Small Animal Clinical Practice synoptic examination
From 2025 the University of Nottingham are excited to be providing a synoptic examination in Small Animal Clinical Practice on behalf of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). This examination allows candidates to bring together their learning across the different components of the CertAVP programme and demonstrate their knowledge across a whole subject area.
This synoptic examination is an assessment for which a candidate presents themselves to demonstrate their ability to apply their advanced knowledge in their subject area in practice. Success in the synoptic exam is a prerequisite to be able to apply to be an Advanced Practitioner (AP).
The synoptic examination will be organised and conducted by the University of Nottingham but will remain under direct supervision of the RCVS.
Pre-requisites
Candidates need to:
- be members of the RCVS (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons)
- have evidence of current MRCVS registration.
Proof is required from the candidate that they have successfully completed one of the the following CertAVP (Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice) module options:
Option 1
- A-FAVP.1 - Foundations of Advanced Veterinary Practice
- B-SAP.1 - Small Animal Practice
Three out of the five modules below:
- C-SACP.1 - Small Animal Clinical Practice - Core Medicine
- C-SACP.2 - Small Animal Clinical Practice - Core Surgery
- C-SACP.3 - Small Animal Clinical Practice - Emergency and Critical Care
- C-SACP.4 - Small Animal Clinical Practice - Dermatology
- C-SACP.5 - Small Animal Clinical Practice - Ophthalmology
Plus free choice:
- candidates may choose a B or C module from any discipline from the RCVS accredited modules.
Option 2
- A-FAVP.1 - Foundations of Advanced Veterinary Practice
- B-SAP.1 - Small Animal Practice
- three C modules in Small Animal Clinical subjects
- a B or C module from any discipline.
For candidates applying to sit this designation, any C modules taken from January 2024 must be from the Small Animal Clinical Practice modules. C modules completed prior to January 2024 can be from any small animal clinical subjects. However, candidates must be aware that the synoptic assessment is based primarily on the SACP modules.
Provisional exam dates
- Tuesday 10 June 2025
- Wednesday 11 June 2025
- Thursday 12 June 2025
Cost
The cost of the synoptic examination is £995.
Location
The synoptic examination is a structured oral examination held in person at the University of Nottingham’s Vet School. The Vet School is located on the Sutton Bonington Campus in Loughborough LE12 5RD.
Register your interest
To register your interest, email certavp@nottingham.ac.uk