AVS Practical Exam

Who can take their Practical Exam?

The Practical exam is the final step in the process of gaining SVT accreditation as a clinical vascular scientist.

The following criteria must be met before applying to take the practical exam:

• Must be an ordinary member of the SVT.
• Be employed in the UK or Ireland to perform vascular diagnostic investigations.
• Have a Science degree.
• Have passed both theory exams within the last 5 years.
• Have performed at least 600 scans in each of the first three core modalities and 200 ABPIs.
• Have at least 3 years full time (or part time equivalent) diagnostic vascular scanning experience (in each modality).
• Have carried out at least 25 scans from each of core modalities in the preceding 3 months prior to applying to sit the practical exam.
• Must provide a reference from their current line manager, any previous line manager, internal examiner and a vascular surgeon.
• Not have failed the practical exam in the last 6 months.

What happens during a Practical Exam?

The practical exam may be taken at any time of the year, is taken in the candidate’s place of work and is expected to last 3-5 hours. 

There will be two examiners (both current AVS).

• one internal examiner appointed by the candidate (>1 year post-accreditation experience).
• one external examiner appointed by the SVT (>3 years post-accreditation experience).

Two external examiners may be appointed if there is not a suitably qualified or experienced internal examiner.

How do I apply?

If you wish to apply for a practical exam please visit the practical exam page.

What happens if I fail?

There is no limit on the number of times a candidate may apply to resit the practical exam however it must be taken within 5 years of passing the theory exams and at least 6 months after a previously failed practical exam.

For queries regarding the practical exam contact practicalexam@svtgbi.org.uk