This differs from the initial information we received from Surpass (prior to their full investigation) and hence, our corresponding initial communication, given in good faith, for which we apologise.
Surpass have advised us that analysis conducted by ProctorExam has confirmed a consistent pattern of video feed failures affecting multiple candidates using their online proctoring platform. They are continuing to investigate the issue with the highest priority with Surpass and will provide a full incident report that will be shared with us as soon as it is available. This is an unacceptable failure for which we are deeply sorry and apologise to all Rheumatology SCE candidates and the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR), with whom we are liaising closely.
The technical failure affected the proctoring of the examination and not the delivery or answering of questions, all of which took place as expected. All candidates who started the exam were able to complete it. However, we appreciate that any disruption can impact a candidate and we will be scrutinising the results closely to assess whether mitigations are necessary. The BSR have also shared some very helpful feedback from Rheumatology trainees who sat the exam last week which we are currently reviewing. 244 candidates were registered for the SCE exam. 232 candidates sat and completed the exam, of whom 134 have so far reported technical difficulties. Four candidates were unable to start and have been refunded the exam fee.
Ensuring that a reliable, safe and secure examination delivery service is of paramount importance to the Federation. It is imperative that candidates have trust in the system that we utilise and so we will work with Surpass to conduct a full and detailed investigation to get to the root cause of last week’s issue. We will take whatever measures necessary so that future examinations can be delivered with the confidence of everyone involved.
As previously communicated in our statement on Tuesday 30 June 2025, we are arranging an extra diet of the Rheumatology Specialty Certificate Exam for later this year. This will be available not only for candidates who had to withdraw due to the technical issues, but also for any other candidates who did not experience these issues but failed the examination. Further details about this additional diet will be announced as soon as possible.
Again, we apologise unreservedly for the stress and concern this has caused candidates sitting the Rheumatology SCE.