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.

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.

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.

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

The marking guidelines given to assessors and the scoring sheet used in the practical exam are now available to all members. This is to help candidates understand the standards expected during the practical exam and aid their exam preparation. These documents, along with the references forms are available on the resources page.

For queries regarding the practical exam contact Laura Haworth and Hannah Williamson.