# DHA Medical Licensing Examination Exam Pattern Overview
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The DHA Medical Licensing Examination, conducted by the Dubai Health Authority through Prometric, is a crucial step for doctors (MBBS or equivalent) aiming to practice in the Emirate of Dubai. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the exam pattern, including its structure, sections, and marking scheme.
DHA Medical exam pattern 2026 at a glance
The DHA Medical Licensing Examination is a computer-based test designed to assess the knowledge and skills of medical practitioners. Here are the key features of the exam pattern:
- Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT) via Prometric
- Duration: 180 minutes (3 hours)
- Total Questions: Approximately 150 questions
- Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer, no negative marking
- Eligibility: MBBS or recognised medical degree with typically 2+ years of post-internship experience
This structured approach ensures that candidates are evaluated on their ability to apply medical knowledge in a practical context.
Sections and duration
The DHA Medical exam is divided into multiple sections, each focusing on different areas of medical knowledge. Candidates can expect the following:
- Clinical Knowledge: This section assesses the candidate's understanding of clinical practices and medical principles.
- Basic Medical Sciences: Questions in this area focus on fundamental medical concepts, including anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry.
- Public Health and Ethics: Candidates will be tested on their knowledge of public health policies and ethical practices in medicine.
The total duration for the exam is 180 minutes, allowing candidates ample time to navigate through the various sections. Each section is timed, ensuring that candidates manage their time effectively throughout the exam.
Question types and marking scheme
The DHA Medical Licensing Examination primarily consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Here’s a breakdown of the question types and the marking scheme:
- Question Types: The exam includes clinical scenarios, direct questions, and case studies that require critical thinking and application of knowledge.
- Marking Scheme: Each correct answer awards +1 point, while incorrect answers do not incur negative marking. This encourages candidates to attempt all questions without the fear of losing marks for wrong answers.
This marking scheme is designed to reward candidates for their knowledge and preparation, making it essential for aspiring doctors to engage in comprehensive study and practice.
Negative marking explained
One of the advantages of the DHA Medical Licensing Examination is the absence of negative marking. This means that candidates are not penalised for incorrect answers, which can alleviate some of the pressure during the exam. Candidates are encouraged to attempt all questions, as every correct answer contributes positively to their overall score.
Sectional vs overall cut-offs
While the DHA Medical exam does not implement negative marking, it is crucial to understand the cut-off criteria:
- Overall Cut-off: Candidates must achieve a minimum score to pass the exam, which is determined by the Dubai Health Authority and may vary each year.
- Sectional Cut-off: Depending on the exam structure, there may be specific cut-off scores for individual sections to ensure a well-rounded knowledge base across all areas.
Understanding these cut-off criteria is vital for candidates to strategise their preparation effectively. It is advisable to aim for a strong performance across all sections rather than focusing solely on one area.
Language and medium options
The DHA Medical Licensing Examination is conducted in English, which is the primary language of instruction for medical education in Dubai. Candidates should be proficient in medical English to effectively understand and respond to the exam questions. It is recommended that candidates practice their medical terminology and comprehension skills to ensure they are well-prepared for the exam’s language requirements.
Computer-based vs pen-paper details
As a computer-based test, the DHA Medical examination offers several advantages over traditional pen-and-paper formats:
- Immediate Feedback: Candidates receive immediate feedback on their performance, allowing for a more efficient assessment process.
- User-Friendly Interface: The CBT format is designed to be intuitive, with clear navigation and instructions, making it easier for candidates to focus on answering questions.
- Flexible Scheduling: The computer-based format allows for flexible scheduling and availability at various test centres.
Candidates are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the CBT format before the exam day to enhance their comfort level and performance. Mock tests on PractiseExam.com can provide valuable practice in a simulated exam environment, helping candidates to adjust to the computer-based testing format.
In conclusion, the DHA Medical Licensing Examination is a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate the readiness of medical practitioners to practice in Dubai. Understanding the exam pattern, including its sections, marking scheme, and structure, is essential for effective preparation. Candidates should leverage available resources, including mock tests and study materials, to enhance their readiness for this important examination.