The physician associate national examination (PANE) is the means by which qualified physician associates can demonstrate their readiness to practice in the UK.
From September 2025 the PANE becomes the physician associate registration assessment (PARA) to reflect the introduction of the PA registration assessment content map. The overall structure of the PARA will reflect that currently utilised in the PANE.
The assessment is delivered by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) on behalf of the General Medical Council (GMC). It comprises a knowledge-based assessment (KBA) and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Candidates must pass both the KBA and OSCE to be eligible to apply for registration with the GMC.
From December 2025 the RCP will publish an annual performance report which will be freely available on this webpage.
For all queries relating to the administration of the PANE and/or PARA please email PAexams@rcp.ac.uk. For further information regarding the regulation of physician associates please see the GMC website.