Overview
The Saudi Medical Licensure Examination (SMLE) is the computer-based licensing exam for physicians, set by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) and booked through Prometric. Its pass score also matters for residency selection, because candidates who have passed may retake the exam to improve their mark.
Who can apply
You need one of the following:
a recognised primary degree (MBBS or equivalent) from an accredited health science programme
training that has started in the internship year
student status one year away from graduation
Saudi university and college students can sit the SMLE in their final undergraduate year.
Exam pattern
The SMLE has two test blocks of 100 questions each, with 120 minutes per block and a scheduled 30-minute break between them. Each question has four options and one best answer. Up to 10% of questions may be unscored pilot questions. The paper mixes recall questions with scenario questions that test interpretation, analysis, decision-making, reasoning and problem-solving.
Syllabus
The official blueprint lists the topics tested, with the number of questions for each. Its reference lists are grouped under Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Surgery, and Patient Safety, Preventive Medicine and Ethics. The distribution in the blueprint can vary by up to 5% in each category.
Marking and results
The pass score is 560 on a reporting scale of 200 to 800. Results are not instant: they are announced within 2 to 6 weeks of the end of the test window. Each candidate receives a statement of results and a feedback report comparing their performance with other test takers.
How to apply
Apply through the SCFHS e-application.
Once your application is processed, you receive a scheduling permit that shows your eligibility period.
Use the permit to book a test date on the Prometric website. Booking may not be open more than three months ahead, so check SCFHS for available test windows.
Take the exam at any SCFHS-approved Prometric centre, in Saudi Arabia or abroad.
Bring your scheduling permit and an unexpired passport or national or residence ID card. The name on your ID must match the permit exactly. Test centres open at 7:30 a.m., and you will not be admitted if you are more than 30 minutes late.
After the exam
Eligible candidates may take the SMLE up to four times a year, counted from the first attempt until a pass score is reached. You cannot sit twice in the same test window. After you pass, you may take two further attempts to improve your mark for residency selection. SCFHS classification and registration rules apply to candidates who fail the SMLE for two years after graduation.
Preparation tips
SCFHS offers an SMLE practice examination, drawn from the real item bank and built to the real blueprint. You can apply for it on the SCFHS website. Read the full blueprint before applying, since you must confirm you have read it at the time of application.
How many questions are in the SMLE?
Two blocks of 100 questions each, with 120 minutes per block.
What is the pass mark?
560 on a scale of 200 to 800.
How long do results take?
Within 2 to 6 weeks of the end of the test window.