthetic training typically starts with ACCS (Acute Common Care Stem) anaesthetics or direct CT1 entry, followed by ST3–ST7 higher training. The full pathway takes around 7 years post-Foundation, leading to a CCT in Anaesthetics. Many trainees also pursue dual accreditation with Intensive Care Medicine.

Question 2

What exams do anaesthetic trainees need to pass?

Accepted Answer

The primary exam is the FRCA (Fellowship of the Royal College of Anaesthetists), split into the Primary FRCA (basic sciences, taken during CT1–CT2) and the Final FRCA (clinical and applied knowledge, taken during higher training). Both have written and OSCE/SOE components.

Question 3

How competitive is anaesthetic training in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Anaesthetics has become highly competitive. The 2025 CT1 competition ratio was 12.56:1, a significant increase from previous years. ST4 higher training is less competitive at around 1.65:1. A strong portfolio including audit, teaching, and the Primary FRCA (or progress towards it) significantly strengthens applications.

Question 4

What courses are most useful for anaesthetic trainees?

Accepted Answer

Key courses include FRCA revision courses (both Primary and Final), airway management workshops, regional anaesthesia courses, simulation-based training, and courses covering the initial assessment of surgical patients. Many trainees also benefit from viva practice and mock OSCE sessions.

Courses & Resources for Anaesthetists

Upcoming Live Events for Anaesthetists

Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS®) Reverification Programme

Combined Two-Day Advanced POCUS Course

Advanced Level 2 Point of Care Ultrasound Course

Focused Echocardiography in the Emergency Department

Basic Ultrasound for Paediatrics (CACTUS) course

1-Day ECG Interpretation Course

Online Courses for Anaesthetists

Principles of Anatomy Course

Final FRCA Written Revision Course

Remote Supervision for Ultrasound Accreditation

Emergency Medicine VR Training

On-demand: Resuscitation Symposium 2026

MSK Ultrasound-guided Injections eLearning

Question Banks for Anaesthetists

2026 MSRA Question Bank

MSRA Question Bank

Anaesthetics CT1 Interview Question Bank

General Courses for All Doctors

Consultant Interview Online Course

Junior Doctor Crash Course

Teach The Teacher For Doctors

Medical Writing Career Kickstarter

PLAB Adaptive Question Bank

Pass PLAB-2

Frequently Asked Questions — Anaesthetics

Help Us Build Better Anaesthetics Resources

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